Spatial Ecologist Jobs in Silver Spring, MD (NOW HIRING)

*US Citizenship Required

*Full time Onsite Position at the NWFSC, Seattle, WA or at one of its associated field stations in WA or OR

*Travel is anticipated

*Anticipated Start: 4th quarter FY 2026

*Position is Subject to Contract Award

POSITION DESCRIPTION

The Fisheries Ecologist supports the Northwest Fisheries Science Center (NWFSC) Fish Ecology Division by assembling, managing, analyzing, and communicating ecological data used to evaluate the effects of fisheries management actions on marine, estuarine, and freshwater species throughout the Pacific Northwest and California. Working collaboratively with NOAA scientists, resource managers, tribal representatives, and interdisciplinary research teams, the Fisheries Ecologist contributes to research that informs sustainable fisheries management, conservation, and ecosystem-based resource stewardship.

This position focuses on integrating large spatial and temporal datasets, conducting ecological analyses, synthesizing scientific literature, and developing reproducible workflows and data products that support management decisions. The Fisheries Ecologist also participates in field data collection, scientific reporting, and dissemination of research findings through technical reports, publications, and presentations.

REQUIREMENTS

• Education – Bachelor's degree, or higher, from an accredited college or university with a major in a field of study related to the requirements of the task order with emphasis in fisheries, ecology, natural sciences, mathematics, statistics, oceanography, or hydrology.
• Experience – Three (3) years of experience related to the task order, including familiarity with the species and habitats managed by NOAA Fisheries in the West Coast region. An Advanced Degree (MS or PhD) in a related field may be substituted for two (2) years of experience.
• Excellent verbal and written communication, and experience writing reports and publishing peer-reviewed articles. Familiarity with common software used in the workplace such as Google Suite and Microsoft Office.
• Strong quantitative skills including familiarity with modeling and data analysis. Familiarity with software such as R, GitHub. etc.
• Ability to manage workload, stay organized, and produce high-quality work products efficiently.
• Ability to work both independently and on interdisciplinary teams.

The proposed personnel must possess and maintain the following skills/certifications and/or credentials during the period of performance: valid driver's license.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Advanced degree (MS or PhD) for Tasks 1-3 highly preferred.
• Peer-reviewed publication record in fisheries ecology, quantitative ecology, or related field.
• Collaboration with tribal representatives and regional resource management partners.
• Presenting results at regional and national scientific meetings and conferences.
• Familiarity with Pacific salmon, groundfish, or other NOAA WC managed species.
• Experience with Bayesian or hierarchical modeling approaches.

ABOUT THINK TANK INC.

Think Tank Inc. (TTI) is a CMMI Level 3 (DEV/SVC) appraised, ISO 9001, 27001, 20000-1, 31000, and 42001 certified provider of scientific, technical, and professional support services to federal agencies, including NOAA Fisheries under the ProTech 2.0 Fisheries IDIQ. Learn more at www.ttinc.com.

Think Tank Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.