Become a Fish Biologist at the Chattahoochee Forest National Fish Hatchery
Are you passionate about the conservation of our nation's aquatic life? The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) is seeking a dedicated, hands-on professional to fill the role of Fish Biologist at the Chattahoochee Forest National Fish Hatchery in Suches, Georgia. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute directly to the health of aquatic ecosystems while building a career within the federal government.
Job Responsibilities
The Fish Biologist role is diverse, requiring a balance of laboratory, field, and administrative skills. You will be responsible for:
- Fish Culture: Participating in spawning, egg fertilization, incubation, and the care of fry and fingerlings.
- Health Monitoring: Performing visual and microscopic examinations to identify and treat diseases or stress in fish populations.
- Data Management: Maintaining electronic records regarding feeding schedules, water quality parameters, and broodstock inventory.
- Field Work: Participating in population assessments, surveying wild fish, and evaluating habitat conditions.
- Public Outreach: Supporting the hatchery visitor center and conducting tours and fishing events to educate the public.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, applicants must meet the following criteria:
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | Must be a U.S. Citizen or National |
| Education | Bachelor's degree in biological science with specific aquatic/animal science credits |
| Experience | At least one year of specialized experience at the GS-05 level |
| Licensing | Must maintain a valid driver's license |
| Probation | 1-year probationary period required |
Salary and Benefits
The salary for this position ranges from $50,460 to $80,243 per year. Beyond the competitive pay, employees enjoy comprehensive federal benefits, including health insurance, life insurance, retirement savings (TSP), and paid time off. Furthermore, the agency provides a uniform allowance and may offer government housing, depending on availability.
Application Tips for Success
- Resume Limits: Ensure your resume is strictly two pages long and uses at least 10-point font.
- Detail Your Hours: Clearly state the number of hours worked per week for every position listed.
- Check Documents: Ensure all transcripts clearly display your institution, courses, and degree conferral dates.
This position at the Chattahoochee Forest National Fish Hatchery is more than just a job; it is an opportunity to play a vital role in American wildlife conservation. If you meet the qualifications and are eager to work in a dynamic outdoor environment, apply by November 13, 2026, to begin your career with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
Why This Fish Biologist Job Matters
Dive into a meaningful career in conservation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, where your daily efforts directly impact the health of our nation's aquatic ecosystems.
Fish Biologist Job Overview
The Chattahoochee Forest National Fish Hatchery is seeking a dedicated Fish Biologist to join their team in Suches, Georgia. This role is essential for the sustainable management of aquatic populations, involving a dynamic mix of hands-on hatchery operations, laboratory analysis, and field-based environmental monitoring. As a team member, you will play a pivotal role in conservation efforts, ensuring the vitality of fish stocks and engaging with the public to promote awareness of our natural resources.
Requirements for Fish Biologist
- Must be a U.S. Citizen or National.
- Completion of a 1-year probationary period.
- Possession of a valid driver's license.
- Must be at least 18 years of age to operate government vehicles.
- Successful background investigation and suitability clearance.
- Compliance with uniform standards (uniform allowance provided).
- Registration with the Selective Service (for males born after 12/31/59).
- Participation in mandatory direct deposit.
Preferred Qualifications for Fish Biologist
- Bachelor's degree or higher in biological science, including at least 6 semester hours in aquatic subjects and 12 semester hours in animal sciences.
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-05 level in Federal service.
- Graduate-level education in a biological or related field.
- Experience in hatchery operations, including spawning, egg fertilization, and fry care.
- Competence in water quality monitoring, including temperature, pH, and dissolved oxygen testing.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal salary structure.
- ✓Comprehensive health and life insurance options.
- ✓Retirement savings plans including the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- ✓Paid federal holidays, sick leave, and annual leave.
- ✓Uniform allowance for required field attire.
- ✓Potential for government housing.
- ✓Professional development and training opportunities.
💡 How to Apply Fish Biologist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Fish Biologist Job
- Review the full vacancy announcement carefully.
- Prepare a resume that does not exceed two pages, clearly documenting work hours per week and specific dates.
- Obtain and organize all required academic transcripts.
- Complete the mandatory application questionnaire online.
- Submit all required documentation through the USAJOBS portal by November 13, 2026.
- Monitor your USAJOBS account for notification of application status.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume explicitly lists hours worked per week for every position to receive credit for specialized experience.
- Keep your resume concise; any document longer than two pages will be excluded from consideration.
- Check for transcript accuracy; ensure your full name, institution, and credit hours are clearly visible.
- Proofread your application to avoid any offensive or inappropriate language.
- Submit your materials well before the deadline to account for potential technical delays.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use volunteer experience to qualify for this role?
Yes, both paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work with recognized organizations, will be considered if it directly relates to the competencies required for the position.
Is this position eligible for telework?
No, the duties of this position are not suitable for telework due to the hands-on nature of hatchery operations.
Will my promotion be guaranteed if I perform well?
No, promotion to the full performance level (GS-9) is not guaranteed and depends on your performance, the existence of work at higher levels, and supervisory recommendation.
Job from U.S. Fish And Wildlife Service
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is a bureau within the Department of the Interior. The agency’s mission is to work with others to conserve, protect, and enhance fish, wildlife, plants, and their habitats. The Chattahoochee Forest National Fish Hatchery is a vital part of this national network, focusing on fishery health, population monitoring, and public education. By joining this team, you become part of a larger, mission-driven organization dedicated to environmental stewardship.