Launching Your Career as a Fish and Wildlife Biologist

Are you passionate about the natural world? The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) is seeking dedicated professionals to step into the role of Fish and Wildlife Biologist at the GS-12 level. This is a unique opportunity to contribute directly to the protection of our nation’s most sensitive habitats and endangered species.

Job Responsibilities

As a Biologist, your work will be diverse and highly impactful. Major responsibilities include:

Endangered Species Act (ESA) Compliance: Coordinating activities related to sections 4, 6, 7, 8, and 10 of the ESA.
Project Management: Leading complex conservation projects from initiation to conclusion, including monitoring timelines and deliverables.
Ecological Investigation: Planning and conducting field research to assess the impact of resource development on threatened and endangered species.
Collaboration: Working with internal and external partners, including tribal, state, and federal entities, to foster positive conservation outcomes.
Report Generation: Drafting Biological Opinions and presenting technical findings to various professional audiences.

Requirements for Success

To qualify for this GS-12 role, applicants must meet strict criteria:

Education: A degree in biological sciences, agriculture, natural resource management, or a related field.
Experience: At least one full year of specialized experience at the GS-11 level.
Documentation: Mandatory submission of transcripts and recent performance appraisals.
Citizenship: Applicants must be U.S. citizens or nationals.

Comparison of Potential Locations

Location	State	Primary Focus
Coeur d'Alene	Idaho	Inland/Freshwater Habitats
Lacey/Vancouver/Wenatchee	Washington	Coastal/Riparian Ecosystems

Salary and Benefits

This position offers a competitive salary range of $89,508 to $130,786 per year. Beyond the salary, federal employees enjoy a robust benefits package, including comprehensive healthcare options, retirement plans (FERS), and generous paid leave policies.

If you have the experience and the drive to help manage our nation's ecological treasures, this role offers an unparalleled platform to make a difference. Ensure your application is complete, formatted correctly, and submitted before the deadline to maximize your chances of joining the Fish and Wildlife Service team.

Why This Fish And Wildlife Biologist Job Matters

Protect the wild: Help shape the future of our nation's most vulnerable species as a Fish and Wildlife Biologist with the Department of the Interior.

Fish And Wildlife Biologist Job Overview

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is seeking dedicated professionals for two Fish and Wildlife Biologist (GS-12) positions. These roles serve as vital links in the implementation of the Endangered Species Act, working across beautiful landscapes in Idaho and Washington to conserve trust resources and partner with diverse stakeholders to ensure ecological health.

Requirements for Fish And Wildlife Biologist

U.S. Citizenship or National status.
Must possess a degree in biological sciences, agriculture, natural resource management, or chemistry.
Must have at least one full year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-11 grade level.
Valid driver's license required.
Must register for Selective Service (if applicable).
Ability to successfully pass E-Verify and background adjudication.
Must adhere to a 1-year probationary period.

Preferred Qualifications for Fish And Wildlife Biologist

Proven experience coordinating Endangered Species Act activities.
Demonstrated skill in building partnerships with Federal, State, Tribal, and private entities.
Strong ability to manage complex projects from development to completion.
Expertise in analyzing ecological impacts and preparing technical documents like Biological Opinions.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Federal health insurance plans.
✓Retirement savings via the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
✓Paid federal holidays, annual leave, and sick leave.
✓Opportunities for professional growth and training.
✓Telework eligibility as determined by agency policy.

💡 How to Apply Fish And Wildlife Biologist Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Fish And Wildlife Biologist Job

Review the full vacancy announcement thoroughly.
Prepare a 2-page maximum resume following formatting guidelines.
Gather supporting documents (transcripts, SF-50s, performance appraisals).
Click the Apply Online link to start your USAJOBS application.
Complete the required questionnaire and the structured resume review assessment.
Submit your complete application package before the closing date.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume explicitly mentions 'full-time' or 'part-time' with hours worked per week for every job entry.
Keep your resume to exactly 2 pages; longer resumes will be excluded.
Do not include photographs or Adobe portfolio files.
Submit your most recent performance appraisal; if unavailable, include a written explanation.
Use the resume builder tool on USAJOBS to ensure compliance with formatting requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary role of this position?

You will be responsible for implementing the Endangered Species Act, conducting ecological investigations, managing complex conservation projects, and building partnerships to protect trust species.

Can I apply if I am not a current federal employee?

Yes, the position is open to various hiring paths including those eligible for merit promotion or land management flexibility. Check the 'Who May Apply' section for your specific eligibility.

What document formats are prohibited?

Do not submit Adobe portfolios, photographs, or resumes that exceed two pages.

Job from U.S. Fish And Wildlife Service

The Department of the Interior (DOI) and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service are committed to managing the natural resources and cultural heritage of the United States. Working for the FWS means joining a team dedicated to conserving, protecting, and enhancing fish, wildlife, and plant habitats for the benefit of all Americans.