Fisheries Project Assistant (Biological Science Assistant)

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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.

Hiring a seasonal position with anticipated duration of April 1, 2026 – June 30, 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).

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 Fisheries Project Assistant (Biological Science Assistant) with the Ocean Salmon/Columbia River Program (OSCRP) in Clackamas, Oregon, you will help conduct studies important to management of fisheries resources in the Columbia River basin and Oregon in general. Duties include:

• Collect and record information on fish and fish habitat in the field:

  • Deploy various fishing gear, such as boat electrofishing equipment, gill nets, set lines, seines, fish traps, and artificial substrates.

  • Identify fish species, measure, tag, and sample fish. Collect biological samples such as scales, fin spines, gut contents, gonads, and eggs. Preserve samples for lab analysis.

  • Record biological data and habitat data on data sheets and handheld computers.

  • Drive agency vehicles to tow 26 ft boats to and from field sampling and for maintenance.

  • Tow, launch, and operate boats up to 26 ft in length.

• Laboratory, data and supply maintenance:

  • Enter accurate and precise data into spreadsheets and databases with line-by-line verification

  • Assist with laboratory analysis and biological sample preparation/processing

  • Maintain and perform minor repairs on equipment such as vehicles and boats, mending nets, checking oil level of vehicles, changing sparkplugs and oil on inboard and outboard boat motors. Clean boats, trucks, and sampling equipment

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.

This position requires a Boater Education Certificate obtained through the Oregon State Marine Board within the first thirty days of appointment.

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

Clearly describe how you meet the minimum qualifications and desired attributes in your application materials. Your application materials will determine if you are selected to move forward in the selection process. Please include detailed work and education history.

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:

• Experience conducting fish surveys, identifying adult fish species (especially salmonids)

• Experience collecting biological samples from fish and accurately recording field data

• Experience operating a powerboat

• Experience trailering vessels or other equipment

• Experience with lab protocol and microscopes

• Experience recording and analyzing biological data

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

Your application must include both a resume and a cover letter. The cover letter should be no longer than two pages and must:

• Express your interest in the position

• Address your qualifications in relation to the Desired Attributes listed above

Failure to include a cover letter or to address the requested information may result in your application being removed from further consideration.

APPLICATION DETAILS AND INSTRUCTIONS

• Questions about the positions? Please contact [email protected]

• 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

• 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%

• 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

• Reasonable accommodation 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

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 Clackamas, 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

• 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 | Pay Equity |

Ready to Relocate to Oregon | Carpool Matching Tool: Get There Oregon

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