Fishery Biologist 2 (PCN 111447) - State of Alaska

What you will be doing:
This position is a permanent full-time seasonal Fishery Biologist 2 who will manage day-to-day operation of the state-of-the-art Kodiak Island Limnology Laboratory. The laboratory manager oversees the planning and implementation of field sampling and laboratory sample processing for the Westward Region (Region IV) and beyond to produce quality limnological data that will assist research and management staff to maximize salmon production.

Our organization, mission, and culture: 
The Division of Commercial Fisheries strives for a diverse and inclusive workforce where safety and well-being are paramount and employees at all levels promote a culture where everyone is valued, treated equitably, and treated respectfully.

This position plays a vital role in gathering and providing robust information used in assessing water quality, forage availability, freshwater productivity, and rearing habitat quality that drives juvenile salmonid productivity. Data collected by this position will inform stocking recommendations, escapement goal reviews and approaches to fishery management that contribute to the greater goal of sustainable fisheries for Alaska.

Benefits of joining our team: 
This position offers an outstanding opportunity to gain expertise in a variety of limnological sampling methods and sample analyses including operation of an autonomous underwater vehicle. This position will introduce the incumbent to analysis and interpretation of limnological data. It also enables the incumbent to engage with multiple stakeholders and experience the majesty of the Kodiak Island archipelago and other remote Alaska locations.

The working conditions you can expect:
This position will work in Kodiak beginning in February preparing sampling equipment and gear for the field season and drafting a sampling schedule. The field season will run from May through September comprised of limnological sampling (using handheld meters, zooplankton tow nets, Van Dorn bottle, autonomous underwater vehicle, and temperature data loggers) and lab components from May through December (reading zooplankton samples, filtering water samples, measuring water pH and alkalinity, and analyzing water samples for nutrient concentrations). This position will also ensure data entry and validation and the opportunity to conduct site visits with lab contractors.

• Requires frequent travel in a float plane (normally 2 day trips monthly).
• Requires often working in inclement weather and cold-water conditions from small planes.
• Will require working a flexible schedule, with some work at night, to achieve sampling objectives.
• Requires handling hazardous materials and proper use of personal protective equipment.

Who we are looking for:
We are looking for an individual with the following knowledge, skills, and abilities:

• Field: Knowledge of limnological sampling and sampling methods and platforms, such as from float planes and skiffs. Attentive to safety in the field.
• Lab: Knowledge of chemistry methods to determine freshwater nutrient concentrations. Maintains and safely operates lab equipment, accurately measure chemicals and samples, follows established protocol, and maintains a clean workplace. 
• Data: Knowledge of entering and editing data in databases and spreadsheets, and compiling data summaries.
• Work traits: Possesses a healthy work ethic, attention to detail and organizational skills. Meets deadlines, works independently, effectively communicates with supervisor, constructive team member supporting positive workplace culture, and performs repetitive tasks with accuracy and precision.

Professional License/Certifications: First Aid, CPR, and HAZWOPER certification.