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Fish Biology Jobs in Reno, NV (NOW HIRING)

BIOLOGIST 4

Carson City, NV · On-site

$70K - $104K/yr

Coordinates closely with fish hatchery personnel on regional stocking plans and timelines. Assists ... Essential Qualifications Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in biology ...

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BIOLOGIST 3

Carson City, NV · On-site

$64K - $95K/yr

Essential Qualifications Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in biology ... Organize and implement fish, wildlife, botanical and habitat surveys; identify survey areas and ...

Fish Biology information

What does a fish biologist do?

Fish biologists, also known as ichthyologists, study fish species, their habitats, and their interactions with the environment. Their work often involves conducting field research, monitoring fish populations, assessing the health of aquatic ecosystems, and developing conservation strategies. They may also work on projects related to fisheries management, endangered species protection, or habitat restoration. Fish biologists can be employed by government agencies, research institutions, or environmental organizations.

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

To thrive as a Fish Biologist, you need a solid understanding of aquatic biology, ecology, and research methodologies, typically supported by a degree in biology, fisheries science, or a related field. Experience with data analysis software (such as R or GIS), field sampling equipment, and often certifications in SCUBA diving or electrofishing are commonly required. Strong observation skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are essential soft skills for collaboration and reporting findings. These competencies ensure accurate research, effective conservation efforts, and successful management of aquatic resources.

What are some common challenges fish biologists face when conducting fieldwork?

Fish biologists often encounter challenges such as working in remote or difficult-to-access aquatic environments, dealing with unpredictable weather, and ensuring the safety and ethical treatment of wildlife during sampling. Adaptability and problem-solving skills are important, as field conditions can change rapidly. Additionally, coordinating with local stakeholders or regulatory agencies is often necessary to ensure compliance and effective data collection.

What is the difference between Fish Biology vs Marine Biology?

AspectFish BiologyMarine Biology
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Marine Biology, Fisheries Science, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in Marine Biology, Oceanography, or related fields
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, fieldwork in freshwater and coastal habitatsOpen ocean, coastal areas, research vessels
Industry UsageResearch, conservation, fisheries managementResearch, conservation, ecosystem studies

Fish Biology focuses specifically on the study of fish species, their physiology, behavior, and ecology, often involving freshwater and coastal environments. Marine Biology covers a broader range of marine organisms and ecosystems, including fish, invertebrates, and marine plants, typically in open ocean settings. Both careers require similar educational backgrounds but differ in their scope and work environments.

How much does a fish biologist make?

A fish biologist's salary varies by experience, education, and location, but the median annual wage in the field is around $60,000 to $70,000. Entry-level positions typically start lower, while experienced professionals or those with advanced degrees can earn over $80,000 annually. Skills in research, data analysis, and fieldwork are important for higher earning potential.

What can you do with a fish biology degree?

A fish biology degree prepares individuals for careers in research, conservation, and management of aquatic ecosystems. Graduates can work as fish biologists, environmental consultants, aquaculture specialists, or in wildlife agencies, often requiring fieldwork, data analysis, and knowledge of aquatic species and habitats.

What are popular job titles related to Fish Biology jobs in Reno, NV?

For Fish Biology jobs in Reno, NV, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Fish Biology jobs in Reno, NV look for?

The top searched job categories for Fish Biology jobs in Reno, NV are:

Infographic showing various Fish Biology job openings in Reno, NV as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

$70K - $104K/yr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New


State Of Nevada rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 56 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

39th of 50 rated states


Job description

***THIS RECRUITMENT MAY CLOSE WITHOUT FURTHER NOTICE DEPENDING ON THE NUMBER OF APPLICATIONS RECEIVED. APPLICANTS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY AS SOON AS POSSIBLE*** Job Summary This is a supervisory position in the Western Region of the Fisheries Division within Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW). The position is responsible for providing supervision, guidance, and direction consistent with NDOW programs, planning direction and policies.

Incumbent supervises up to five Fisheries Division field biologist and technician positions and oversees a workforce of part-time seasonal employees. Incumbent implements regional work programs for sport fisheries, native aquatic species, and aquatic invasive species management programs. Coordinates closely with fish hatchery personnel on regional stocking plans and timelines.

Assists in development of and manages implementation and budgets for Federal Aid Sport Fish Restoration grants and other Federal and non-Federal grants; develops annual work programs for fisheries and non-game aquatic species projects; monitors for compliance of projects with State and Federal guidelines. Develops and coordinates implementation of conservation and recovery projects for Federally listed and state protected aquatic wildlife species. Coordinates with and develops and implements cooperative projects and programs to benefit aquatic species and habitats with multiple Federal, State and private partners.

