Regional Aquatic Program Manager

FT / PT Status – Full-Time
Benefits Eligibility – This position is eligible for a full benefits package.
Salary – $27.34 - $43.36 Hourly Wage
Remote Work / In-Office – Hybrid
Final date to receive applications – 10/25/2026*

* This job posting may close at any time after the minimum advertising period of three (3) business days has passed, should a sufficient applicant pool be received. Applicants are encouraged to apply as early as possible.

Lead the team that protects, conserves, and enhances Southern Utah's aquatic ecosystems and world-class fisheries. As the Regional Aquatics Program Manager, you will oversee regional fisheries management, native species conservation, and coordinate on issues like habitat restoration and aquatic invasive species (AIS) prevention. Your work directly balances ecological preservation with high-quality angling opportunities across the region.

Join a collaborative, science-driven culture dedicated to wildlife conservation, team mentorship, and public service. You will direct a team of regional aquatic biologists while collaborating closely with key partners:

Work alongside the Regional Supervisor, Habitat Manager, Terrestrial Wildlife Manager, and Wildlife Conservation Officers.

Partner with the Chief of Aquatics, Statewide Coordinators, and Hatchery Managers to align local strategies with state goals.

Engage with federal agencies (USFS, BLM, USFWS), water districts, local angling groups, and private landowners.

Core Responsibilities

• Program Leadership:
  Direct regional sportfish and native aquatic species.
• Team & Budget Management:
  Supervise, train, and mentor staff while managing regional budgets and state/federal grants.
• Science & Regulation:
  Oversee population monitoring, scientific research, and data analysis to inform management, fishing regulations and develop, implement and adhere to management plans.
• Public Engagement:
  Represent the DWR at Regional Advisory Council (RAC) meetings and engage with key stakeholders.

Education:

Degree in Fisheries Biology, Aquatic Ecology, Wildlife Management, or a related natural resources field or equivalent experience.

Preference may be given to applicants with the following knowledge, skills and experience:

• Proven supervisory and program management experience.
• Masters degree in Fisheries Science or related field
• Certifications:
  
  Certified Fisheries Professional (AFS).
• Western Aquatics & AIS Expertise:
  Knowledge of Utah native species (e.g., Cutthroat trout lineages) and quagga/zebra mussel containment strategies.
• Habitat & Water Knowledge:
  Experience with stream/lake restoration techniques and basic familiarity with Western water law/instream flows.
• Data & Software
  
  Skills:
  
  Proficiency in ArcGIS, fisheries analysis tools (R, FAST, MARK), and Federal Aid (DJ) or WRI grant administration.
• Public & Partner Relations:
  Experience presenting to public groups/boards (e.g., RACs, public committees) and leading multi-agency projects (USFS, BLM, USFWS, water districts).

Location – 1470 N Airport Rd Cedar City, Utah, 84720 United States

Background Check Required – No

Drug Test Required – No

Schedule Code – AX
- Employees in supervisory positions

Work Schedule – Mon
- Fri, 8 hours/day, 40 hours/week

Work environment, working conditions, physical requirements:

• Field & Weather:
  Outdoor work in remote lakes, streams, and backcountry sites, requiring adaptability to severe weather (extreme heat, freezing cold, snow).
• Travel &
  
  Schedule:
  
  Mix of office and field work. Field work…