Fisheries Biologist II; GFTL

Final date to receive applications: 10/20/2026 (11:59 PM ET)

Pay Grade: 14

Salary: $44,074.08 - $66,110.88 Annually

Employment Type:

EXECUTIVE BRANCH | FULL TIME | ELIGIBLE FOR OVERTIME PAY | 18A | 37.5 HR/WK

Hiring Agency:
Tourism, Arts, & Heritage Cabinet | Kentucky Fish and Wildlife Resources

Location:

1 Sportsmans Lane
Frankfort, KY 40601 USA

Love working outdoors and managing dynamic fisheries?

The Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources is seeking a motivated Fisheries Biologist II to join our Aquatic Invasive Species Branch - Frankfort!

As a Fisheries Biologist II, you’ll play a key role in the research and management of invasive carp within the Ohio River and its tributaries. This position is responsible for planning and conducting various fisheries assessments, analyzing biological data, and developing management recommendations related to invasive carp and ANS management. The successful candidate will have experience and knowledge with database programs, fish and wildlife programs and projects, strong organizational skills, and a strong work ethic.

Required work hours are 37.5 hours per week; however, overtime and irregular shifts may be required for the completion of projects.

In this role, you will:

• Conduct electrofishing and other fish population surveys on rivers
• Analyze biological data and prepare technical reports
• Develop and implement management plans and recommendations
• Provide input on regulation changes and fisheries policy
• Coordinate with partners, stakeholders, and the public

This is a grant funded time-limited (GFTL) position. This means it is a position that is paid entirely as the result of a grant. The duration of employment shall not exceed the life of the grant that funds the position. An employee appointed to a GFTL position is required to meet the minimum requirements for the classification. Further, an employee appointed to a GFTL position is designated as an unclassified (non-merit) employee.

A GFTL employee is eligible to receive benefits at the same level as a classified (merit) employee in a permanent position.

Work is field-oriented and hands‑on, often performed outdoors in varying weather conditions and river environments. This position requires strong organizational skills, biological knowledge, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team. The Fisheries Biologist II classification includes responsibility for project leadership, data analysis, reporting, and contributing to statewide fisheries management objectives.

If you’re passionate about rivers, fish populations, and science‑based resource management, this is your opportunity to make a meaningful impact on Kentucky’s aquatic resources. The position has opportunities for advancement into senior biologist role as experience and performance warrant.

Join us in conserving and enhancing Kentucky’s rivers for current and future generations of anglers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Proficient with boat trailering and operation in various water bodies and weather conditions. Well versed in freshwater fish identification, and conducting fish sampling techniques including gill nets, electrofishing, and trawls. Must be able to swim. Proficient with Microsoft programs including Word, Excel, and Power Point and data analysis with SAS or program R preferred.

We offer a great package of EMPLOYEE and FAMILY‑FRIENDLY BENEFITS, including:

• A 37.5-hour work week (with occasional overtime required)
• Paid time off (sick and vacation) plus paid holidays
• Overtime and compensatory time
• Affordable health insurance with optional Health Reimbursement Account
• Life insurance
• Retirement
• Wellness incentives program
• Training and career development opportunities
• Option…