Fishery Biologist

Job Description

Fishery Biologist 4 (Statewide Salmon Research Biologist - PCN 117025) located in Anchorage, Alaska. This position is available only to Alaska Residents.

As the lead of the Research and Data Services Unit in the Chief Fisheries Scientist for Salmon Office, this position works with a team of fisheries scientists, biologists, regional research coordinators, and senior biometricians to design, plan, and perform research to support state needs for sustainable fisheries management. Primary responsibilities include:

• Oversight of the Division of Commercial Fisheries salmon biometrics unit and coordination of multi‑regional data requests.
• Leading efforts to rescue and resurrect historical data sets; training staff in reproducible science and analytical practices.
• Communicating results to diverse groups (scientists, managers, industry, public) and authoring fisheries reports, technical publications, and external manuscripts.
• Providing expert statistical and modeling input for salmon stock assessments, escapement goal development, and forecasting.
• Facilitating retrieval and archiving of historical data and samples for future use.
• Supporting ongoing division and department activities with technical assistance on scientific research design, methods, training, reporting, and budgeting.
• Communicating stock assessment and research results with appropriate context; reviewing and recommending applications to fishery managers and stakeholders.

This role supports the division’s mission to manage fisheries sustainably, ensuring the economic and welfare benefits of Alaska’s citizens. The Research and Data Services Unit fosters scientific soundness, reproducibility, and an inclusive work environment.

The position offers a professional opportunity to collaborate with biologists, biometricians, scientists, and decision makers across state and federal agencies. It includes advantageous travel and collaboration prospects, hybrid telework options, and a supportive team environment.

Full‑time position based at the ADF&G office in Anchorage. Requires frequent travel within Alaska, and sometimes to the U.S. and Canada. Field sampling, vessel work, and remote locations may be involved. Work may extend beyond normal business hours.

Position‑specific competencies:

• Working knowledge of statistical, mathematical, and population dynamics theory and quantitative biological research principles.
• Proficiency with statistical coding tools (R, Python) and reproducible science methods (git, markdown); experience coordinating and curating large datasets.
• Strong oral and written communication skills for presenting scientific and policy issues to diverse audiences.
• Experience preparing reports and publishing research in peer‑reviewed journals.
• Independent and team‑driven work style that contributes to a positive working environment.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously across diverse technical skill levels.
• Interest in solving complex problems.

Bachelor’s degree in biology, limnology, biometrics, oceanography, forestry, fisheries science, or natural resource management and one year of advanced professional experience as a biologist or fish culturist (e.g., Fishery Biologist 3, Fish Culturist 3, etc.) required. Substitutions include the following credit hours:

• At least 24 semester hours in biology or related fields, with 16 upper‑division.
• At least 12 semester hours in chemistry, physics, mathematics, statistics, geology, hydrology, or GIS.

Valid driver’s license preferred. Valid U.S. passport for international travel and the ability to legally enter Canada is preferred.

The position requires the use or possession of a firearm or ammunition. Applicants who have been convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence are ineligible for this position.

The State of Alaska complies with Title I of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Individuals with disabilities requiring accommodation, auxiliary aids or services, or alternative communication formats may contact the Division of Personnel & Labor Relations at 1‑800‑587‑0430 or (907) 465‑4095 in Juneau. The State of Alaska is an equal‑opportunity employer.

Andrew Munro, Statewide Salmon Stock Assessment Scientist
Phone: (907) 267‑2260
andrews.munro
Statewide toll‑free: (800) 587‑0430
(907) 465‑4095 (Juneau and out‑of‑state callers)