Biological Science Assistant (Wildlife Research Technician) Four positions

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Job Description:

Help the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife fulfill its mission: To protect and enhance Oregon's fish and wildlife and their habitats for use and enjoyment by present and future generations.

Note: Effective Feb. 1, 2026, the compensation plan for this position will be increased to reflect a Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) of 2.5%. The salary listed in this posting does not reflect the COLA.

We are hiring for four full-time, seasonal positions.  

• Two positions are located in Lakeview, Oregon, starting May 15, 2026 through August 14, 2026.

• Two positions are located in John Day, Oregon, starting May 15, 2026 through August 14, 2026.

(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).

What you will do:

You will collect data for mule deer research projects and conduct data collection efforts for a mule deer research project. Duties include:

• Navigate with 4x4 trucks and ATVs to field locations

• Capture mule deer fawns and monitor their survival

• Determine cause of death for mule deer

• Deploy trail cameras

• Collect biological data from mule deer

• Monitor signals from telemetry collars on mule deer

• Data management and entry

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 Lakeview position details, duties, and working conditions, please review the position description located here.

For a full review of the John Day position details, duties, and working conditions, please review the position description located here.

What we are looking for:

Minimum Qualifications:

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:

• ATV experience

• Experience conducting field work in remote settings

• Experience with collecting biological data

• Data management and entry experience

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

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!

Application Details and Instructions 

• Your application helps determine your starting salary. Be sure it accurately and thoroughly reflects your skills, experience, and education even if you don’t believe it directly relates to the position. We cannot accept any additional application materials submitted after the application deadline.

• The State of Oregon does not request or require your age, date of birth, attendance or graduation dates from an educational institution during the application process.

• 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.

• 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%.

• 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.

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

• 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

The Department of Fish and Wildlife (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.

Additional benefits include:

• Work/life balance, 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.

Additional Details:

• 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. Driving is required for this position. 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.

• Veterans’ and Oregon National Guard preference: Eligible Veterans and Oregon National Guard servicemembers (current and former) who meet the qualifications of the position will be awarded candidate 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

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