Ecologist Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

WILDLIFE SPECIALIST 2
"Aquatic Wildlife (Reservoir) Specialist"
FIELD OPERATIONS DIVISION / REGION 6 / MESA, ARIZONA BASED
FLSA-EXEMPT / SALARY GRADE 21 / HIRING SALARY RANGE $48,400 - $55,000
Are you ready to turn your expertise in aquatic biology and fisheries management into a tangible, on-the-ground impact? We are looking for a dedicated Aquatic Wildlife (Reservoir) Specialist to join our team in Region 6. If you thrive in the field, excel in data-driven management, and want to actively manage and work with sportfish around our reservoirs throughout the state, your next adventure starts here!
The future of Arizona's diverse aquatic ecosystems and fishing heritage depends on precise science and relentless dedication. In this pivotal role, you will be the waders in the water and the technical advisor behind specialized sportfish and aquatic conservation efforts. From leading critical habitat monitoring to managing sportfish populations around reservoirs, your work directly contributes to Arizona's conservation mission and the sustainability of these vital populations. You won't just monitor aquatic health; you will actively shape the legacy of water, angling, and wildlife conservation in Arizona for generations to come.
What You'll Do
 Lead Aquatic Field Ops: Plan and implement population and habitat surveys, including sportfish species projects and active management of sportfish populations in reservoirs across the state.
Manage Sportfish Fisheries: Utilize scientific methods to enhance sportfish populations and coordinate warm water fish stockings to maintain healthy fisheries.
 Assess Water Projects: Evaluate water and habitat projects, recommending mitigation strategies to protect aquatic wildlife, ensure ecological balance, and sustain viable populations.
 Data-Driven Management: Analyze complex biological data to produce technical, summary, and annual reports, while preparing findings for diverse audiences including stakeholders and scientific partners.
 Collaborate and Mentor: Provide technical guidance, lead field teams, and coordinate with federal, state, and community partners to support sustainable aquatic ecosystems.
 Stakeholder Engagement: Act as a key representative, conducting fisheries outreach, workshops, and clinics to engage the public and angler groups in championing Arizona's aquatic heritage.
Why AZGFD?
At Arizona Game and Fish, conservation is personal. Our employees are deeply connected to the landscapes and wildlife they protect. We value stewardship, teamwork, partnerships, and professional growth, and we support our staff with training and career development opportunities. If you're ready to make a measurable impact on wildlife conservation, we encourage you to apply and become part of Arizona's conservation mission!

Regional level aquatics specialist with in-depth knowledge of the discipline working with sportfish around reservoirs throughout the state. Studies the physical characteristics of aquatic wildlife and their behaviors, and the impacts humans have on habitats. Coordinates and implements fish and wildlife management actions, evaluates water projects for impacts to aquatic wildlife, including endangered species, and recommends Department actions on projects and proposes mitigation when appropriate. Participates in interdisciplinary planning teams and develops habitat plans for the Department. Works to ensure that there will be viable aquatic wildlife populations in the future.
Major duties will include:
Plans, organizes, analyzes, conducts and coordinates fish population surveys in the regional waters using creel, various nets, traps, and electrofishing gear.
Analyzes data, writes trip, summary, quarterly, and annual reports. Prepares materials for presentations to scientific conferences, department personnel, other agencies, general public, and/or the media.
Provides consultation and technical advice within specialty areas and is expected to make public presentations.
Develop and make fish management recommendations.
Conduct fisheries outreach activities (fishing clinic, fishing techniques workshops...) and communicate with the public (giving presentations, via email, in the field, and over the phone).
Coordinate planned work activities with regional personnel, government agencies, and volunteers.
Coordinate warm water fish stockings and make recommendations for stocking changes.
Purchase and maintain fisheries equipment and supplies.
Administer special licenses.
Other duties as assigned, as relates to the position.

Candidate must have knowledge of/in: fish, advanced biology, or closely related field; fish and wildlife management techniques and application; fish biology, fish populations dynamics; fish surveys, creel design, and application techniques; rules, regulations, policies, and procedures; federal, state, and agency rules, regulations, policies, and procedures; best management practices for various fisheries related duties, and effective training and leadership techniques.
Candidate must have skills in: application of fisheries management techniques; use of agency radio systems; employing GPS devices and technology; using computers, cameras and other necessary tools and equipment; data entry and analysis; use various modes of transportation, such as horses & mules, boats, 4-wheel drive vehicles and ATVS; first aid and survival skills; skilled in supervising subordinates and developing an effective and functional team; equipment and maintenance repairs; written and oral communication and public relations techniques; process and procedures to administer special licenses.
Candidate must have the ability to: develop effecting and positive working relationships with the public, tribes, various local, state, and federal government agencies, special interest groups, and the media; provide positive and effective customer service to a variety of internal and external customers; negotiate with agencies, individuals, and other entities in support of program area and the Department's mission; effectively communicate orally and in writing for wide variety and level of audiences, including agency leadership; work irregular hours, including weekends, holidays and at night, and work outdoors in extreme isolated conditions; identify wildlife in less than optimal conditions; obtain special certifications as required.

 Experience in aquatic wildlife and fisheries management, particularly regarding sportfish species and population monitoring.
 Proficiency in planning and implementing aquatic field projects, including limnological monitoring, and habitat assessments.
 Proven experience leading or supervising field teams, including technicians, interns, and/or volunteers, in remote or complex environmental conditions.
 Experience operating, maintaining, and repairing specialized aquatic field equipment and watercraft.
 Demonstrated ability to analyze biological data, prepare technical reports, and coordinate effectively with diverse stakeholders and scientific partners.

The candidate must have a Bachelors or advanced degree in wildlife and/or fisheries sciences or closely related field from an accredited college or university and two years professional experience in fisheries and/or wildlife research/management.
Position requires possession of and the ability to retain a current, valid state-issued driver's license appropriate to the assignment.
Employment is also contingent upon completion of a post-offer medical/physical examination and the agency's ability to reasonably accommodate any restrictions.

If this position requires driving or the use of a vehicle as an essential function of the job to conduct State business, then the following requirements apply: Driver's License Requirements.

All newly hired State employees are subject to and must successfully complete the Electronic Employment Eligibility Verification Program (E-Verify).

The State of Arizona offers an outstanding comprehensive benefits package including:
 13 days' of vacation
 12 sick days
 10 paid holidays
 Tuition Reimbursement Program
 Participation in the nationally recognized Arizona State Retirement System
 Superior health care options
 Vision care, dental care, pharmacy benefits, and flexible spending account (options available)
 Life, long-term disability, and short-term disability insurance options are available
 Many more benefit programs are available

Learn more about the Paid Parental Leave program here. For a complete list of benefits provided by The State of Arizona, please visit our benefits page

Positions in this classification participate in the Arizona State Retirement System (ASRS). Please note, enrollment eligibility will become effective after 27 weeks of employment.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact Nicole Baker at nbaker@azgfd.gov for assistance. The Arizona Game and Fish Department is an Equal Employment Opportunity agency.