BIOLOGIST I

Location: Little Rock, AR (Pulaski County) – on-site, essential position; remote work is not approved.

About the Department

The Arkansas Department of Agriculture is the state’s largest industry agency, dedicated to developing and implementing policies and programs for Arkansas agriculture and forestry. Its mission is to keep farmers and ranchers competitive in national and international markets while ensuring safe food, fiber, and forest products for citizens. The Department is organized into five divisions: Forestry, Livestock and Poultry, Natural Resources, Plant Industries, and Shared Services.

About the Role

The Biologist I is an entry-level scientific position responsible for assisting in biological research, data collection, environmental monitoring, and supporting conservation or natural resource programs across the state.

Responsibilities

• Assist in conducting biological field surveys for wildlife, aquatic life, plant species, and/or habitats.
• Collect samples and observational data using standard scientific methods and tools (e.g., GPS, sampling nets, binoculars).
• Perform routine environmental measurements and inspections under the guidance of senior staff.
• Accurately record, enter, and maintain data collected in the field.
• Assist in preparing reports, charts, and documentation used for internal analysis, public reporting, or compliance purposes.
• Support conservation, habitat restoration, wildlife management, or environmental protection programs through logistical assistance and data processing.
• Maintain equipment, organize supplies, and ensure field tools are properly stored and calibrated.
• Participate in activities that help ensure agency compliance with environmental regulations and permits (e.g., wetland delineation support, threatened species monitoring).
• Conduct preliminary reviews or assessments under the supervision of a higher-level biologist.

Requirements

• At least six months of experience in biology or a related field.
• Experience handling animal bodily fluids, tissues, and microbiological cultures (preferred).
• Experience performing both conventional and real-time PCR (preferred).
• At least one year of verifiable experience working within a formal quality management system, including authoring, revising controlled documents, and performing root cause and corrective action analysis (preferred).
• Ability and willingness to regularly wear personal protective equipment and comply with respirator fit-testing requirements.
• Rabies vaccination is required, along with documented maintenance of an adequate antibody titer.
• Ability to perform precise, repetitive work in a high-throughput environment, including pipetting, cutting of animal tissues, and weighing specimens.

Skills

• Detail-oriented in data gathering, field observations, and documentation.
• Reliable in completing tasks on time and following protocols with minimal supervision.
• Able to clearly report findings both orally and in writing to colleagues and supervisors.
• Works well in field teams or interdisciplinary groups in both structured and remote settings.

Pay

Salary range: $58,700 – $86,876. Anticipated starting salary: $58,700.