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Fish Biologist Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Fish and Wildlife Services (USFWS) and California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) Approved Biologist requirements. * Previously approved by USFWS and/or CDFW as a Designated Biologist on ...

Biologist

Roseville, CA · On-site

$34.50 - $46/hr

Biologist Department: Environmental Employment Type: Full Time Location: Roseville, CA Compensation ... Department of Fish and Wildlife Section 1602, Federal and State Endangered Species Take ...

Biologist

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$34.50 - $46/hr

Biologist Department: Environmental Employment Type: Full Time Location: Sacramento, CA ... Department of Fish and Wildlife Section 1602, Federal and State Endangered Species Take ...

Biologist

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$34.50 - $46/hr

... Department of Fish and Wildlife Section 1602, Federal and State Endangered Species Take ... Bachelor's degree in biology, ecology, environmental planning, or related environmental science ...

Biologist

Roseville, CA · On-site

$34.50 - $46/hr

... Department of Fish and Wildlife Section 1602, Federal and State Endangered Species Take ... Bachelor's degree in biology, ecology, environmental planning, or related environmental science ...

... Fish and Game Code Section 1602 Streambed Alteration Agreements; and * Working knowledge of federal and state regulations pertaining to biological resources, including (but not limited to) the ...

... Fish and Game Code Section 1602 Streambed Alteration Agreements; and * Working knowledge of federal and state regulations pertaining to biological resources, including (but not limited to) the ...

... Fish and Game Code Section 1602 Streambed Alteration Agreements; and * Working knowledge of federal and state regulations pertaining to biological resources, including (but not limited to) the ...

... Fish and Game Code Section 1602 Streambed Alteration Agreements; and * Working knowledge of federal and state regulations pertaining to biological resources, including (but not limited to) the ...

ICF is currently seeking a senior fisheries biologist to support their growing acoustic telemetry services as part of the Fish and Aquatic Science and Technology (FAST) Team. This person will conduct ...

Complete protocol level surveys for these species and be recognized by the US Fish and Wildlife ... The Biologist will be responsible for any of the above biological study and environmental ...

Showing results 21-40

Fish Biologist information

See California salary details

$33.1K

$69.1K

$111K

How much do fish biologist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for fish biologist in California is $69,064.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,800.00 and $81,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by fish biologists when conducting field research?

Fish biologists often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather conditions, difficult terrain, and the need to adhere to strict environmental regulations during field research. Additionally, capturing and monitoring aquatic species can be physically demanding and requires specialized equipment and safety precautions. Collaboration with local agencies, landowners, and other scientists is also essential to ensure research is conducted ethically and effectively. Overcoming these challenges is key to collecting accurate data and advancing conservation efforts.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a fish biologist?

To thrive as a Fish Biologist, you need a solid background in biology, ecology, and fisheries science, typically supported by a bachelor's or master's degree in a related field. Familiarity with statistical analysis software, GIS tools, and data collection methods is important, along with any relevant certifications like SCUBA for field research. Strong observational, analytical, and communication skills help you work effectively with teams and present research findings. These skills ensure accurate data collection, effective resource management, and impactful conservation efforts.

What does a fish biologist do?

A Fish Biologist studies fish and their habitats to understand their biology, behavior, and ecology. They may conduct field research, collect and analyze data, and work to conserve fish populations and aquatic environments. Fish Biologists often collaborate with government agencies, environmental organizations, and fisheries to develop management strategies and ensure sustainable practices. Their work helps protect aquatic ecosystems and supports healthy fish populations for future generations.
What cities in California are hiring for Fish Biologist jobs? Cities in California with the most Fish Biologist job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Fish Biologist jobs in CA? For Fish Biologist jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Fish Biologist job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 2% Temporary. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,064 per year, or $33.2 per hour.

$40K/yr

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

These positions are Biological Science Technicians (Fish), GS- 0404-5/6, with a full performance GS-07 working in Red Bluff, CA for the R8-Red Bluff Fish and Wildlife Office.

