Launch Your Conservation Career: Biological Science Technician (Fisheries) with the National Park Service
Are you looking for a career that gets you out of the office and into the wild? The National Park Service (NPS) is currently accepting applications for a Biological Science Technician (Fisheries) located in Ashland, Oregon. This seasonal opportunity, managed by the Klamath Network, is designed for individuals who are passionate about protecting our nation’s vital aquatic resources.
About the National Park Service
The Department of the Interior and the National Park Service work tirelessly to preserve the natural and cultural heritage of the United States. By joining this team, you become a guardian of our public lands, ensuring that parks remain available for the enjoyment of future generations. Working with the Klamath Network offers unique opportunities to engage in high-impact ecological work in one of the most biodiverse regions of the Pacific Northwest.
Job Responsibilities
As a Biological Science Technician, your primary role is to provide technical support for professional biologists and ecologists. Key duties include:
- Field Research & Monitoring: Executing natural resource management projects and monitoring aquatic habitats.
- Data Management: Collecting, organizing, and analyzing field data to ensure high-quality scientific reporting.
- Logistics & Leadership: Scheduling field projects, maintaining specialized equipment, and providing guidance to junior technicians or volunteers.
- Resource Planning: Assisting in the creation of management plans, guidelines, and literature reviews related to aquatic conservation.
Quick Comparison: Role Requirements
| Feature | Qualification Requirement |
|---|---|
| Education | Bachelor's or Master's degrees in Biology/Fisheries/Ecology |
| Experience | 1 year specialized experience at the GS-8 level |
| Work Schedule | Seasonal, roughly March - October |
| Travel | Backcountry travel required occasionally |
Requirements
To qualify for this position, applicants must meet the standards set forth by the OPM. You must submit a clear, concise, two-page resume that outlines your relevant experience. Whether you qualify through education, experience, or a combination of both, documentation such as transcripts is mandatory.
- Education: Graduate studies in relevant fields such as fisheries, biology, or natural resource management.
- Experience: Specialized experience that shows you can resolve project-related problems and implement scientific methods.
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive hourly wage ranging from $29.57 to $38.45. Employees may also receive a uniform allowance and have access to professional training. While government housing is not guaranteed, the agency may provide assistance for those moving to the Ashland, Oregon area.
Application Tips
- Respect the Page Limit: Your resume must be two pages or less. Submitting a longer document will lead to immediate disqualification.
- Detail Your Hours: Clearly indicate how many hours per week you worked in previous roles to help the HR team calculate your eligibility accurately.
- Use the Preview: Utilize the USAJOBS questionnaire preview link to prepare your answers ahead of time.
- Proofread: Ensure all required documentation—especially transcripts—is legible and complete.
Can I call to check my application status?
No, the Human Resources office cannot handle individual status inquiries. Please refer to your USAJOBS account for updates.
Are there opportunities for promotion?
This position is considered temporary with no promotion potential within this specific appointment.
This role is an excellent stepping stone for those interested in federal conservation careers. With the combination of rigorous field work and technical data management, you will gain the skills necessary to excel in the field of fisheries science. Ensure your application is submitted via the official USAJOBS portal before the closing date.
Why This Biological Science Technician (Fisheries)(Seasonal) Job Matters
Launch your conservation career in the heart of the Pacific Northwest with the National Park Service.
Biological Science Technician (Fisheries)(Seasonal) Job Overview
The National Park Service is seeking a dedicated Biological Science Technician to join the Klamath Network in Ashland, Oregon. This seasonal role is perfect for professionals passionate about aquatic resource management, fisheries conservation, and field-based research. You will play a critical role in supporting biologists and ecologists by performing field data collection, conducting site-specific research, and maintaining aquatic habitats.
Requirements for Biological Science Technician (Fisheries)(Seasonal)
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Must be 18 years of age or older.
- Ability to complete background investigations and pass suitability/fitness screenings.
- Must possess a valid driver's license for the operation of government vehicles.
- Requirement to adhere to all National Park Service uniform standards.
- Willingness to work irregular hours, including weekends, holidays, and on-call shifts.
- Must comply with Selective Service registration for males born after Dec 31, 1959.
Preferred Qualifications for Biological Science Technician (Fisheries)(Seasonal)
- One year of specialized experience at the GS-8 level involving natural resource management, field research, or aquatic ecological studies.
- Completion of 2 years of graduate-level education in fields such as biology, fisheries, ecology, or environmental science.
- Equivalent combination of academic credit and relevant technical field experience.
- Demonstrated ability to organize, lead, and train field crews in outdoor settings.
- Experience with complex data analysis and computer-based project reporting.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Competitive hourly wages
- âś“Uniform allowance
- âś“Training and professional development
- âś“Government housing options (limited availability)
- âś“Direct Deposit program enrollment
đź’ˇ How to Apply Biological Science Technician (Fisheries)(Seasonal) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Biological Science Technician (Fisheries)(Seasonal) Job
- Carefully review the entire job announcement for specific documentation requirements.
- Prepare a resume that does not exceed two single-sided pages, ensuring dates (month/year) and hours worked are clearly stated.
- Complete the required online assessment questionnaire via the USAJOBS portal.
- Submit all required documentation, including college transcripts, by the closing date.
- Monitor your USAJOBS account for application status updates.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Keep your resume strictly to two pages or less to avoid automatic disqualification.
- Be specific about your work hours per week; avoid vague terms like 'full-time' without context.
- Use the preview link to understand the questionnaire before starting your official application.
- Remove any photographs from your documents to remain eligible.
- Double-check that all transcripts are legible and include your name and GPA/course details.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a permanent position?
No, this is a temporary, seasonal appointment, not to exceed 1039 hours per service year.
Can I submit more than one resume?
No, you may only submit one. Only your latest submission will be reviewed.
Is government housing guaranteed?
No, government housing may be available but is not guaranteed. You should contact the park directly for details.
What does 'Seasonal' mean in this context?
It means the position is temporary, with a defined season (typically March to October), and is subject to funding and project needs.