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Fish Biologist Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Restoration Engineer

Portland, OR · On-site

$103K - $136K/yr

Designing fish passage solutions, engineered log jams, channel realignments, habitat and floodplain ... Familiarity with Pacific Northwest fisheries biology and environmental regulatory frameworks.

Restoration Engineer

Portland, OR · On-site

$103K - $136K/yr

Designing fish passage solutions, engineered log jams, channel realignments, habitat and floodplain ... Familiarity with Pacific Northwest fisheries biology and environmental regulatory frameworks.

Showing results 21-27

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 Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for fish biologist in Portland, OR is $74,215.00, 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.
Infographic showing various Fish Biologist job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Part Time. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,215 per year, or $35.7 per hour.

Restoration Engineer

Anchor QEA

Portland, OR • On-site

$103K - $136K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

Title:  Restoration Engineer

Location:  Portland Oregon

Job Type:  Regular Full-time


What’s the Opportunity?

Anchor QEA is seeking a full-time senior-level engineer and project manager to support Anchor QEA in the delivery of innovative projects across the Pacific Northwest and nationwide, including marsh and estuary restoration, coastal restoration, riverine and stream restoration, compensatory mitigation, fish passage, living shorelines and engineering with nature and nature-based solutions. The applicant will have 8 or more years of experience providing restoration-related field assessments, data collection and analysis, hydraulic and hydrologic modeling, geomorphic and habitat assessment support, fish passage and restoration design, and construction and project management.

We are committed to investing in the right person and to providing support to foster your professional success and long-term impact.


Responsibilities:

As a senior engineer and project manager, you’ll lead restoration projects from concept to construction, collaborating closely with clients, partners, and interdisciplinary teams. Your work will include:

  • Leading hydrologic, hydraulic, and geomorphic analyses to support estuarine, river, stream, coastal, and/or floodplain restoration.
  • Designing fish passage solutions, engineered log jams, channel realignments, habitat and floodplain enhancement projects.
  • Preparing detailed design plans, specifications, cost estimates, and construction documents.
  • Managing project teams, budgets, scopes, and schedules for complex, multi-stakeholder projects.
  • Assisting with the development of competitive proposals.
  • Providing field oversight during construction, including adaptive design and troubleshooting.
  • Mentoring junior engineers and contributing to technical review and quality assurance.
  • Engaging directly with tribes, state and federal agencies, conservation districts, and non-profits to deliver high-impact restoration outcomes.


What Are We Looking For?

We’re seeking a collaborative, solutions-oriented engineer who’s ready to step into a leadership role. The ideal candidate will have:

  • B.S. or M.S. degree in civil, hydraulic, water resources engineering, or related discipline.
  • 8 or more years experience in river, stream, floodplain, or fish passage restoration design with a minimum of 3 years of project management experience.
  • Professional Engineer (PE) license in Washington or Oregon (or ability to obtain within one year).
  • Proven ability to lead projects, including client engagement, scope and task management, budget oversight, and schedule coordination
  • Proven skills in hydraulic, hydrologic and sediment transport modeling of riverine or coastal systems (e.g., HEC-RAS 1D/2D, SRH-2D) and geomorphic assessments.
  • Proficiency in AutoCAD Civil 3D, ArcGIS, and related design tools.
  • Experience with construction observation, field data collection, and field engineering.
  • Willingness to travel seasonally for field work and construction projects for up to 2 weeks at a time.
  • Strong communication skills and the ability to work across disciplines and with diverse stakeholders.


Bonus experience includes:

  • Experience with large wood design, sediment transport analysis, or drone-based field surveying.
  • Familiarity with Pacific Northwest fisheries biology and environmental regulatory frameworks.
  • Experience supporting proposal development and business growth initiatives.


What Can You Expect? 

A collaborative work environment where we encourage everyone to bring their authentic self. We offer competitive compensation and benefits which are detailed below. 

Who Are We?

Anchor QEA provides environmental planning, science, and engineering consulting services with the mission of transforming our environment and communities with integrity and vibe. With more than 500 people in offices across the United States, our collective vision is to be an inclusive, sustainable, and growing environmental innovator making generational impacts. By embodying our core values, we strive to be our clients’ first choice for solving their most challenging problems and to be our employees’ reason to be excited about going to work each morning. Learn more about Anchor QEA at
www.anchorqea.com.  

How to Apply?

Apply online through Anchor QEA’s Open Positions page at https://www.anchorqea.com/careers/careers-open-positions/.  Veterans are encouraged to apply. 



Applicants with a disability, who require a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process, may e-mail their request to recruitment@anchorqea.com


Additional Information 

We work hard to embrace diversity and inclusion. As an equal opportunity employer, Anchor QEA is committed to a diverse, multi-cultural work environment. Anchor QEA does not discriminate in employment based on age, race, creed, gender, religion, marital status, veteran’s status, national origin, disability or sexual orientation.  Employment is contingent upon satisfactory results of a comprehensive background check.

Salary and Other Compensation:

  • Annual Bonus
  • Other potential bonus types: Billable Time Bonus, Spot Bonus, Milestone Anniversary Bonus, Receiving Professional License/Certification Bonus, Peer-reviewed Publication Bonus, Employee Referral Bonus.

Base Level Benefits for Regular Full-Time Positions:

  • Healthcare: Medical, dental, vision, basic life and AD&D insurance, short- and long-term disability programs.
  • Paid Company and Floating Holidays: 7 paid company and 2 floating holidays annually
  • Vacation: 2 weeks accrued paid vacation based on length of service. Vacation may vary by level.
  • Sick and Safe Time: 80 hours annually
  • Retirement Plan: 401k plan with an employer match

  • Further information on benefits: https://anchorqea.com/careers/benefits/