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Fish Biologist Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Tetra Tech, Inc.

Environmental Scientist

Portland, OR · On-site

$79K - $104K/yr

... restoration, biological studies, environmental assessments, permit applications, and NEPA ... Permitting fish passage restoration projects in Washington This position offers diverse project ...

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All JobsFish Biologist JobsFish Biologist Jobs in Portland, OR

Fish Biologist information

See Portland, OR salary details

$35.5K

$74.2K

$119.3K

How much do fish biologist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for fish biologist in Portland, OR is $74,223.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,700.00 and $87,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

How much does a fish biologist make?

A fish biologist's salary varies by experience, location, and employer, but the median annual wage in the field is around $60,000 to $70,000. Entry-level positions typically start lower, while those with advanced degrees or specialized skills can earn over $80,000 annually.

What can you do with a fish biologist degree?

A fish biologist degree prepares individuals for careers in research, conservation, and management of aquatic ecosystems. Fish biologists often work for government agencies, environmental organizations, or research institutions, conducting field studies, data analysis, and environmental assessments. Skills in biology, ecology, and the use of tools like GIS and sampling equipment are essential for these roles.

What are popular job titles related to Fish Biologist jobs in Portland, OR?

For Fish Biologist jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Fish Biologist jobs in Portland, OR look for?

The top searched job categories for Fish Biologist jobs in Portland, OR are:

Fish Biologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Fish Biologist job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,223 per year, or $35.7 per hour.

Fish and Wildlife Biologist

Internships | Texas A&M University Kingsville

Vancouver, WA

$89K/yr

Full-time, Part-time

Posted yesterday

New

Job description

This position is a FISH AND WILDLIFE BIOLOGIST, GS- 0401-12. There are two vacancies in the following locations:

  • Washington Fish and Wildlife Office (Lacey, Vancouver, or Wenatchee, WA)
  • Idaho Fish and Wildlife Office
Qualifications:All qualifications must be met by the closing date of this announcement - 09/10/2026-unless otherwise stated in this vacancy announcement. Competitive candidates must also meet Time-in-Grade requirements as defined in 5 CFR 300, Subpart F.
For current Federal employees, if hours worked per week are not included on your resume, you must submit a non-award SF-50 as part of your application to be used to validate your work schedule and determine the amount of specialized experience that you will be granted. An award SF-50 will not be acceptable documentation for which to consider your amount of qualifying experience. For periods of time that reflect military service, the DD-214 or Statement of Service is sufficient to meet the work schedule requirement as the service dates will be reflected. For all other applicants who are not current federal employees, 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.

Minimum Qualification Requirements: To qualify for this position, you must meet the following minimum qualifications:

To qualify for this position, you must meet the following minimum qualifications: Basic Educational Requirement AND Specialized Experience for the series to which you are applying.

Basic Educational Requirements: In addition to the specialized experience requirements for this position, you must meet at least one of the following:
A. Degree: Possess a degree in biological sciences, agriculture, natural resource management, chemistry, or related disciplines appropriate to the position. You must submit transcripts.
-OR-
B. Combination of education and experience: course work as shown in A above, plus appropriate experience or additional education.

-AND-

To qualify for this position at the GS-12 grade level:
A. Experience: To qualify, you must possess at least one full year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-11 level in the Federal service (obtained in either the public or private sectors). Specialized experience is defined as demonstrated experience: coordinating and facilitating activities pursuant to sections of the Endangered Species Act; coordinating wide-ranging initiatives to fully implement Endangered Species Act programs; building strong partnerships with Federal, State, Tribal, and private entities to support conservation outcomes; analyzing proposed projects for potential impacts to trust resources, applying ecological knowledge, regulatory understanding, and science-based evaluation methods; managing complex projects by developing timelines, collaborating and negotiating with internal and external partners, and reviewing and monitoring deliverables to ensure timely completion and required quality to support conservation and recovery actions for trust species.

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:This position has a mandatory education requirement.
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. For more information on how foreign education is evaluated, visit: https://www.ed.gov/about/initiatives/international-affairs/recognition-of-foreign-qualificationsEmployment Type: OTHER

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