Salary Range Information (Per Annum):
GS-05, Step 01- $40,736- Step 10 $52,957
GS-06, Step 01- $45,409- Step 10 $59,031
*First time hires to the federal government typically start at the beginning salary in the range for their respective grade level.

Qualifications:

Qualifications:

All qualifications must be met by the closing date of this announcement-08/19/2026-unless otherwise stated in this vacancy announcement.

To receive credit for experience, your resume MUST state either "full-time" (or "40 hours a week") or "part-time" with the number of hours worked per week to ensure proper crediting of specialized experience. Failure to adequately provide information needed to determine number of hours worked in each position may result in that time not being credited when evaluating qualifying experience. For periods of time that reflect military service, the DD-214 or Statement of Service is sufficient to meet the full and/or part-time hours requirement as the service dates will be reflected.
Minimum Qualification Requirements: To qualify for this position, you must meet the following minimum qualifications:

Minimum Qualifications [GS-5]
A) One year of specialized experience comparable in scope and responsibility equivalent to grade GS-4 in the Federal service. Examples of specialized experience may include: 1) Performing work in an outdoor setting including all types of weather and terrain to include water; 2) Handling juvenile and adult fish; and 3) Use of computer applications. OR
B) Possess four years of education above high school (120 semester hours or 180 quarter hours) leading to a (full four-year course of study) bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university, with coursework related to the biological sciences such as: biology, chemistry, statistics, entomology, animal husbandry, botany, physics, agriculture, mathematics, etc. (You MUST submit a copy of your transcripts indicating the degree earned, credit hours, and course titles in order to qualify based on education). You must include transcripts. OR
C) Possess a combination of education and experience as described above. To combine education and the number of semester hours (or equivalent) earned towards a bachelor's degree, in excess of 60 semester hours, and divide by 60 semester hours (or equivalent) Then take the number of months of full-time experience and divide by 12 months. Add the percentages together. The total must equal at least 100 percent to qualify. You must have at least 24 semester hours in any combination of courses such as: biology, chemistry, statistics, entomology, animal husbandry, botany, physics, agriculture, mathematics, etc. (You MUST submit a copy of your transcripts indicating the number of credit hours in order to qualify based on the combination option).
Minimum Qualifications [GS-6]
A) One year of specialized experience comparable in scope and responsibility equivalent to grade GS-5 in the Federal service. Examples of specialized experience may include: 1) Performing work in an outdoor setting including all types of weather, swiftwater, rough terrain, and river wading; 2) Handling juvenile and adult fish; and 3) Use of Microsoft Suite applications. OR
B) Successfully completed one-half year of graduate education (9 semester/13.5 quarter hours, or the school's equivalent) in an accredited college or university that included courses directly related to the occupation, such as fishery biology, ichthyology, limnology, aqua culture, etc. NOTE: To qualify under this option, you must submit transcripts (official or unofficial) to verify your education. OR
C) A combination of specialized experience (as described in A above) and education (as described in B above,) that, when prorated, combine to meet the qualification requirements for this position. Experience and education are each computed as percentages of their respective requirements and must equal 100 percent when combined. (Only education beyond the second year is creditable to meet this standard.)NOTE: To qualify under this option you must submit transcripts to verify your education and include proof of your experience in the text of your resume.

Volunteer Experience: Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.Education:

You must submit a copy of your transcript(s) to support claimed education if substituting education for experience. Transcripts must include your name, school name, grades, credit hours earned, major(s), grade point average or class ranking, and date the degree was conferred, if applicable. A typed list of courses, grades, semester/quarter hours, GPA, etc. will not be accepted. Non-submission may result in being rated not qualified for the position. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable, but if you are selected for this position and you used your education to qualify, you must provide official transcripts before you begin work.

Foreign Education: To receive credit for education completed outside the United States, you must show proof that the education has been submitted to a private organization that specializes in interpretation of foreign educational credentials and such education has been deemed at least equivalent to that gained in conventional U.S. education programs. Recognition of Foreign Qualifications | U.S. Department of Education. https://www.ed.gov/about/initiatives/international-affairs/recognition-of-foreign-qualification

Employment Type: OTHER