Aquatic Biologist

THE POSITION

If you have a strong passion for the environment and want to begin a fulfilling and impactful journey as an Aquatic Biologist 1, this may be the opportunity you have been searching for! The Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is excited to welcome a dedicated professional who is ready to dive into this rewarding field and gain valuable experience. Here, you will play a key role in assisting with the planning and administration of the Black Fly Suppression Program.

Together, we can work towards protecting Pennsylvania's precious environment and ensuring a sustainable future for all!

As an Aquatic Biologist 1, you will support the Program Aquatic Biologist Supervisor and team members in the operation of the Black Fly Suppression Program. Your responsibilities will include routine collection of biological samples to determine the presence of black fly larvae in streams and rivers, assistance with black fly treatment operations, and conducting post treatment evaluations. Work will primarily be conducted within the Clarion River, Allegheny River, and associated tributaries with occasional travel to other regions.

Interested in learning more? Additional details regarding this position can be found in the position description.

• Full-time, limited-term employment lasting approximately 6 to 9 months, without benefits.
• Work hours are 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Monday‑Friday, with a 30‑minute lunch.
• This position requires travel to various assigned geographical sites.
• Telework:
  You may have the opportunity to work from home (telework) full-time. In order to telework, you must have a securely configured high‑speed internet connection and work from an approved location inside Pennsylvania. If you are unable to telework, you will have the option to report to the headquarters office in Meadville. The ability to telework is subject to change at any time.
  
  Additional details may be provided during the interview.
• Salary:
  Selected candidates who are new to employment with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania will begin employment at the starting annual salary of $51,971.00 (before taxes).
• You will receive further communication regarding this position via email. Check your email, including spam/junk folders, for these notices.

• A bachelor's degree with a major in a biological science, natural science, environmental science, or natural resource management, including or supplemented by six college credits in freshwater aquatic biology, aquatic ecology, aquatic botany, water pollution biology, entomology, limnology, or closely related aquatic science coursework; or
• An equivalent combination of experience and training that includes six college credits in freshwater aquatic biology, aquatic ecology, aquatic botany, water pollution biology, entomology, limnology, or closely related aquatic science coursework.
• Applicants will be considered to have met the educational requirements once they are within 3 months of graduating with a qualifying degree/credits.

• This position requires possession of an active motor vehicle license.

• You must meet the PA residency requirement. For more information on ways to meet PA residency requirements, follow the link and click on Residency Guidelines.
• You must be able to perform essential job functions.

• Resumes, cover letters, and similar documents will not be reviewed, and the information contained therein will not be considered for the purposes of determining your eligibility for the position. Information to support your eligibility for the position must be provided on the application (i.e., relevant, detailed experience/education).
• If you are claiming education in your answers to the supplemental application questions, you must attach a copy of your college transcripts for your claim to be accepted toward meeting the minimum requirements. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable.
• Your application must be submitted by the posting closing date. Late applications and other required materials…