Biological Science Technician (Wildlife and Fisheries)

Positions are concerned with research, conservation, and management of fish and wildlife, or determination, establishment, and application of the biological facts, principles, methods, techniques, and procedures necessary for the conservation, management, and control of fish and wildlife.

Major Duties:

• Performs routine and recurring testing of collected samples. Records all data collected and ensures adequate quality control. Makes field observations of natural resource conditions. Provides results to higher-level specialists for analysis.
• Provides logistical support and area orientation.
• Inventories, calibrates and/or orders equipment and supplies.

In addition to the above duties, GS 05 duties include:

• Utilizes a variety of computer programs to compile, reduce, store, retrieve, and report data and other resource management information, including natural science research and long-term monitoring projects.
• Installs, operates, and maintains resource management equipment.
• Prepares a wide variety of recurring correspondence, internal reports, and other documents.
• Establishes, updates and maintains office records and assists in the efficient operation of the office.

In addition to ALL the above duties, GS 06 duties include:

• Leads fish and/or wildlife censuses and surveys and assembles basic information on fish and/or wildlife populations.
• Uses standard statistical methods and procedures in performing routine and recurring testing of the field data collected.
• Leads field work which requires the ability to accurately distinguish wildlife by sight and sound.
• May assist state biologists in the capture of wildlife, applying visual and radio tags, and gathering physiological and spatial data.
• Enters and retrieves data from Geographic Information System (GIS) and/or other information management systems.
• Assists in the preparation of reports, plans, and guidelines. Recommends modifications to field activity procedures.
• Provides advice, assistance, and training to lower graded technicians, volunteers in gathering field data, including proper and safe handling of equipment and tools and operation of vehicles and/or watercraft.

Physical Demands: The work requires physical exertion as a regular and recurring walking, hiking, or climbing over wet, rough, uneven, or rocky surfaces; bending, crouching, stooping, lifting or reaching to observe, collect, or record field data, or in some situations the work may require physical exertion to snorkeling (up to 6 hours a day) or operate a boat. Heavy items (e.g., equipment and packs up to 50 pounds) must be lifted and carried on a routine basis.

Working Conditions: The work is performed in an office or outdoors. The work performed involves regular and recurring exposure to extreme weather conditions and terrain, poisonous plants, biting insects, and wild animals.

Applicants must be at least (1)18 years old or (2) at least 16 years old and: (a) Have graduated from high school or been awarded a certificate equivalent to graduating from high school; or (b) Have completed a formal vocational training program; or (c) Have received a statement from school authorities agreeing with their preference for employment rather than continuing their education; or (d) Be currently enrolled in a secondary school and either work only during school vacation periods or work part-time during the school year under a formal student employment program.

Starting at $18.98 Per Hour (GS 4-6)