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Fisheries Biologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Yurok Tribe (CA)

Fisheries Biologist II

Klamath, CA · On-site

$34.04 - $56.24/hr

Fisheries Biologist II will be responsible for implementation and oversight of multiple concurrent fisheries related research, monitoring, and/or restoration projects. This position is comprised ...

AIS Inc

Fisheries Biologist

Newport, OR · On-site

AIS is looking for a Fisheries Biologist to support an ongoing acoustic trawl survey. Primary Function: AIS is looking for a fisheries biologist to support an ongoing acoustic trawl survey within the ...

AIS Inc

Fisheries Biologist

Newport, OR · On-site

AIS is looking for a Fisheries Biologist to support an ongoing acoustic trawl survey. Primary Function: AIS is looking for a fisheries biologist to support an ongoing acoustic trawl survey within the ...

AIS, Inc.

Fisheries Biologist

Newport, OR · On-site

$19 - $21.50/hr

AIS is looking for a Fisheries Biologist to support an ongoing acoustic trawl survey. Primary Function: AIS is looking for a fisheries biologist to support an ongoing acoustic trawl survey within the ...

Lynker Corporation

Senior Fisheries Biologist

Seattle, WA · On-site +1

$100K - $125K/yr

Responsibilities Duties of the Senior Fisheries Biologist will include the following: * * Draft ESA effects evaluation and determination documents for HGMPs * Prepare NEPA Environmental Assessments ...

Government of the Virgin Islands

$61K - $64K/yr

OR Two (2) years at the Fisheries Biologist II level. SPECIAL NECESSARY REQUIREMENTS Scuba diving certification is required of all applicants/employees assigned to this position. Position Factors ...

Government of the Virgin Islands

$61K - $64K/yr

Trains and instructs scientific and technical personnel in proper techniques, biological and physical control of fisheries management. Prepares reports and or manuscripts suitable for publication in ...

AIS, Inc.

Fisheries Biologist

Seattle, WA · On-site

AIS is looking for a Fisheries Biologist to support the collection and analysis of habitat data as well as develop and implement salmon life cycle models for restoration planning in support of NOAAs ...

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Fisheries Biologist information

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$33.5K

$70K

$112.5K

How much do fisheries biologist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for fisheries biologist in the United States is $69,980.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,500.00 and $82,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges fisheries biologists face in fieldwork, and how are they typically addressed?

Fisheries Biologists often work in remote or aquatic environments, which can present challenges such as unpredictable weather, difficult terrain, and limited access to resources. To address these issues, biologists typically undergo safety training, use specialized equipment, and coordinate closely with team members to ensure effective data collection. Additionally, adapting fieldwork schedules and maintaining flexibility are crucial for managing unexpected changes in environmental conditions. Collaboration with local agencies and stakeholders also helps mitigate logistical and regulatory hurdles.

What is a fisheries biologist?

Fisheries Biologists are scientists who study fish populations and their habitats to ensure the sustainability of fisheries and aquatic ecosystems. They conduct research on fish behavior, health, reproduction, and environmental impacts, often using data to create management plans for fisheries. Their work helps balance the needs of commercial and recreational fishing with conservation efforts, ensuring healthy fish populations for the future.

What does a fisheries biologist do?

A fisheries biologist specializes in the study of fish and management of natural and environmental factors that impact fisheries. They can either work in conservation, for a government or non-profit organization, or in the commercial sector. Your workplace and goals may vary by employer, but many of your duties remain the same. As a fisheries biologist, your responsibilities include conducting experiments, collecting wildlife and environmental samples, and studying everything regarding fish from population to migration. You use the data you collect to collaborate with a team of professionals from varying backgrounds to determine what factors are impacting marine life. Depending on the sector in which you work, you may advise on environmental regulation proposals to help maintain fishery populations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a fisheries biologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Fisheries Biologist, you need a solid background in biology, ecology, and statistics, usually supported by at least a bachelor's degree in fisheries science or a related field. Familiarity with data analysis software, GIS systems, and field sampling equipment is typically required. Strong observational skills, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are crucial soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are vital for accurately assessing fish populations, informing resource management decisions, and collaborating with stakeholders to ensure sustainable fisheries.

What is the difference between Fisheries Biologist vs Marine Biologist?

