Fisheries Project Assistant; Biological Science Assistant

Overview

Position Title: Fisheries Project Assistant (Biological Science Assistant)

Initial Posting Date: 01/29/2026

Final date to receive applications: 02/05/2026

Agency: Department of Fish and Wildlife

Salary Range: $3,429 - $4,023

Position Type: Employee

Job Description: Fisheries Project Assistant (Biological Science Assistant) with the Ocean Salmon/Columbia River Program (OSCRP) in Clackamas, Oregon. Duties include field data collection, laboratory data processing, and equipment maintenance to support management of fisheries resources in the Columbia River basin and Oregon broadly. A Boater Education Certificate is required within the first thirty days of appointment. The position is seasonal with anticipated duration April 1, 2026 – June 30, 2026 (dates can vary based on project needs and funding).

• Collect and record information on fish and fish habitat in the field, including deploying gear (boat electrofishing equipment, gill nets, set lines, seines, fish traps, artificial substrates), identifying species, measuring, tagging, and sampling fish, and preserving samples for lab analysis.
• Record biological and habitat data on data sheets and handheld computers.
• Drive agency vehicles to tow boats to and from field sites and for maintenance; operate boats up to 26 ft.
• Laboratory, data, and supply maintenance: enter data into spreadsheets/databases, assist with laboratory analysis and sample processing, and perform minor repairs on equipment and vessels.

• Maintain and repair equipment (vehicles, boats, nets), clean boats, trucks, and sampling gear.

Note:

These statements describe the general nature and level of work and are not exhaustive. A Boater Education Certificate is required within the first thirty days of appointment.

Minimum qualifications: There are no formal minimum qualifications listed; however, preferred experience and attributes include the following. Applicants with these skills may receive preference during interview selection:

• Experience conducting fish surveys and identifying adult fish species (especially salmonids)
• Experience collecting biological samples from fish and 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
• Fisheries or Wildlife Science degree or related degree in biological/ecological sciences (pursuing or completed)

Your application must include a resume and a cover letter. The cover letter should be no longer than two pages and must express interest, address qualifications relative to the desired attributes above, and include detailed work and education history.

• Questions about the position? Please contact Jadon.
  
  R.Snauergon.gov
• Ensure your application materials accurately reflect your skills, experience, and education. No materials accepted after the deadline.
• The State of Oregon does not request age or birth dates during the application.
• The recruitment may be used to fill current or future vacancies.
• Salary listed is non-PERS qualifying; if the candidate is PERS qualifying, the salary will reflect an additional 6.95%.
• State of Oregon employees must apply through their Workday account.
• Save a copy of this job announcement for reference; it may not be available after the deadline.
• Reasonable accommodation for interviews will be provided upon request to individuals with disabilities.
• The posting closes at 11:59 PM (PDT/PST) on the close date. After submission, respond to two questionnaires related to public records requests and veterans’ preference as part of the application process.
• First-time applicants may consider Work Source Oregon resources.
• For questions about applying, contact the ODFW Human Resources office at .

ODFW is committed to a diverse and inclusive workforce. Learn more about the agency through provided videos and resources. Oregon offers extensive outdoor opportunities and a high quality of life.

• The position is represented by SEIU and subject to the collective bargaining agreement. Pay and benefits may change without notice.
• Finalists are subject to criminal history and motor vehicle checks.
• Within three days of hire, applicants must complete the I-9 form; ODFW participates in E-Verify and does not sponsor visas.
• Eligible Veterans and Oregon National Guard service members receive preference; more information is available through Veterans Resources.

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