AGFC Conservation Program Biologist II​/Fisheries Division

summary

the arkansas game and fish commission (agfc) conservation program biologist ii (fisheries division) is responsible for supervising a fisheries management resource. This position is governed by state and federal laws and agency/institution policy.

• supervises a small to medium-sized professional staff by interviewing, recommending hire or termination, assigning and reviewing work, evaluating employee performance, and training employees.
• addresses program, district, hatchery, and divisional administrative duties.
• directs the planning, preparation, and implementation of projects on arkansas' streams, rivers, reservoirs, and fish culture facilities.
• develops aquatic species conservation plans, aquatic species management plans, stream and river management plans, and reservoir management plans.
• coordinates and leads biological surveys and studies of aquatic fauna, determining vital rate functions that shape population structure and condition. Statistically analyzes data, writes summary reports, and publishes peer‑reviewed journal articles.
• coordinates the gathering of public input through public meetings, angler creel surveys, and other survey methods.
• communicates regularly with the appropriate assistant chief and/or fisheries district coordinators regarding oversight for budgets, contracts, and grants.
• develops and maintains program, district, or hatchery budgets.
• serves on internal working groups, as well as external statewide, regional, and national working groups and teams.
• coordinates public relations work with various agencies, private industry, professional and civic organizations, and outdoor recreational groups.
• must understand and be willing to function in a multi‑faceted, team‑oriented work environment. Must maintain close individual contact with and develop solid working relationships with all fisheries division, agency, and partner organization personnel.
• performs other duties as assigned.

as an agfc district fisheries supervisor (conservation program biologist ii), you will join a highly‑trained, progressive team of fisheries scientists working to improve conservation and management of aquatic resources in arkansas. You will receive outstanding training and competitive pay and benefits. District fisheries supervisors are responsible for fisheries management activities within a district, with opportunities to collaborate on projects throughout the state.

• standardized fish population surveys
• on‑site and off‑site angler surveys
• stakeholder engagement
• fish habitat improvement projects
• analysis of survey data
• preparation of annual fishery sample report management plans
• all district administrative duties
• fishing access development
• working with other agencies and elected officials on improving fisheries resources.

• knowledge of the principles of biology, ecology, and related environmental sciences
• knowledge of fisheries principles and techniques
• knowledge of laboratory and field survey equipment, techniques, and procedures
• knowledge of supervisory practices and procedures
• knowledge of state purchasing procedures
• ability to plan work unit objectives and operational activities and to assign and direct the work of subordinates
• ability to make public presentations
• ability to plan and direct scientific surveys and studies
• ability to develop, implement, and monitor fisheries plans and programs

• knowledge of fish population dynamics, population simulation modeling, and common statistical analysis
• skill in working with the public
• experience in current fish sampling techniques
• good written and verbal communication skills
• physically able to work long hours, sometimes under harsh or physically demanding conditions
• strong teamwork concept, yet capable of completing a task without close supervision.
• strong organizational skills.

the formal education equivalent of a bachelor's degree in biology, ecology, fisheries management, or a related field; plus three years of experience in fisheries or a related field, including one year in a leadership capacity.

other job-related…