AspectFisheries BiologistMarine Biologist
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Fisheries, Marine Biology, or related fieldBachelor's or Master's in Marine Biology, Oceanography, or related field
Work EnvironmentFreshwater and coastal environments, fisheries management facilitiesOpen ocean, coral reefs, marine protected areas
Employer & IndustryGovernment agencies, fisheries management, research institutionsResearch institutions, environmental organizations, universities
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Fisheries Biologists primarily focus on managing and conserving fish populations in freshwater and coastal environments, often working with fisheries management agencies. Marine Biologists study marine organisms in open ocean and reef ecosystems, with a broader focus on marine life. While both roles require similar educational backgrounds and work in aquatic environments, their specific focus areas and work settings differ.

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Fisheries Biologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Fisheries Biologist job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,980 per year, or $33.6 per hour.

Regulatory Fisheries Biologist

H R Computer Consulting Services

Remote

$80K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Vision insurance

Title - Regulatory Fisheries Biologist
Client: NOAA National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) - West Coast Region
Location: Remote (Off-site)
Employment Type: Full-Time Contractor
Position Overview
NOAA National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), West Coast Region, is seeking a Regulatory Fisheries Biologist / ESA Consultation Specialist to provide scientific, technical, and regulatory support for Endangered Species Act (ESA) consultations and environmental compliance activities. This position supports the evaluation of federal actions affecting salmon, steelhead, protected marine species, essential fish habitat, and aquatic ecosystems throughout the Pacific Northwest and California.
The successful candidate will prepare scientifically sound and legally defensible environmental and regulatory documents in accordance with the Endangered Species Act (ESA), Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act (MSA), National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act (FWCA), Federal Power Act (FPA), and Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA)
This is a remote position requiring availability during Pacific Time business hours, with periodic travel for regional meetings, field visits, and collaboration with NOAA personnel.
Key Responsibilities
  • Review, analyze, and synthesize biological, ecological, engineering, and project information to evaluate potential impacts on fishery resources, protected species, critical habitat, essential fish habitat, and aquatic ecosystems.
  • Prepare, review, and revise technical and regulatory documents, including:
    • ESA Biological Opinions
    • Letters of Concurrence
    • ESA Section 10 permit documentation
    • Magnuson-Stevens Act consultation responses
    • NEPA Environmental Assessments and supporting documentation
  • Review Biological Assessments, consultation packages, permit applications, and supporting documentation to ensure scientific accuracy, completeness, and regulatory compliance.
  • Provide technical consultation to federal agencies, identify data gaps, recommend conservation measures, and develop appropriate technical standards during pre-consultation activities.
  • Evaluate requests submitted under programmatic consultations and prepare verification letters, determinations, technical responses, and supporting documentation for Government review.
  • Coordinate with NMFS biologists, fish-passage engineers, NOAA Science Centers, attorneys, Geographic Branch Managers, project managers, and other federal and state partners.
  • Maintain consultation records, administrative files, quality assurance documentation, and consultation tracking information using NOAA systems, including ECO.
  • Participate in interdisciplinary meetings and provide technical expertise to support regulatory decision-making.
  • Support continuous improvement of consultation processes while ensuring compliance with applicable federal regulations and agency guidance.

Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Aquatic Biology, Fisheries Biology, Conservation Biology, Wildlife Biology, Fisheries Management, Environmental Science, or a closely related scientific discipline, plus at least three (3) years of relevant professional experience, OR
  • Master's degree in a related scientific discipline with at least one (1) year of directly related experience.
  • Strong knowledge of salmonid biology, life history, habitat requirements, and aquatic ecosystems.
  • Experience supporting environmental compliance under federal environmental regulations.
  • Excellent technical writing, editing, analytical, and verbal communication skills.
  • Experience working within interdisciplinary or multi-agency project teams.
  • Experience with project planning, scheduling, milestones, performance metrics, and collaborative project management.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and Google Workspace.
  • Valid driver's license.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a Low-Risk Public Trust clearance and PIV/CAC credentials.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience implementing and interpreting requirements under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) and Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act (MSA)
  • Experience preparing federal regulatory documentation for environmental compliance projects.
  • Experience conducting ESA Section 7 consultations, NEPA environmental analyses, or preparing administrative records.
  • Experience evaluating impacts of human activities on marine, estuarine, or anadromous fish species and their habitats.
  • Experience supporting fish-passage reviews, habitat restoration, or aquatic ecosystem conservation projects.
  • Experience collaborating with tribal governments, state resource agencies, and federal environmental organizations.
  • Familiarity with FOIA documentation and federal records management processes.

Compensation: $80,000.00 - $90,000.00 per year
H & R provides a broad range of technical services that emphasize high level architectural evaluation, design, and planning, information engineering and re-engineering, systems integration for multiple platforms and data sources, and management consulting services focused on better information for business decision making.

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