Biological Science Assistant

Hiring three seasonal positions with the anticipated duration of July 15, 2025 – November 15, 2025

Note: These are estimated dates. Length of season(s) may be shortened or extended depending on project needs, funding, or factors beyond the project’s control.

MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN OREGON’S NATURAL RESOURCES!

Opportunity Awaits, Apply Today!  We especially encourage students, early career professionals, and anyone interested in a career in fish, wildlife, and natural resources, to apply! Come learn and train with ODFW and help us fulfill our mission: To protect and enhance Oregon's fish and wildlife and their habitats for use and enjoyment by present and future generations.

As a Biological Science Assistant (Field Assistant) in Springfield, Oregon, you will assist in the implementation of the Upper Willamette Bull Trout Project. 

This position will assist field surveys to monitor bull trout, cutthroat trout, and spring Chinook salmon as well as perform duties associated with the reintroduction of bull trout to sites within the Middle Fork Willamette Basin and potential reintroduction to the North Santiam Basin.

Duties include:

Conduct snorkeling and electrofishing surveys

Conduct spawning surveys

Capture bull trout by angling and trapping (minnow, rotary screw, and weir traps)

Operate electronic fish detection systems

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. They are not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties required.

For a full review of the position details, duties and working conditions, click here.

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR

Minimum qualifications are not established for this position; however, we are seeking applicants with the following experience or skills. Preference for interviews may be given to candidates with these skills and background:

Snorkeling experience

Experience conducting electrofishing surveys

Experience conducting spawning surveys

Experience conducting field work

Data management and entry experience

Experience with carnivore captures

Anyone who has or is in pursuit of a Fisheries or Wildlife Science degree or related degree in biological/ecological sciences.

APPLICATION DETAILS AND INSTRUCTIONS

For questions about these positions, please contact Steven Starcevich at steven.j.starcevich@odfw.oregon.gov

The salary listed is the non-PERS qualifying salary range. If the successful candidate is PERS qualifying, the salary range will reflect an additional 6.95%

This recruitment will be used to establish a list of qualified people to fill the current vacancy and may be used to fill other vacancies as they occur

State of Oregon Employees, must apply through their employee Workday account.

Please save a copy of this job announcement for reference, as it is not available for you to view after the announcement deadline

First time applying to the State of Oregon? Consider utilizing a WorkSource Oregon Resource event!

Reasonable accommodations for interviews will be provided upon request to individuals with disabilities

The job posting closes at 11:59 PM (PDT/PST) on the close date. After you submit your application, be sure to respond to the two questionnaires relating to public records requests and veterans’ preference immediately following your submittal. These questions are necessary to complete the application process

If you are experiencing difficulty applying for this position or have questions, please contact the ODFW Human Resources office at 503.947.6051

BENEFITS OF JOINING OUR TEAM

ODFW is dedicated to cultivating a diverse and inclusive workforce as we strive to represent and better serve our neighboring communities. Our most important asset is our employees, and each person brings unique, different, and important contributions to the workplace and community we serve.  With Oregon’s changing demographics, a workforce that reflects this change will make us stronger and create an opportunity for better decision making.

To learn more about the agency and the work we do, view the following video at https://myodfw.com/about

If you enjoy the outdoors, Oregon is the place for you. We have glaciated mountain peaks to the east, the Pacific Ocean to the west and the massive Columbia River Gorge to the north. You can fish 365 days a year, and there is hunting for big game, waterfowl, and game birds. The Oregon coast attracts thousands of people who clam, crab and fish in the ocean for halibut, salmon, and tuna. The outdoor opportunities are endless when it comes to fish and wildlife in Oregon! Oregon is known for their vineyards, breweries, and adventures for the whole family to enjoy. To learn more about the department, the work we do, and see our beautiful state, view the following video at https://youtu.be/8CjDPiPMGAk

Additional benefits include:

11 paid holidays a year and a competitive benefits package

Advancement and learning opportunities that will help grow your career with the State of Oregon

Live, work and play in Springfield, Oregon

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

The employee in this position will be represented by the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) and will be subject to all terms and conditions of the collective bargaining agreement. Pay and benefits on all job listings may change without notice

Finalists are subject to both a criminal history and motor vehicles check. Adverse background and/or driving information may disqualify you from further consideration

Within three days of hire, applicants will be required to complete the U.S. Department Homeland Security's I-9 form confirming authorization to work in the United States. ODFW participates in E-Verify. ODFW is not able to support VISA sponsorships

Eligible veterans who meet the qualifications will be given veterans' preference. For more information, please visit Veterans Resources

Helpful Links & Resources

How to Set Job Alerts | Workday Applicant FAQ | What You Need to Know to Get the Job

Oregon Job Opportunities Webpage | Classification and Compensation | Pay Equity

More information about our agency can be found on our social media accounts and at myodfw.com and http://www.dfw.state.or.us/

The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer