Aquatic Biologist

The Position

Step into a meaningful role as an Aquatic Biologist 1 with the Department of Environmental Protection, where your work helps protect the waterways that communities depend on! You will join a team that values curiosity, steady problem solving, and care for the environment. You help ensure that aquatic habitats stay protected while learning new skills every day. We invite you to make a real and positive impact across the region!

• Field Studies:
  Conduct aquatic habitat investigations and assess site conditions for permitting decisions
• Permit Review:
  Analyze information in permit applications to support determinations under the Dam Safety and Encroachments Act and department regulations
• Environmental Analysis:
  Compile research and documentation to support findings and confirm compliance with regulations
• Agency Coordination:
  Consult with local, state, and federal partners to support environmental reviews and planning efforts
• Enforcement Support:
  Document violations and contribute recommendations for corrective actions and legal responses
• Public Outreach:
  Assist with educational programs and provide technical guidance to communities and organizations

• Full‑time employment
• Work hours are 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Monday – Friday, with a 30‑minute lunch.
• Telework:
  You may have the opportunity to work from home (telework) part‑time, up to 3 days per week. In order to telework, you must have a securely configured high‑speed internet connection and work from an approved location inside Pennsylvania. If you are unable to telework, you will have the option to report to the headquarters office in Wilkes‑Barre. The ability to telework is subject to change at any time.
  
  Additional details may be provided during the interview.
• Salary:
  Selected candidates who are new to employment with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania will begin employment at the starting annual salary of $51,971.00 (before taxes).

Required Experience, Training & Eligibility

• A bachelor's degree with a major in a biological science, natural science, environmental science, or natural resource management, including or supplemented by six college credits in freshwater aquatic biology, aquatic ecology, aquatic botany, water pollution biology, entomology, limnology, or closely related aquatic science coursework; or
• An equivalent combination of experience and training that includes six college credits in freshwater aquatic biology, aquatic ecology, aquatic botany, water pollution biology, entomology, limnology, or closely related aquatic science coursework.
• Applicants will be considered to have met the educational requirements once they are within three months of graduating with a qualifying degree.

Special Requirements

• All positions require possession of an active motor vehicle license.

Other Requirements

• You must meet the PA residency requirement.
• You must be able to perform essential job functions.

The Commonwealth is an equal employment opportunity employer and is committed to a diverse workforce. The Commonwealth values inclusion as we seek to recruit, develop, and retain the most qualified people to serve the citizens of Pennsylvania. The Commonwealth does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religious creed, ancestry, union membership, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, AIDS or HIV status, disability, or any other categories protected by applicable federal or state law.

All diverse candidates are encouraged to apply.