Launch Your Career as a Fish Biologist with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
Are you a scientist driven by the desire to protect our nation’s waterways? The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) is seeking a motivated Fish Biologist to join the team at the Lower Monumental Lock & Dam. This is a unique opportunity to apply biological expertise to critical infrastructure and environmental management in the Pacific Northwest.
Job Responsibilities
As a Fish Biologist, you will serve as a key technical advisor, playing a critical role in the management of fisheries programs. Your daily duties will include:
- Developing and planning fish management programs in coordination with leadership.
- Reviewing modifications to fish passage facilities to ensure compliance with safety standards.
- Analyzing hydraulic conditions in fish ladders and bypass systems to optimize passage.
- Collaborating with state, federal, and tribal partners regarding fish protective programs.
- Maintaining knowledge of environmental laws, including the Endangered Species Act.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, you must meet specific educational and professional benchmarks.
| Requirement Type | Criteria |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | Must be a U.S. Citizen |
| Education | Bachelor’s degree (or higher) in biological science |
| Specialized Knowledge | 6+ hours in aquatic subjects and 12+ hours in animal sciences |
| Experience | 1 year of specialized experience at the GS-07 level or equivalent |
Salary and Benefits
The position offers a competitive salary range of $61,722 to $80,243 per year. Beyond the salary, federal employees enjoy a robust benefits package, including comprehensive health insurance, federal retirement programs, and generous leave policies.
Application Tips
- Format Matters: Keep your resume to two pages or less. This is a strict requirement for this vacancy.
- Detail Your Experience: Clearly define your specialized experience, including the number of hours worked per week.
- Transcripts: Ensure your official transcripts are attached and clearly show the required coursework.
This position offers a rare blend of field-based biology and policy-driven environmental management. If you are ready to make a significant impact on the future of our aquatic ecosystems, apply today and build your future with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
Why This Fish Biologist Job Matters
Make a lasting impact on aquatic ecosystems! The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is seeking a dedicated Fish Biologist to support vital conservation efforts at the Lower Monumental Lock & Dam.
Fish Biologist Job Overview
Join the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in Kahlotus, Washington, as a Fish Biologist. This role is essential for managing fish protection programs, ensuring safe passage for aquatic species, and advising on facility operations. You will work within the Walla Walla District, contributing to critical environmental stewardship and infrastructure projects that balance engineering needs with ecological responsibilities.
Requirements for Fish Biologist
- U.S. Citizenship
- Bachelor's degree in biological science with at least 6 semester hours in aquatic subjects and 12 semester hours in animal sciences
- One year of specialized experience at the GS-07 level (or equivalent) in fish evaluation and monitoring, OR a Master's degree in a relevant field
- Ability to provide official college transcripts
- Submission of a resume limited to exactly two pages or less
- Completion of online questionnaire and required federal application documents
Preferred Qualifications for Fish Biologist
- Strong knowledge of environmental laws such as the Endangered Species Act and the Wildlife Coordination Act
- Experience in hydraulic analysis related to fish bypass and collection systems
- Proven ability to collaborate with interdisciplinary teams and external fishery agencies
- Demonstrated skill in analyzing fish management data for program improvement
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive health insurance plans
- ✓Federal retirement pension and thrift savings plan
- ✓Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays
- ✓Flexible career growth within the Department of the Army
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training
💡 How to Apply Fish Biologist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Fish Biologist Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less, highlighting your specialized experience.
- Upload all required transcripts and supporting documentation.
- Complete the mandatory online application questionnaire.
- Submit your final package before the closing date of October 19, 2026.
- Monitor your status via the USAJOBS dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume includes clear start/end dates (month/year) and the average hours worked per week for all positions.
- Avoid using acronyms in your resume; use plain language to describe your accomplishments.
- Double-check that your transcripts clearly demonstrate the required semester hours in aquatic and animal sciences.
- Submit your documents early to account for potential processing times during the virus scan.
- Review your application package thoroughly; incomplete packages will be automatically disqualified.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a remote position?
No, this position is located on-site at the Lower Monumental Lock & Dam near Kahlotus, Washington.
Can I submit a resume longer than two pages?
No. The vacancy announcement explicitly states that resumes exceeding two pages will be removed from consideration.
What happens if my transcript is missing?
If your application relies on education to meet the requirements and you fail to attach your transcripts, you will be rated as ineligible.
What is the closing date for this application?
The application period closes on October 19, 2026.
Do I need a security clearance?
This is a non-sensitive, low-risk position; no formal security clearance is required.
Job from U.S. Army Corps Of Engineers
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is a premier engineering agency dedicated to delivering innovative solutions that strengthen national security and support the economy. Whether managing complex dam operations or environmental restoration projects, the USACE is at the forefront of balancing the nation's engineering requirements with the health of our natural resources. By joining this team, you become part of a professional community dedicated to public service, safety, and sustainable development.