Ocean Career: NC DEQ Marine Fisheries Biologist

Marine Fisheries Biologist

This Marine Fisheries Biologist supports and leads fisheries monitoring programs and fisheries management activities conducted out of the Manteo Field Office of the Division of Marine Fisheries. This position combines hands-on fieldwork responsibilities with analytical, supervisory, and fisheries management responsibilities. This position is responsible for statistically analyzing and interpreting fisheries data to support state and regional fisheries management. This includes preparation of technical reports, Fishery Management Plans (FMPs), annual FMP updates, compliance reports, grant deliverables, program summaries, and recommending management actions for finfish resources.

The biologist will support FMP development by identifying and analyzing management issues, serving on plan development teams, and acting as staff lead or co-lead on one or more FMPs. This position will work with and communicate fisheries science and management to the public. This position will also work with other state agencies and regional agencies by fulfilling data requests and participating in technical committees, hearings, and public meetings.

The biologist will supervise technical staff and will coordinate and oversee fishery-dependent sampling programs to ensure data quality, safety standards, and program goals are met. The biologist will collect data that helps monitor the commercial fishery's catch and effort including biological data and harvest methods. A North Carolina driver's license and the ability to swim are required.

• Lead and support fishery-dependent monitoring programs through participation in field work, coordination of sampling activities, and verification and validation of biological data.
• Analyze fisheries data using appropriate statistical and analytical methods and be familiar with survey design and basic stock assessment principles and methodologies.
• Prepare, review, and contribute to technical reports and data summaries (Fisheries Management Plans, Annual Fisheries Management Plan Updates, Compliance Reports, Program Summaries, etc.) in support of state and federal fisheries.
• Serve as staff lead or co-lead for state and interstate species and Fishery Management Plans, coordinate with state and regional agencies, and participate in technical committees, hearings, and public meetings.
• Supervise technical staff ensuring data quality, safety compliance, and program goals and objectives are met.

Bachelor's degree in wildlife or fisheries management, fisheries science, zoology, or a biological science, or a closely related curriculum from an appropriately accredited institution and two years of experience in wildlife or fisheries management; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Salary: $52,592

Final date to receive applications:
May 23, 2026