Launch Your Career in Fisheries: Biological Science Technician with the USACE
Are you looking to make a tangible impact on the environment while working with one of the most respected engineering agencies in the world? The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) is currently hiring a Biological Science Technician (Fisheries) at the Little Goose Project in Starbuck, Washington. This role offers an incredible blend of technical field work and conservation efforts on the Snake River.
Job Responsibilities
As a Biological Science Technician, your daily tasks will focus on the survival and migration of juvenile fish populations. Key duties include:
- Operating fish transportation barges and specialized bypass facilities.
- Collecting and recording scientific data to track fish behavior and health.
- Monitoring equipment such as electronic fish counters and PIT tag systems.
- Coordinating with onsite researchers to support biological studies.
- Ensuring all operations meet strict fish passage criteria.
Requirements
To be successful in this role, you must meet specific criteria regarding experience and education. The table below summarizes the qualification paths:
| Grade Level | Education Requirement | Experience Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| GS-5 | Bachelor’s degree in related field | 1 year specialized experience |
| GS-6 | 9 semester hours of graduate study | 1 year specialized experience |
| GS-7 | 1 year of graduate study | 1 year specialized experience |
Salary Overview
This position is structured under the General Schedule (GS) pay scale, with a salary range of $40,736 to $65,599 per year. The exact salary depends on the grade level selected, which is determined by your specific experience and education level.
Benefits
Employees at USACE benefit from federal job security, comprehensive health and retirement programs, and the chance to work in a collaborative, professional environment. Because this is a seasonal role, it provides excellent flexibility, allowing you to focus on intense field operations during the peak spring and summer seasons.
Application Tips
- Focus on Quality: Keep your resume under two pages and ensure it clearly reflects the specialized experience described in the job announcement.
- Documentation is Key: If you are qualifying based on education, do not forget to attach your official transcripts.
- Use Plain Language: Make it easy for HR professionals to see your qualifications without having to interpret complex acronyms.
Working as a Biological Science Technician with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is more than just a job; it’s an opportunity to contribute to the health of our aquatic ecosystems. If you are detail-oriented, passionate about biology, and ready to work in a dynamic outdoor environment, we encourage you to apply before the November 4, 2026, deadline.
Why This Biological Sicence Technician (Fisheries) Job Matters
Dive into a career where engineering meets ecology! The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is seeking dedicated professionals to manage vital fish transportation programs in Washington State.
Biological Sicence Technician (Fisheries) Job Overview
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) is hiring Biological Science Technicians (Fisheries) for the Little Goose Project in Starbuck, Washington. This seasonal, full-time role is essential to the agency's mission of balancing environmental stewardship with water infrastructure management. You will be responsible for operating specialized fish transportation facilities and barges, ensuring the health and safety of fish populations throughout the Snake River system. This position offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in biological data collection and infrastructure operations.
Requirements for Biological Sicence Technician (Fisheries)
- U.S. Citizenship is required.
- Submission of a resume limited to two pages or less.
- For GS-5: One year of specialized experience at the GS-4 level or a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as biology, wildlife management, or environmental science.
- For GS-6: One year of specialized experience at the GS-5 level or at least 9 semester hours of graduate-level education in a related field.
- For GS-7: One year of specialized experience at the GS-6 level or at least one year of graduate-level education in a related field.
- Successful completion of a probationary period.
- Pre-employment registration with the Selective Service for male applicants born after Dec 31, 1959.
- Ability to work rotating shifts during the season (March through November).
Preferred Qualifications for Biological Sicence Technician (Fisheries)
- Experience operating juvenile fish transportation equipment, including PIT tag interrogation systems and electronic counters.
- Proficiency in biological data collection, sampling, and monitoring techniques.
- Strong communication skills for reporting facility operations and coordinating with research teams.
- Knowledge of fish passage criteria and facility maintenance protocols.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary with locality pay.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development within the USACE career program.
- ✓Seasonal structure that provides a balanced work-life approach during peak seasons.
- ✓Access to federal leave and retirement benefits for eligible employees.
- ✓Meaningful work contributing to national environmental and infrastructure security.
💡 How to Apply Biological Sicence Technician (Fisheries) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Biological Sicence Technician (Fisheries) Job
- Review your eligibility and ensure your resume is two pages or less.
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Complete the online questionnaire via the USA Staffing link.
- Upload required documents, including transcripts if using education to qualify.
- Submit your application before the closing date of November 4, 2026.
- Monitor your status through the USAJOBS dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume specifically addresses the specialized experience requirements listed in the announcement.
- Use clear, plain language; avoid complex acronyms or industry jargon that may be misunderstood by automated systems.
- Double-check that your transcripts are attached if you are using education as a qualification basis.
- Verify that your resume includes employer names, job titles, and hours worked per week for every position listed.
- Submit your application well before the deadline to allow time for the automated document virus scanning process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a permanent position?
No, this is a seasonal, full-time position with active duty typically occurring from March through November each year.
Can I qualify with just my degree?
Yes, education can be substituted for experience at certain grade levels, provided your degree is in a relevant biological or scientific field.
Are there opportunities for telework?
This position is eligible for situational telework only, due to the hands-on nature of the field work.
What is the work schedule?
This is a seasonal role with work primarily spanning from March to November. It involves rotating shifts.
Is relocation assistance provided?
No, Permanent Change of Station (PCS) costs are not authorized for this position.
Job from U.S. Army Corps Of Engineers
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is much more than just construction. As the nation's premier engineering and environmental agency, USACE manages major waterways and infrastructure projects that support national security and the economy. By joining the team in Starbuck, you are becoming part of a legacy that values innovation, safety, and sustainable resource management.