Embark on a Career in Marine Conservation as a NOAA Fish Biologist
Are you passionate about the ocean and committed to scientific integrity? The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is currently seeking a dedicated Fish Biologist to join the Fishery Monitoring and Analysis (FMA) team within the Alaska Fisheries Science Center. This is a vital role located in either Anchorage, Alaska, or Seattle, Washington, playing a crucial part in managing the health of our marine ecosystems.
Job Responsibilities
As a Fish Biologist, your day-to-day work will directly impact how fisheries are monitored and managed. Your primary duties will include:
- Observer Training: Educating and preparing at-sea observers for data collection, proper specimen handling, and species identification.
- Data Integrity: Analyzing incoming observer data and providing actionable feedback to improve the quality of biological samples.
- Methodology Development: Designing new approaches for data collection surveys to support effective fishery management and conservation.
- Field Support: Providing guidance to teams at sea and ensuring compliance with protected species documentation requirements.
Requirements
To qualify for this position, applicants must meet specific educational and professional standards:
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Education | Degree in biological science with at least 6 sem. hrs in aquatic subjects & 12 sem. hrs in animal science. |
| Experience | One year of specialized experience at the ZP-1 or GS-05 level. |
| Selective Factor | Demonstrated experience collecting/processing groundfish data in the North Pacific. |
| Citizenship | Must be a U.S. Citizen. |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $56,715 to $99,904 per year. Beyond the salary, NOAA provides a comprehensive federal benefits package, including:
- Health and life insurance programs.
- Retirement benefits through the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- Paid annual and sick leave.
- Opportunities for professional development and federal career growth.
Application Tips
- Use the Resume Builder: This tool helps you ensure you meet all federal formatting requirements, including the two-page limit.
- Highlight Specialized Experience: Be very specific about your experience with North Pacific groundfish. Use quantifiable data to show your impact.
- Submit Transcripts Early: Don't wait until the last minute. Ensure your transcript clearly shows the credit hours for aquatic and animal science courses.
If you are ready to apply your biological expertise to protect the North Pacific ecosystems, we encourage you to submit your application for this NOAA Fish Biologist opening. With competitive benefits and a clear mission, this role is a significant step for any marine science professional.
Why This Fish Biologist Job Matters
Advance your career in marine science with NOAA—apply your expertise in data management and fishery biology to protect our oceans in the Pacific North Region.
Fish Biologist Job Overview
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is seeking a motivated Fish Biologist to join the Fishery Monitoring and Analysis (FMA) division at the Alaska Fisheries Science Center. This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to vital conservation efforts by training, guiding, and supporting at-sea observers. You will be responsible for ensuring the integrity of biological data collection while working in either Anchorage, Alaska, or Seattle, Washington. This position is essential to maintaining the high standards of fisheries research and management that drive America's marine economy.
Requirements for Fish Biologist
- U.S. Citizenship is mandatory.
- Must possess a degree in biological science with at least 6 semester hours in aquatic subjects and 12 semester hours in animal sciences, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to the ZP-1 or GS-05 level in Federal service.
- Must have experience collecting and processing data from groundfish fisheries in the North Pacific Region.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a valid state driver's license for government vehicle operation.
- Must pass a background investigation for suitability.
- Submission of college transcripts for verification of education.
Preferred Qualifications for Fish Biologist
- Demonstrated ability to train and mentor personnel in field data collection techniques.
- Proven experience in developing and implementing quality control procedures for complex datasets.
- Familiarity with marine species identification and protected species documentation.
- Demonstrated excellence in communication and feedback delivery to field observers.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal Salary
- ✓Federal Health and Life Insurance options
- ✓Retirement savings plans including the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP)
- ✓Paid vacation and sick leave
- ✓Federal holidays
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training
- ✓Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives for qualified candidates
💡 How to Apply Fish Biologist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Fish Biologist Job
- Create a profile on USAJOBS if you have not already done so.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly no more than two pages.
- Gather supporting documents such as college transcripts, SF-50 forms, and any applicable veterans' preference documentation.
- Click the 'Apply Online' button on the vacancy announcement page.
- Complete the required questionnaire and upload your documents.
- Ensure all materials are submitted by 11:59 PM (ET) on the closing date.
- Monitor your status via the 'Track Your Online Application' feature in your USAJOBS account.
💡 General Tips
- Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder to ensure you capture all required details, such as hours worked per week and series/grade information.
- Be precise with your specialized experience; clearly highlight your work with North Pacific groundfish fisheries to meet the selective placement factor.
- Submit unofficial transcripts early to ensure your basic education requirements are verified.
- Double-check that your resume is under the two-page limit to avoid automatic disqualification.
- Keep your email address up-to-date in your USAJOBS profile as this is the primary channel for communication.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between this announcement and the DE announcement?
This announcement is specific to internal/status candidates while the DE (Direct Hire) announcement is open to the public. If you are unsure which applies to you, consider applying to both.
Is relocation assistance provided?
Relocation expenses (PCS) are not authorized, though recruitment or relocation incentives may be available for current federal employees in certain situations.
Can I work remotely?
The position is eligible for telework, but it is not a fully remote position. You will need to be present in either the Anchorage or Seattle office.
What is the work schedule like?
The position is generally a full-time schedule, though the nature of fisheries monitoring may involve some unique coordination with at-sea schedules.
Can I apply to multiple locations?
Yes, the position has vacancies in both Anchorage and Seattle. You should specify your preference if indicated in the application.
Job from National Oceanic And Atmospheric Administration
NOAA is an agency dedicated to science and service. By monitoring our climate, managing fisheries, and protecting coastal ecosystems, NOAA plays a significant role in the American economy. As a part of the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), you will join a team of professionals focused on high-tech research, conservation, and the development of sustainable fishing practices that ensure marine resources remain available for future generations.