Aquatics Program Manager

GAME AND FISH DEPARTMENT

Join the only state agency in Arizona responsible for conserving and protecting more than 800 wildlife species. Be part of a passionate group of people who want to make a positive impact on outdoor recreation in Arizona by managing resources for safe, compatible opportunities for current and future generations. From fishing, boating and off-highway vehicle use to shooting sports, hunting and wildlife watching, Arizona Game and Fish supports it all.

Our biologists use the best available science in their management actions, and our wildlife managers are on the ground in your communities making a difference every day. Opportunities abound beyond the field at AZGFD, so check us out and see what we’re all about! Consider joining our workforce today. AZGFD celebrates the diversity of Arizona's people, landscapes and of course, wildlife.

However you choose to enjoy Arizona’s wildlife and wild places, the outdoors is open for all.

FIELD OPERATIONS DIVISION / REGION 4 / YUMA BASED 9140 28th St. Yuma, AZ 85365

WILDLIFE SPECIALIST SUPERVISOR REGIONAL “Aquatics Program Manager” FIELD OPERATIONS DIVISION / REGION 4 / YUMA BASED FLSA- EXEMPT / SALARY GRADE 23 / HIRING SALARY RANGE $60,000 - $75,000

As our Aquatics Program Manager
, you’ll lead the team responsible for keeping Arizona’s waters healthy and thriving. In this role, you’re not just managing programs—
you’re protecting native fish and ensuring great fishing experiences for everyone in Arizona. You’ll supervise a team of specialists, guide scientific studies, and work with local communities and partners to make sure our lakes, rivers, and streams stay healthy for future generations.

• Education: A Bachelor’s degree in Wildlife Science, Biology, Ecology, Fisheries, or a similar field.
• Experience: At least 3 years of hands‑on experience in wildlife or fisheries research and management (a Master’s or higher degree can count as one year of experience).
• Leadership: A proven ability to coach, mentor, and lead a team.
• Communication: You’re a great communicator who can build partnerships, work with the public, and manage agreements with other agencies.

At Arizona Game and Fish,
conservation is personal. Our employees are deeply connected to the landscapes and wildlife they protect. We value stewardship, teamwork, partnerships, and professional growth, and we support our staff with training and career development opportunities.

This Aquatics Program Manager will supervise and coordinate staff in complex aquatic wildlife research, sportfish and native fish management and/or environmental studies in the field and laboratory. This position will also develop and administer aquatic wildlife programs and is responsible for strategic planning and establishing programmatic priorities.

• Supervises, coaches, mentors and trains subordinate personnel in aquatic wildlife science, management principles, and functions.
• Ensures all program-related administrative matters are appropriately maintained.
• Manages workflow, provides program oversight and ensures staff competency and development.
• Maintains programmatic activities which include sportfish and native fish surveys, habitat evaluation/improvement, creel data collection, and stocking. Also includes review/issuance of special licenses, sportfish education, and evaluation of boating/angler access needs.
• Develops and/or reviews aquatic wildlife management plans and guidelines.
• Prepares and/or reviews material for publication.
• Oversees environmental compliance related to program implementation.
• Negotiates contracts, memorandums of…