Biologists conduct fisheries, wildlife, botanical and/or habitat management projects and research studies including data collection, analysis and interpretation; develop and implement project proposals and work plans; prepare recommendations; and participate in public relations activities. Essential Qualifications Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in biology, wildlife management or closely related field and four years of professional experience in wildlife, fisheries or habitat management; OR one year of experience as a Biologist III in Nevada State service; OR an equivalent combination of education and experience as described above. Job Duties Supervise and participate in wildlife, botanical and habitat studies to protect and preserve the State's wildlife and natural resources; conduct wildlife surveys and inventories to determine a population's composition, productivity, reproductive status and condition in order to develop recommendations regarding hunting seasons, stocking practices and bag limits or determine conservation status.

Organize and implement fish, wildlife, botanical and habitat surveys; identify survey areas and schedule required personnel, equipment and supplies; collect data using a variety of techniques and equipment such as field observation, helicopter and fixed-wing aircraft, electroshocking, population marking, tagging, angler/hunter questionnaires, bag checks and creel surveys. Analyze data by applying mathematical and statistical formulas to calculate population status; prepare species distribution and density maps; evaluate trend data and document the status and management needs of fish, wildlife, botanical and habitat resources; prepare species and habitat management recommendations and technical reports. Provide survey data and analysis as input to land management planning processes; review and evaluate established and proposed land, water and resource use documents; prepare correspondence and technical reports concerning the issues and consequences of proposed actions; appear before regulatory, governing and advisory boards and commissions to explain and defend the agency's position and answer questions.

Manipulate fish and wildlife populations and habitats by introducing species into suitable habitats consistent with biological and social constraints; bait and trap, tranquilize, radio collar or band wildlife and transport to selected locations; modify habitats in order to meet resource needs and associated uses; monitor released animals to assess project results. Investigate and assess damage caused by wildlife upon private property and public lands; recommend appropriate courses of action to mitigate or resolve the problem. Draft species management plans; develop season and harvest recommendations and implement related regulations; analyze and evaluate data, reports and proposals; make program recommendations in accordance with consumptive, non-consumptive and recreational needs of the public and the preservation of wildlife resources and habitats.

Coordinate State and regional level activities with other federal and State agencies, special interest groups and the public; represent the department and provide information to the public and governmental entities; make presentations; appear before governmental and regulatory bodies; prepare press releases and interact with the media; may serve on committees for the Board of Wildlife Commissioners. Perform related duties as assigned. Under general supervision, incumbents direct the operation of wildlife programs involving game, non-game, fish, botanical, and habitat within a region, in addition to performing the duties outlined above.

This is the supervisory level in this series. Incumbents train, supervise and evaluate the performance of assigned personnel; identify training needs and ensure proficiency in required areas; prepare work performance standards; assign and review work; provide technical expertise to regional personnel and others, and coordinate with other divisional supervisors in the region for effective agency operations. They also perform administrative duties such as authorizing purchases, allocating funds and monitoring budgets, develop, monitor and administer grants, oversee equipment maintenance, and ensuring compliance with contractual agreements as well as policies and procedures.

In addition, they prepare, review and edit job progress reports, incident reports, input reports, project evaluations, grant applications, and letters. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities This job specification lists the major knowledge, skills and abilities of the job and is not all inclusive. Incumbent(s) will be expected to have knowledge, skills and abilities from a previous level.

Working knowledge of: fish, wildlife and habitat management activities including surveys, population analysis, and data analysis. General knowledge of: scheduling personnel and equipment to accomplish and report results of wildlife surveys and inventory; basic principles of training and supervision. Recruiter Contact Information: Kristin Bowling - klbowling@ndow.org The State of Nevada is an equal opportunity employer dedicated to building diverse, inclusive, and innovative work environments with employees who reflect our communities and enthusiastically serve them

All applicants are considered without regard to race, color, national origin, religion or belief, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, domestic partnership, genetic information (GINA), or compensation and/or wages. Please send direct Inquiries or correspondence to the recruiter listed on this announcement.


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About State of Nevada

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The State of Nevada isn't a company in the traditional sense, but rather a governing body that manages and directs the operations of the state of Nevada. Its headquarters are located in Carson City, NV, United States. The organisation is engaged in various sectors like education, transportation, business and industry, health and human services, conservation and natural resources, and many more. It is responsible for implementing and maintaining the law and order of the state, in addition to providing essential services to its residents.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Carson City, NV, US

Year founded

1864