Embark on a Career in Conservation: Biological Science Technician with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

Are you passionate about the environment? Do you thrive in field settings where your work directly impacts the preservation of natural habitats? The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) is currently looking for skilled, motivated individuals to join our team as Biological Science Technicians. This position offers a unique chance to work on the front lines of aquatic species protection in beautiful Northern California.

Job Responsibilities

As a Biological Science Technician, your daily tasks will vary based on your grade level but will center on the collection and analysis of vital biological data. Key responsibilities include:

Conducting fish and aquatic habitat surveys using active and passive sampling methods.
Operating specialized technical equipment like GPS units, tag detectors, and electronic data loggers.
Organizing raw field data into digital formats and contributing to scientific reports.
Supporting field crew operations and maintaining a safe, efficient working environment.

Feature	GS-05	GS-06	GS-07
Scope	Entry-level support	Independent data collection	Crew leadership
Technical Skills	Basic survey assistance	Advanced instrument use	Project coordination
Salary Range	$40k - $52k	$45k - $59k	$50k - $65k

Requirements

To be considered for this role, you must meet the following criteria:

Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen.
Residence: Must live within a 50-mile radius of the duty station (Arcata or Yreka, CA).
Experience/Education: Must satisfy specialized experience requirements or relevant educational milestones (transcript documentation required).
Documentation: A strict two-page resume limit applies to all applicants.

Salary Overview

Salaries for this role are competitive and determined by the GS (General Schedule) pay scale, ranging from $40,736 to $65,599 per year depending on the grade level of the selected candidate.

Benefits

Employees of the Federal government enjoy a robust benefits package, including comprehensive health coverage, life insurance, retirement savings (TSP), and generous paid leave policies.

Application Tips

Be Precise: Ensure your resume clearly outlines your hours worked per week for every position listed.
Documentation: Do not forget to attach your proof of residency, as this is a strict requirement for local hiring.
Formatting: Adhere to the two-page limit and use a readable font size (minimum 10-point).

This role is an excellent entry point for those looking to build a career in environmental science. By bringing your skills to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, you are not just taking a job; you are becoming a steward of our nation’s aquatic resources. Apply today!

Why This Ful-Biological Science Technician Job Matters

Launch your career in conservation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, working directly in the field to protect vital aquatic ecosystems in California.

Ful-Biological Science Technician Job Overview

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is seeking dedicated Biological Science Technicians to join our field teams in Arcata or Yreka, California. In this role, you will play a crucial part in the conservation, protection, and enhancement of fish and wildlife habitats. As a Field Unit Local hire, you will conduct hands-on field surveys, manage complex biological data, and work alongside seasoned professionals to support the health of our Nation’s natural resources.

Requirements for Ful-Biological Science Technician

Must be a U.S. Citizen or National.
Must reside within a 50-mile radius of the duty location (Arcata or Yreka, CA).
Must possess a valid driver's license.
Must pass a pre-employment and random drug screening.
Must complete a one-year probationary period.
Males born after December 31, 1959, must be registered for Selective Service.
Resume must not exceed two pages.
Proof of residency is required at the time of application.

Preferred Qualifications for Ful-Biological Science Technician

Experience in leading field survey crews.
Demonstrated proficiency in identifying regional fish species.
Technical skill with GPS units, microscopes, and electronic data loggers.
Academic background in biology, chemistry, or environmental sciences.
Experience in drafting technical reports on biological field studies.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Federal health insurance plans
✓Retirement savings program
✓Life insurance options
✓Opportunities for professional development
✓Paid federal holidays
✓Sick and annual leave accrual

💡 How to Apply Ful-Biological Science Technician Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Ful-Biological Science Technician Job

Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
Prepare a resume that does not exceed two single-sided pages.
Gather proof of residency documents (e.g., utility bill, lease agreement).
Collect academic transcripts if qualifying via education.
Preview the application questionnaire on the USAJOBS portal.
Submit your complete application package before the deadline.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume clearly states the number of hours worked per week to verify your experience.
Use the exact terminology found in the duty descriptions when describing your work history.
Check for typos and formatting errors; professional, clean resumes stand out.
Verify that your proof of residency is recent and clearly displays your address.
Submit your application early to avoid last-minute technical issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Field Unit Local Hiring (FUL) Authority?

This authority allows the agency to hire candidates who live within a specific distance of the duty station (in this case, 50 miles), helping to prioritize local talent for field-based conservation work.

Can I submit a three-page resume?

No. Resumes must be strictly limited to two single-sided pages. Submissions exceeding this limit will not be reviewed.

Is housing provided for these locations?

No, housing is not provided. Candidates must reside within a 50-mile radius of the duty station to be eligible.

What if I don't have federal experience?

You may qualify through a combination of specialized private-sector experience or relevant education. Review the announcement carefully to see how your background aligns.

Can I work remotely?

No. This is a field-based role located in California. In-person presence is required.

Job from U.S. Fish And Wildlife Service

The Department of the Interior’s U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is committed to conserving, protecting, and enhancing fish, wildlife, plants, and their habitats. Our mission serves as the backbone for the nation's environmental health, ensuring that future generations can enjoy the natural wonders of the American landscape.