Fish and Wildlife Technician

This position is open to Alaska Residents only. Please check our residency definition to determine if you qualify.

The Alaska Department of Fish and Game, Division of Sport Fish is recruiting for a Fish and Wildlife Technician 2 located in Whittier, Alaska!

The incumbent will collect biological samples and interview data from sport anglers participating in Pacific halibut or groundfish fisheries in Prince William Sound out of the port of Whittier. The incumbent will work independently, must be able to identify or learn to identify Alaskan groundfish species, and must have a positive attitude when working with the public.

The mission of the Division of Sport Fish is to protect, maintain, and improve Alaska’s sport fisheries. The incumbent collects fisheries’ dependent data that is used by State, national, and international fisheries management organizations to ensure Alaska’s groundfish are managed sustainably.

The Alaska Department of Fish & Game strives for a diverse and inclusive workforce where safety and well-being are paramount, and employees at all levels promote a culture where everyone is valued, treated equitably, and treated respectfully.

Port sampling is a great way to gain experience working with the public as a fisheries professional. This independent, high‑profile position will allow the incumbent to experience first‑hand how fisheries regulations affect recreational anglers and fishing guides.

Whittier is a small, scenic, and friendly fishing town at the head of Prince William Sound. Fishing, hiking, and marine recreation opportunities are nearly limitless. The incumbent will be the only ADF&G staff member in town and will spend their shifts at the Whittier small boat harbor and a small apartment in Begich Towers. A State of Alaska vehicle will be provided for transportation to and from the harbor.

Shifts will begin in the afternoon between 12‑3 pm and the incumbent will receive 2 consecutive days off each week, but these will rarely fall on weekends. Three days per week will be spent collecting Age‑Weight‑Length samples from sport caught halibut, rockfish, and lingcod and two days per week will be spent interviewing anglers. The sampling season will begin in mid‑May and end in late August.

There is some flexibility in start and end dates if necessary. Housing in a small studio apartment will be provided.

• Requires the ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
• Requires standing for long periods, bending over, use of knives and forceps.

• Positive attitude:
  Contacting and interviewing recreational anglers and charter boat captains as a Department representative requires a positive attitude.
• Biological sampling experience:
  Sampling groundfish for age, weight, sex, and length requires some experience sampling animals or plants in the field.
• Identification experience:
  Identifying groundfish using morphological characteristics requires some experience using identification guides or dichotomous keys.
• Computer and organizational skills:
  Compiling, checking, and reporting sampling data requires Microsoft Excel skills and the ability to stay organized.

A valid driver's license is required. This position may be in possession of, or have access to, firearms/ammunition. High school graduation or the equivalent, OR three months as an entry level fish and wildlife technician or aide, OR six months of work experience involving fish, wildlife, outdoor manual labor, or in a laboratory.

Exposure to animals, insects, inclement weather, low level flying, travel by boat or skiff, or contact with drugs and chemicals may occur. Housing may consist of bunkhouses, vessels, or wall tents. Some duties may be restricted for employees under the age of 18 in accordance with State and federal child labor laws. Positions are seasonal or temporary.

• 3 references (at least 2 must be work related).

For your application to be evaluated you must answer the Supplemental Questions. Be specific in your answers and tell us how…