Launch Your Conservation Career: Biological Science Technician (Fish) in Maine

Are you looking for a hands-on career opportunity that makes a tangible difference in environmental conservation? The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) is currently hiring Seasonal Biological Science Technicians (Fish) to support vital aquatic research and hatchery operations in Maine. This role is an excellent entry point for aspiring biologists, conservationists, and wildlife management professionals.

Job Responsibilities

Depending on the specific assignment at the Green Lake or Craig Brook National Fish Hatcheries, your daily responsibilities may include:

Hatchery Operations: Managing fish rearing in tanks or raceways, cleaning facilities, monitoring feeding behaviors, and assisting with disease treatment and spawning.
Field Research: Participating in fish population surveys, utilizing electrofishing equipment, managing nets and traps, and documenting environmental conditions.
Maintenance: Maintaining hatchery grounds and equipment, utilizing hand and power tools, and ensuring the upkeep of laboratory spaces.
Data Management: Collecting, compiling, and summarizing research data for reporting.

Requirements

To be considered for this position, applicants must meet the following federal requirements:

Citizenship: You must be a U.S. Citizen or National.
Licensing: A valid driver's license is required.
Background: Ability to pass a federal background investigation and suitability check.
Selective Service: Compliance with registration requirements for males born after 1959.
Application Precision: Submission of a concise, two-page resume that details professional experience and hours worked.

Comparison Table: Hatchery vs. Survey Duties

Feature	Hatchery Operations	Population Surveys
Primary Setting	Indoor/Controlled Facility	Outdoor/Field Environment
Key Tasks	Husbandry, Feeding, Cleaning	Research, Netting, Sampling
Primary Tools	Feeding Systems, Tanks	Boats, Electrofishing, Traps

Salary Overview

This position offers a competitive hourly rate ranging from $19.52 to $25.37. Rates are established based on federal pay scales and the nature of the specific duties assigned.

Benefits

While this is a temporary, seasonal appointment, employees benefit from:

High-level training in federal conservation techniques.
Uniform allowance.
Valuable networking within the Department of the Interior.

Application Tips

The most successful applicants focus on the "federal resume" format. Ensure every position listed includes the number of hours worked per week, as this is how the agency verifies eligibility. Because this announcement is limited to the first 100 applicants, you are encouraged to prepare your documents and apply as soon as the announcement opens.

Working as a Biological Science Technician in Maine is more than just a job; it is a contribution to the preservation of our nation's aquatic ecosystems. If you have the required educational background or experience and a passion for wildlife, we encourage you to review the full details and submit your application today.

Why This Biological Science Technician (Fish) (Seasonal) Job Matters

Launch your conservation career with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service! Spend your season hands-on in Maine, protecting vital fish populations and habitats.

Biological Science Technician (Fish) (Seasonal) Job Overview

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is seeking motivated individuals for seasonal Biological Science Technician positions in Ellsworth and Orland, Maine. These roles provide essential support for national fish hatchery operations or field-based fish population surveys. Ideal for those passionate about aquatic biology and conservation, this temporary role offers a unique opportunity to gain practical experience in a federal environment.

Requirements for Biological Science Technician (Fish) (Seasonal)

U.S. Citizenship or National status.
Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license.
Males born after December 31, 1959, must be registered for Selective Service.
Must successfully pass an E-Verify employment check.
Completion of a background investigation and favorable adjudication.
Must be able to wear a uniform and comply with agency standards.
Participation in Direct Deposit for salary payment.

Preferred Qualifications for Biological Science Technician (Fish) (Seasonal)

One year of specialized experience equivalent to GS-04 federal grade.
Bachelor's degree with at least 24 semester hours in relevant sciences (biology, chemistry, statistics, aquaculture, etc.).
Coursework directly related to fishery biology, ichthyology, or limnology.
A combination of relevant education and experience.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Federal employment experience
✓Uniform allowance provided
✓Exposure to professional conservation and wildlife management practices
✓Access to federal career networks

💡 How to Apply Biological Science Technician (Fish) (Seasonal) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Biological Science Technician (Fish) (Seasonal) Job

Review the full vacancy announcement carefully.
Prepare a resume that is no longer than two pages.
Gather necessary documentation, including academic transcripts and veteran preference proof.
Log into your USAJOBS account.
Complete the online application questionnaire.
Submit your application and required documents before the closing date.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume explicitly mentions hours worked per week to qualify for experience credit.
Double-check your resume page limit; applications exceeding two pages will be disqualified.
Preview the assessment questionnaire early to understand the technical competencies being tested.
Submit your application well before the deadline, as the portal limits the intake to the first 100 applicants.
Do not include photos of yourself in your application documents.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of this position?

This is a seasonal, temporary appointment expected to last up to 6 months or a maximum of 1039 hours.

Can I apply if I am not a U.S. citizen?

No, this position requires you to be a U.S. Citizen or National.

How should I format my resume?

Your resume must be no longer than two pages, use at least 10-point font, and maintain 0.5-inch margins. It must clearly list duties, dates of employment, and average hours worked per week.

Job from U.S. Fish And Wildlife Service

The Department of the Interior and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service play a pivotal role in protecting America's natural heritage. From managing national fish hatcheries to conducting field-based studies on migratory species, the FWS is dedicated to conserving, protecting, and enhancing fish and wildlife habitats for the benefit of current and future generations.