Aquatic Biologist 2

About the role

Would you enjoy a career focused on protecting Pennsylvania’s aquatic habitats by using science to guide important environmental decisions? The Aquatic Biologist 2 position with the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) offers the exciting chance to safeguard waterways and support environmental decision-making. Within this role, you will evaluate aquatic habitats, review permit applications, and help ensure compliance with state regulations. This position allows you to use your expertise in the science field to make real impacts on natural resources throughout the Commonwealth. If you are someone who enjoys fieldwork, analysis, and collaboration, we want you on our team!

Responsibilities

• Field Investigations: Conduct aquatic habitat studies and prepare reports documenting environmental conditions
• Permit Analysis: Evaluate water obstruction and encroachment applications using research, surveys, and regulatory criteria
• Species Consultation: Coordinate with agencies to resolve issues related to threatened and endangered species
• Enforcement Support: Prepare notices, assist legal staff, and participate in settlement discussions for violations
• Technical Guidance: Provide recommendations on mitigation, restoration, and regulatory compliance
• Data Entry: Use Department systems to input accurate information for tracking and reporting

Qualifications

Minimum Experience and Training Requirements:

• One year as an Aquatic Biologist 1 (Commonwealth job title or equivalent Federal Government job title, as determined by the Office of Administration); or
• One year of professional experience in aquatic biology or water pollution biology and 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.

Special Requirement: This position requires possession of a valid motor vehicle license.

Other Requirements: You must meet the PA residency requirement.

Pay

Selected candidates who are new to employment with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania will begin employment at the starting annual salary of $60,538.00 (before taxes).

Schedule

Full-time employment. Work hours are 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday‑Friday, with a 30‑minute lunch.

Telework: You may have the opportunity to work from home (telework) part‑time, up to 3 days per week. 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 Pittsburgh. The ability to telework is subject to change at any time.