Fisheries Biologist 2026-01323

General Description

The Wyoming Game and Fish Department is seeking a Regional Fisheries Biologist to help conserve, protect, and enhance the aquatic resources of western Wyoming. This position plays a key role in managing fisheries and aquatic habitats throughout the Wind and Sweetwater River drainages, as well as the Wind River and Absaroka mountain ranges.

The successful candidate will contribute to fisheries management, biological research, habitat conservation, and public outreach efforts that support Wyoming's diverse aquatic resources and recreational opportunities. This is an exciting opportunity to work in some of the state's most scenic and ecologically important landscapes while helping sustain high-quality fisheries for future generations.

Essential Functions

• Work collaboratively as a member of the Regional Fishery Management team to provide diverse, quality fisheries resources and angling opportunities in balance with the productive capacity of habitats and public desires in the Lander Region.
• Act as the primary public contact on fisheries issues for specific waters.
• With appropriate training, lead sampling efforts involving electrofishing, netting, and other fish collection gears on boats and rafts or while wading.
• Collect and analyze fish population dynamics, life history, aquatic habitat, and anglers' use information to manage and conserve regional fisheries.
• Recommend and implement fisheries management activities such as regulations, fish stocking, nonnative fish removal, and habitat management to accomplish Department objectives using sound scientific methods and public involvement.
• Implement the State Wildlife Action Plan to conserve and restore native aquatic species and their habitats.
• Plan, coordinate, and implement chemical treatments to remove undesirable or invasive organisms, including the application of rotenone to restore Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout populations.
• Assist with the development of annual progress reports, work schedules, budgets, stocking requests, angler outreach, reports, data entry, and equipment maintenance.
• Work cooperatively with tribal, federal, state, and local organizations with shared responsibility for aquatic resource management.
• Give presentations on fishery management topics to the public and professional groups.
• Hire and train seasonal employees and supervise their work.
• Assist in the implementation of the Wyoming Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) program, including maintaining certification as a watercraft inspector.
• Provide written comments on activities that may impact aquatic resources, suggesting remedial or mitigating actions.
• Keep updated on new fisheries techniques and research by attending professional meetings, reading literature, and interacting with other fisheries professionals.

Preferences / Agency Requirements

• Preference will be given to applicants with a Master's degree in fishery biology, biology, zoology, ichthyology, or wildlife management, plus two years of professional work experience in fisheries management, aquatic resource research or aquatic habitat management.
• Preference will be given to applicants who attach a cover letter and resume with their online state application.
• Agency requires that the successful applicant have a valid driver's license.

Knowledge

• Decision-making ability and analytical, oral, and written communication and interpersonal skills.
• Experience with fish population sampling equipment and procedures used on standing and flowing waters.
• Experience safely operating watercraft on rivers and lakes.
• Knowledge of fishery management concepts and practices.
• Knowledge of western aquatic resource conservation and management challenges.

Minimum Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's Degree (typically in Wildlife Management).

Experience: 1-2 years progressive work experience (typically in Wildlife Management) with acquired knowledge at the level of a Wildlife Biologist II.

Education & Experience Substitution: 4-6 years of progressive work experience (typically in Wildlife Management) with acquired knowledge at the level of a Wildlife Biologist II.

Physical Working Conditions

• Ability to perform fieldwork on lakes and streams in remote wilderness settings and under adverse weather conditions.
• Ability to conduct fieldwork in areas occupied by grizzly bears.
• Ability to work in a collaborative regional office environment and be available to the public.
• Occasional night and weekend work required.
• Some overnight travel will be required.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Paid vacation, sick leave, FMLA, and holidays.
• Retirement – Pension and 457B plans.
• Flexible schedules and work-life balance options.

How to Apply

For questions, contact Human Resources: Dezzaree Schott at dezzaree.schott@wyo.gov.