Become a Leader in Aquatic Conservation: Supervisory Fish Biologist (GS-9)
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) is currently hiring a Supervisory Fish Biologist to work out of our Lodi, California, office. This role offers a unique opportunity for early-to-mid career biologists to transition into leadership while remaining directly involved in the science that protects our nation's most iconic fishery resources.
Job Responsibilities
As a Supervisory Fish Biologist, you will balance field science with administrative leadership. Your core duties will involve:
- Team Supervision: Hiring, scheduling, mentoring, and evaluating permanent and temporary staff.
- Field Operations: Utilizing advanced equipment such as electrofishers, rotary screw traps, and sonar to monitor species.
- Data Synthesis: Analyzing complex environmental data to guide restoration projects and author technical reports.
- Partner Collaboration: Working with tribal partners, NGOs, and state agencies to implement joint environmental initiatives.
Requirements
To qualify for this GS-9 position, candidates must meet specific academic and professional criteria:
- Academic Foundation: A degree in biological science including at least 6 credits in aquatic subjects and 12 credits in animal sciences.
- Professional Experience: One year of specialized experience at the GS-7 level or equivalent, which must include fish investigation, data analysis, and team oversight.
- Documentation: You must provide clear transcripts showing relevant coursework and professional documentation for any prior federal service.
Comparison Table: Job Qualifications
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Education | Degree in Biological Science (min 18 core credits) |
| Experience | Equivalent of 1 year at GS-07 level |
| Leadership | Proven ability to direct field and project staff |
| Technical | Proficiency in fish population data analysis |
Salary and Benefits
The salary range for this position is $77,161 to $100,315 per year. In addition to a competitive federal salary, employees receive:
- Access to federal health and life insurance plans.
- Participation in the FERS retirement system.
- Significant opportunities for federal career development and upward mobility.
Application Tips
- Use the Resume Builder: This tool ensures you do not miss required fields like 'hours per week'.
- Highlight Supervisory Potential: Even if you have not held a formal 'supervisor' title, highlight projects where you led teams, trained others, or managed project logistics.
- Transcripts Matter: If your coursework is unconventional, supplement your transcript with a letter from your registrar explaining the credit breakdown.
If you have a passion for aquatic science and the desire to lead, we invite you to apply. This role is a vital component of our effort to preserve California’s rich aquatic heritage. Ensure your application is submitted via USAJOBS by July 2, 2026, to be considered.
Why This Supervisory Fish Biologist Job Matters
Lead vital aquatic conservation efforts in the heart of California by joining the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service as a Supervisory Fish Biologist.
Supervisory Fish Biologist Job Overview
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is seeking a dedicated Supervisory Fish Biologist (GS-0482-9) to join the R8-Lodi Fish and Wildlife Office in Lodi, California. This leadership role is perfect for a science-driven professional eager to direct field studies, manage aquatic ecosystem data, and mentor a talented team. You will play a crucial role in safeguarding iconic fisheries and driving collaborative conservation initiatives across regional watersheds.
Requirements for Supervisory Fish Biologist
- Possess a degree in biological science including at least 6 semester hours in aquatic subjects and 12 semester hours in animal sciences.
- Alternatively, show a combination of education and experience equivalent to a major in biological science.
- One year of specialized experience at the GS-07 level or equivalent involving fish population assessment, field investigations, and data analysis.
- Ability to lead and oversee project teams and maintain collaborative partnerships with external agencies.
- Must meet all qualification requirements by the closing date of the announcement (07/02/2026).
- U.S. Citizenship is required.
Preferred Qualifications for Supervisory Fish Biologist
- Demonstrated experience in salmonid-focused habitat and population investigations.
- Proven track record in technical proposal writing, grant management, and scientific reporting.
- Advanced graduate education (Master’s degree or higher) in a related biological field.
- Strong interpersonal skills for navigating complex multi-agency conservation projects.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Comprehensive health insurance plans
- âś“Federal retirement system participation
- âś“Paid federal holidays and leave accrual
- âś“Structured career advancement opportunities within the Department of the Interior
- âś“Flexible work-life balance initiatives
đź’ˇ How to Apply Supervisory Fish Biologist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Supervisory Fish Biologist Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Review the application questionnaire and appointment eligibility criteria.
- Prepare a resume that explicitly lists hours worked per week, dates, and duties.
- Upload required documents, including official or unofficial transcripts and SF-50 forms if applicable.
- Submit your application package before 11:59 PM ET on 07/02/2026.
- Monitor your status via the 'Applications' tab in USAJOBS.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder to ensure all federal requirements are captured.
- Be specific about your field experience; quantify your roles (e.g., number of staff supervised or types of traps used).
- If claiming veteran or CTAP preference, ensure all supporting documentation (DD-214, SF-50, etc.) is attached correctly.
- Double-check your transcripts—if your aquatic coursework is not obvious, provide a syllabus or catalog description.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary mission of this role?
The role centers on directing staff and field operations to monitor fish populations and aquatic health in California, contributing to science-based ecosystem restoration.
Is telework available for this position?
This position is generally office-based and suitable for telework only in emergency situations or during natural disasters.
Job from U.S. Fish And Wildlife Service
The Department of the Interior’s Fish and Wildlife Service is the premier government agency dedicated to the conservation, protection, and enhancement of fish, wildlife, and plants. Our team works across the country to restore habitats and manage sustainable ecosystems. By joining our Lodi office, you will become part of a collaborative network focused on salmonid recovery and healthy watershed management.