Embark on a Rewarding Career as a Fish Biologist in Ashland, Wisconsin
Are you a scientist with a passion for aquatic conservation? The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) is seeking a motivated and skilled Fish Biologist to join their team in the scenic town of Ashland, Wisconsin. This role is an incredible opportunity to work on high-level fisheries management, contribute to species recovery, and protect the delicate ecosystems that define the Great Lakes region.
Job Responsibilities
At the GS-12 level, you will serve as a key technical lead. Your daily responsibilities will include:
- Designing and executing studies to monitor fish population trends.
- Analyzing biological data using standard and novel statistical protocols.
- Developing reports and presentations to communicate findings to technical and non-technical partners.
- Partnering with Tribal, State, and Federal agencies to coordinate basin-wide habitat restoration.
Grade Level Comparison
| Feature | GS-11 | GS-12 |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Supporting/Assisting | Leading/Implementing |
| Autonomy | Supervised projects | Independent project design |
| Partnership | Fostering connections | Leading collaborative efforts |
Requirements
Applicants must be U.S. citizens and able to pass a background investigation. You must have a strong academic foundation in biological sciences, specifically including 6 semester hours in aquatic subjects and 12 hours in animal sciences. Professional experience must be clearly documented with hours per week to be considered eligible.
Salary Overview
This position offers competitive federal compensation commensurate with experience:
- GS-11: $74,678 - $97,087
- GS-12: $89,508 - $116,362
Benefits
Working for the federal government provides a robust benefits package, including:
- Health and Life Insurance
- Retirement Planning (FERS)
- Generous annual and sick leave accrual
- Uniform allowance
Application Tips
- Resume Precision: Keep your resume to 2 pages maximum and ensure every entry includes hours per week.
- Transcript Verification: Ensure your transcripts clearly show your major and relevant course credit hours.
- Performance Data: Always submit your most recent appraisal. If you don't have one, provide a concise explanation.
If you are ready to make a significant impact on our aquatic environment, apply for the Fish Biologist position in Ashland today. It is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the preservation of our natural world.
Why This Fish Biologist Job Matters
Turn your passion for aquatic science into a high-impact career with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in beautiful Ashland, Wisconsin.
Fish Biologist Job Overview
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is seeking a dedicated Fish Biologist to join the Ashland Fish & Wildlife Conservation Office. In this role, you will contribute directly to the rehabilitation of fisheries, support population recovery initiatives, and foster strategic partnerships that protect our nation's aquatic resources. Whether you are operating at the GS-11 or GS-12 level, you will play a critical role in designing, monitoring, and analyzing biological data to inform future conservation efforts in a scenic, nature-rich environment.
Requirements for Fish Biologist
- U.S. Citizenship
- Background investigation and favorable adjudication
- Selective Service registration for males born after 12-31-59
- Valid driver's license
- Must wear required uniform (allowance provided)
- Successful completion of E-Verify
- Mandatory probationary period (typically 1 year)
- Direct deposit requirement
Preferred Qualifications for Fish Biologist
- Advanced graduate education (Ph.D. or equivalent) in biological sciences or related fields
- Demonstrated proficiency in statistical analysis for fisheries data
- Proven experience fostering inter-agency or Tribal partnerships
- Experience in both the design and field execution of complex biological studies
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive Federal health insurance options
- ✓Federal retirement system participation
- ✓Life insurance coverage
- ✓Paid annual and sick leave
- ✓Uniform allowance
- ✓Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives based on agency determination
💡 How to Apply Fish Biologist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Fish Biologist Job
- Review the full job announcement carefully to ensure you meet all requirements.
- Prepare a resume that does not exceed 2 pages, following the specific formatting guidelines (10-point font, 0.5-inch margins).
- Gather your required documents, including official transcripts and your most recent performance appraisal.
- Click the official application link to access the questionnaire.
- Submit your complete package, including the questionnaire and supporting documents, before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Your resume must explicitly state hours worked per week; failure to include this can lead to disqualification.
- Submit your most recent performance appraisal; if unavailable, provide a written statement explaining why.
- Ensure your resume clearly distinguishes between GS-11 and GS-12 level work if applicable.
- Do not include personal photographs or Adobe portfolio files.
- Check your USAJOBS account regularly to verify the status of your application.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I submit more than one resume?
Yes, but only the most recent submission will be reviewed. We recommend focusing on a single, high-quality 2-page document.
Is this position eligible for telework?
Yes, this position is eligible for telework, though it is not a fully remote position.
Do I need to submit official transcripts now?
You may use unofficial transcripts for the application process, but if selected, you will be required to provide official transcripts before your start date.
Job from U.S. Fish And Wildlife Service
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is a bureau within the Department of the Interior. Our mission is centered on working with others to conserve, protect, and enhance fish, wildlife, plants, and their habitats. By joining the Ashland Fish & Wildlife Conservation Office, you become part of a national network dedicated to the stewardship of America's natural heritage for the benefit of future generations.