District Fish Biologist (Supervising Fish and Wildlife Biologist)

Initial posting date: 08/24/2026 • Application deadline: 09/02/2026 • Agency: Department of Fish and Wildlife

About the role

As the District Fish Biologist (Supervising Fish and Wildlife Biologist) in Klamath Falls, Oregon, you will lead and coordinate the management of district fish resources, including supervising staff responsible for field data collection and responding to public inquiries. The position oversees the collection and analysis of fish population data, protects aquatic and riparian habitats through field investigations and regulatory coordination, and develops habitat restoration and public access projects. This role works directly with other state, federal, tribal, and non-governmental partners throughout the district. Additionally, the position provides public outreach on agency programs and manages fisheries across Lake, Klamath, and portions of Jackson Counties.

This position requires obtaining a Boater Education Certificate through the Oregon State Marine Board within six months of hire.

Responsibilities

• Lead and coordinate district fish resource management, including supervising field data collection and staff.
• Oversee collection and analysis of fish population data.
• Protect aquatic and riparian habitats through field investigations and regulatory coordination.
• Develop habitat restoration and public access projects.
• Collaborate with state, federal, tribal, and non-governmental partners.
• Provide public outreach on agency programs.
• Manage fisheries across Lake, Klamath, and portions of Jackson Counties.

Requirements

• Three years of biological experience performing studies, research, or resource management activities in a fish or wildlife program. At least one year of this experience must be at a technical or professional level performing activities such as researching and analyzing data, conducting investigations, applying pertinent laws and regulations, or coordinating and monitoring project activities.
• A Bachelor's degree in Fisheries or Wildlife Science or a closely-related Bachelor's degree with at least 45 quarter (30 semester) hours of biological/ecological coursework, OR three additional years of biological experience performing studies, research, or resource management activities in a fisheries or wildlife program.
• One year of experience must have included leadwork or supervisory duties.

Qualifications

Equivalency Notes:

• A Master's degree in Fisheries or Wildlife Science or a closely-related Master's degree in biological/ecological sciences will substitute for up to one year of the required experience.
• A Doctorate degree in Fisheries or Wildlife Science or a closely-related Doctorate degree in biological/ecological sciences will substitute for up to two years of the required experience.

Desired Attributes

• Leadership and supervisory experience: Setting priorities, supporting staff development, and maintaining accountability for performance and outcomes to achieve shared resource management goals.
• Biological survey and data analysis experience: Designing and conducting fish population and harvest surveys, operating specialized field equipment, analyzing biological data, and presenting scientific findings to diverse audiences.
• Regulatory and stakeholder coordination experience: Interpreting and communicating agency policies, negotiating mitigative actions with external entities, providing expert testimony, and effectively representing the agency in multi-jurisdictional planning processes.
• Community engagement experience: Building and maintaining productive relationships with state, federal, tribal, and non-governmental organizations to support coordinated, informed decision-making.
• Public communication and outreach experience: Responding to public inquiries, preparing educational materials, delivering presentations, and negotiating controversial topics related to fisheries and habitats.

Application Details

This position requires a cover letter (no longer than two pages) addressing the following:

• Your interest in this position.
• The specific skills, knowledge, and experience that demonstrate your qualifications for the role.
• If you possess any of the desired attributes listed, describe how your experience aligns with those expectations.

Failure to attach a cover letter or address the requested information may result in your application being removed from further consideration.

The salary listed is the non-PERS qualifying salary range. If the successful candidate is PERS qualifying, the salary range will reflect an additional 6.95%.

Pay

$5,907 - $8,717 per month

Benefits

• 11 paid holidays a year and a competitive benefits package.
• Advancement and learning opportunities to grow your career with the State of Oregon.
• ODFW is dedicated to cultivating a diverse and inclusive workforce.

Oregon offers extensive outdoor recreational opportunities, including fishing, hunting, and family-friendly adventures. The state is also known for its vineyards, breweries, and scenic landscapes.