Become a Leader in Aquatic Conservation: Supervisory Fish Biologist
Are you an experienced fisheries professional looking to take the next step in your career? The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) is currently accepting applications for a Supervisory Fish Biologist (Project Leader) based in Leavenworth, Washington. This position is a cornerstone of the Mid-Columbia Fish and Wildlife Conservation Office, offering the opportunity to direct high-impact environmental projects in the Pacific Northwest.
Job Responsibilities
As a Project Leader, you will wear many hats, balancing administrative duties with field-based scientific leadership. Your core responsibilities include:
- Strategic Direction: Setting the vision for hatchery production evaluations and aquatic conservation research.
- Budgeting: Prioritizing and managing fiscal resources to support field teams and equipment needs.
- Collaboration: Serving as a primary liaison between federal agencies, tribal nations, and local stakeholders.
- Mentorship: Developing the scientific competencies of junior staff through guidance and professional coaching.
- Policy Development: Creating and implementing guidelines for the harvest and protection of aquatic species.
Requirements
To qualify for this GS-13 position, you must demonstrate strong technical proficiency and organizational leadership. Candidates must satisfy the following:
- Education: A degree in biological science with at least 6 hours in aquatic subjects and 12 hours in animal sciences.
- Experience: At least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-12 level.
- Professionalism: A valid driver's license and successful completion of a federal background check.
Qualifications Comparison Table
| Feature | Requirement Status |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | Mandatory (U.S. Only) |
| Education | Required (Biological Sciences) |
| Experience | Min. 1 Year GS-12 Equivalent |
| Probation | 1-Year Period Mandatory |
| Telework | Available (Per Policy) |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive federal salary package ranging from $106,437 to $138,370 per year. Beyond the base salary, employees benefit from the comprehensive federal benefits package, including:
- Federal health insurance and pension plans (FERS).
- Generous sick and annual leave accrual.
- Potential for relocation incentives for eligible applicants.
- Career stability within the Department of the Interior.
Application Tips
Your application package is evaluated based on specific criteria. To improve your chances, ensure your resume is concise (max 2 pages) and explicitly mentions 'full-time' or the specific hours worked for each role. Always include your most recent performance appraisal and all required transcripts. Double-check your submission to ensure you have attached all required SF-50 documentation if you are a current or former federal employee.
This is a unique opportunity to lead a regional conservation team in one of the most ecologically significant areas of the United States. If you are passionate about science-based stewardship and ready to lead at the federal level, prepare your application documents and apply before the closing date of September 8, 2026.
Why This Supervisory Fish Biologist Job Matters
Lead the future of Pacific Northwest aquatic conservation as a Supervisory Fish Biologist with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in beautiful Leavenworth, Washington.
Supervisory Fish Biologist Job Overview
Join the Mid-Columbia Fish and Wildlife Conservation Office as a Project Leader. In this pivotal role, you will provide scientific leadership and strategic direction for fishery conservation, hatchery operations, and habitat restoration efforts. You will collaborate with tribal partners, federal and state agencies, and stakeholders to manage and protect salmonid populations and other aquatic species within the Leavenworth Fisheries Complex.
Requirements for Supervisory Fish Biologist
- U.S. Citizenship or National status
- Completion of a background investigation and favorable adjudication
- Registration with Selective Service (for males born after 12-31-59)
- Participation in Direct Deposit
- Successful E-Verify employment check
- Possession and maintenance of a valid state driver's license
- Minimum of one year of specialized experience at the GS-12 level
- Completion of a 1-year probationary period
Preferred Qualifications for Supervisory Fish Biologist
- Demonstrated experience in hatchery data collection and management
- Expertise in budget development and resource allocation for conservation projects
- Proven ability to present technical research to diverse stakeholder groups
- Strong background in salmonid biology and riverine ecology
- Experience managing interagency agreements and regulatory policy
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal health, dental, and vision insurance programs
- ✓Life insurance coverage
- ✓Federal Employee Retirement System (FERS) participation
- ✓Paid federal holidays and generous annual leave
- ✓Professional development and leadership training opportunities
- ✓Relocation incentives may be available for qualified candidates
💡 How to Apply Supervisory Fish Biologist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Supervisory Fish Biologist Job
- Review the full vacancy announcement thoroughly.
- Prepare a resume that specifically details hours worked per week and dates of employment.
- Gather your most recent performance appraisal and list of professional awards.
- Compile official college transcripts proving your biological science coursework.
- Submit your complete application package via the online portal before the deadline.
- Complete the required online assessment questionnaire.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume strictly under two pages with 10-point minimum font and 0.5-inch margins.
- Clearly indicate 'full-time' or 'part-time' with specific hours worked for every role listed.
- Ensure your resume explicitly addresses the five core specialized experience requirements listed in the announcement.
- If you lack a recent performance appraisal, include a signed statement explaining its absence.
- Do not submit award-based SF-50s; only focus on career-related status documents.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a college degree mandatory for this position?
Yes, you must meet basic educational requirements in biological sciences, including specific semester hours in aquatic and animal sciences, or a qualifying combination of education and experience.
Does this role allow for remote work?
The position is not remote-eligible, but it is telework-eligible, meaning you may perform some duties from home as authorized by agency policy.
What happens if I submit a resume longer than two pages?
Resumes exceeding the two-page limit will not be accepted and will result in an incomplete application status.
Job from U.S. Fish And Wildlife Service
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is a federal agency under the Department of the Interior tasked with protecting the nation’s fish, wildlife, and plant resources. By working with tribal partners, local communities, and other government entities, the FWS ensures that our aquatic ecosystems remain healthy for future generations. This role is part of the Leavenworth Fisheries Complex, which focuses on sustainable population management and habitat health.