Biologist

Cramer Fish Sciences (CFS) is seeking a Biologist to support a variety of field, laboratory and analytical projects under the guidance of senior staff. This position is designed to build foundational technical skills in field science, data collection, and scientific processes while contributing to high-quality project execution. Position Type: Full Time FLSA: Non-Exempt This role receives general supervision from assigned business leader(s). This position does not have formal supervisory responsibilities but will provide mentorship and task delegation for technicians. Essential Functions The essential duties of this position include, but are not limited to, the following elements this role will perform independently or under general supervision: Implement field protocols and collect high-quality biological, geomorphic, and environmental data Conduct fish trapping, tagging, visual surveys, and invertebrate collectionAssist with data entry, management, digitization, and basic analysis using GIS, R, or similar toolsMaintain spatial datasets and contribute to data visualization tasksSupport development of work plans, safety plans, and monitoring protocolsAssist with literature reviews, permit applications, and drafting technical sectionsSupport project logistics including scheduling, equipment preparation, and field coordinationAssist with communicating updates to clients when appropriateProvide field observation support during restoration construction under guidance from senior staff Non-essential Functions The additional functions of this position are standard across all roles and support overall organizational effectiveness. These include: Maintain accurate, complete, and organized electronic and physical filesMaintain availability to other staff members for consultation, education, and cross-trainingParticipate in the performance appraisal process, team meetings, and office initiatives as requiredPerform other duties as assigned Education And Experience BS in biology, fisheries science, or closely related field with 3+ years of experience OR MS in biology, fisheries science, or closely related field with 2+ years relevant experienceValid Driver's License with acceptable driving record and comprehensive personal auto insurance. EQUIPMENT OPERATED Field Sampling/Monitoring Equipment: Backpacking gear, Binoculars/spotting scope, Camera/GoPro, DNA/eDNA collection tools, Electro fishing gear, Fishing gear, Fish husbandry equipment, Flowmeter, Macroinvertebrate collection gear, measuring boards/scales, Microscopes/forceps/pipettes, Snorkel gear, Tagging gear, Temperature/pressure loggers, Trapping gear, Water quality equipmentSurveying/Geospatial Tools: Drone, Echo-sounder, GPS, GIS, RTK equipment, Total StationBoating/Field Safety Equipment: Boats/trailers, Dry suit/wetsuit, Inflatable kayaks/rafts, Life vests, Rafting gear, Hard hats/vests, LaddersPrograms/Software: Microsoft Office 365 (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint), R/PythonOffice Equipment: Standard office equipment such as computers/tablets, printers, scanners, and telephones KNOWLEDGE Knowledge of the scientific method and its application in field experimentsWorking understanding of hydrology, habitat restoration concepts, and relevant biological regulations Foundational understanding of watershed processes and stream geomorphologyUnderstanding of how biological and physical data support restoration assessments and project designBasic familiarity with regulatory frameworks affecting aquatic resourcesKnowledge of data management and QA/QC principles for scientific datasetsFamiliarity with GIS-based mapping and spatial data conceptsStrong command of English usage, spelling and grammar clear, professional communicationUnderstanding of professional phone, email, and virtual communication etiquetteFamiliarity with modern office systems, equipment, and digital communication toolsProficiency with Microsoft 365 applications and the ability to learn new software efficientlyBasic understanding of mathematical principles relevant to operational tasksAwareness of workplace safety practices and principles that support a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment Skills Advanced skills in identifying and monitoring aquatic and riparian organismsStrong critical thinking and data analysis capabilitiesAbility to independently carry out habitat and geomorphic field measurements with high accuracyAbility to prepare organized field documentation and summarize preliminary resultsProficiency creating basic maps or figures using ArcGIS, QGIS, or similar toolsSkill in conducting literature reviews or compiling background information for technical tasksUse computers and digital systems effectively to research, enter, and maintain accurate informationCommunicate clearly and professionally in both written and verbal formats with colleagues, clients, and external partnersBuild and maintain positive working relationships through active listening, collaboration, and respectType efficiently and accurately (minimum 50 words per minute)Organize and prioritize work to meet deadlines in a dynamic environmentApply problem-solving and critical thinking to improve processes and respond to challenges Abilities Ability to transition from field execution to early-stage scientific interpretationAbility to integrate biological, geomorphic and environmental observations into coherent field narrativesAbility to support senior staff in preparing monitoring plans, protocols and technical sectionsAbility to collaborate effectively with engineers, geomorphologists, and higher-level scientistsAbility to collect, manage, and analyze high-quality data sets from field and laboratory projectsAbility to provide task delegation to technicians and complete work assigned by project leadersWork both independently and collaboratively with individuals from diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectivesDemonstrate empathy, discretion, and professionalism when handling sensitive or confidential informationExercise sound judgment and initiative in both routine and unexpected situations, adapting effectively to new technologies, processes, and prioritiesManage calendars, schedules, and shared information accurately and with confidentiality when requiredFollow established procedures while identifying opportunities for improvement and innovationRetain and recall information accurately to ensure reliable and consistent serviceMaintain composure and a positive attitude in stressful or rapidly changing situations, contributing to a healthy and inclusive workplace culture Physical Requirements Must have visual acuity, strong manual dexterity in hands/arms, clear speech, and keen hearingAbility to lift and carry up to 50 poundsAbility to climb ladders and work on boat platformsComfort working in aquatic environments, including wading and swimming in rivers or streamsAbility to walk long distances across uneven terrain and maintain physical endurance during extended fieldwork WORK ENVIRONMENT The work environment is friendly, team-oriented, cooperative, and respectfulRegular and predictable attendance is a requirement of the jobWork involves both indoor office settings and outdoor field environmentsRequires travel to remote project sites, sometimes for several consecutive daysExposure to variable weather conditions, aquatic habitats, and moderate physical exertion. Compensation & Benefits $27.50 to $35.40 per hour, depending upon experience. Paid sick leave with accruals starting on first day of employment and voluntary 401(k) eligibility for company plan.Competitive base salary based on qualifications Health and retirement benefits Incentive pay structure available CFS is an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) company ABOUT CRAMER FISH SCIENCES: The mission of Cramer Fish Sciences is to provide quality, expert science which supports wise policy decisions and advances the field of natural resource management. We help clients in the Pacific Northwest and California find innovative and practical solutions to challenges with fisheries, riparian, and aquatic ecology. AFFIRMATIVE ACTION: Cramer Fish Sciences is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer: All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against based on disability.