Fisheries Biologist

Join to apply for the Fisheries Biologist role at State of Wisconsin

Introduction

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR), Division of Fish, Wildlife and Parks, is accepting applications for several Fisheries Biologist positions. Positions are headquartered in Baldwin, Bayfield, Black River Falls, Florence, Green Bay, and Wautoma.

Find a meaningful and rewarding career with the DNR! The DNR excels at protecting and managing natural resources while supporting the economy and the well-being of our residents. We strive to hire, develop, and retain a talented workforce representative of the people of Wisconsin we serve. We offer training and career growth opportunities, a comprehensive benefits package, and are searching for people with diverse backgrounds to join our dynamic and team-oriented environment.

This recruitment may be used to fill future similar vacancies (permanent, project or Limited Term).

Position Summary

This position supports the planning and delivery of a comprehensive, professional fisheries management program within the assigned geographic area. Working closely with the Field Unit Supervisor and Senior Fisheries Biologist, this role assists with biological surveys, data entry and analysis, and preparation of technical reports. Responsibilities also include supporting stream and lake habitat projects, land management and access development, equipment and facility maintenance, public outreach and education, and coordination of limited-term staff.

Additional administrative and field support duties are performed as needed.

Salary Information

Starting pay is between $30.00 and $34.79 per hour, depending on qualifications, plus an exemplary benefits package:

• Generous paid time off, including at least 3 1/2 weeks of vacation/personal time, nine paid holidays, and ample sick time that rolls over each year with no cap.
• Excellent and affordable health insurance options (2026 rates start at $45/month for single and $111/month for family coverage).
• Other great insurance options (dental, vision, life, and more).
• A top‑notch retirement program and optional tax advantaged 457 retirement savings plan.
• A Well Wisconsin program, offering wellness tools and rewards to employees and spouses.
• A free and confidential employee assistance program that offers employees and their household members tools, resources, and professional consultation services.

Public service is rewarding! This position may be eligible for Public Service Loan Forgiveness.

The classification title for this position is Fisheries Biologist (schedule 15, range 04). A 12‑month probationary period will be required. This position is not represented in a collective bargaining unit and is considered exempt under the Fair Labor Standards Act.

Pay will be set in accordance with the State Compensation Plan in effect at the time of appointment. Starting pay may vary for current state employees.

Job Details

Travel: Substantial interstate and statewide travel are required. Travel rarely involves an overnight stay.

Remote work: Remote work may be available for a portion of the work week after the initial onboarding period. Employees with approved remote and hybrid‑remote work arrangements are generally expected to work within the state of Wisconsin. High‑speed internet access is required to meet the needs of remote work. Remote work options are subject to change.

Criminal histories: We also consider all qualified applicants with criminal histories, consistent with applicable federal, state and local law. Finalists for this position may be required to allow DNR to conduct a background check or other checks to determine whether the circumstances of any conviction may be related to the job being filled. For positions with access to sensitive federal tax information, FBI fingerprinting may also be required.

Eligibility to work in United States: Applicants must be legally entitled to work in the United States (i.e. a US citizen or national or a lawful permanent resident) at the time of appointment. DNR does not sponsor visas and is not an eligible OPT employer for those with F1 visas. This is not a contract position. Any appointment made will be…