Water Planning Biologist (Fisheries Biologist 2, PFBC)

Are you a passionate environmentalist with a knack for data analysis? If so, the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) is seeking a dedicated Water Planning Biologist to join their Bellefonte-based team. This is an incredible opportunity to make a tangible impact on aquatic ecosystems, contribute to vital conservation efforts, and advance your career in a rewarding field. Do not miss out on this chance to protect, conserve, and enhance the Commonwealth's aquatic resources and provide fishing and boating opportunities for all people in Pennsylvania to enjoy!

As a Water Planning Biologist, you will primarily conduct project and environmental reviews to evaluate and comment on the impact of water use programs on aquatic life and recreational activities. This includes reviewing water allocation permits, public notices, and hydropower license applications, as well as conducting instream flow studies and biological surveys related to your reviews. Work also involves collecting and analyzing biological and hydrological data, preparing technical reports, and providing written and oral comments based on your technical expertise.

Within this role, you will collaborate with the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, Delaware River Basin Commission, Susquehanna River Basin Commission, and various federal agencies surrounding water allocation permit applications, dockets, and public notices. You will also serve as a PFBC liaison to these agencies on matters related to instream flow and water allocation. Take advantage of this rewarding opportunity to help ensure the protection of aquatic ecosystems and recreational opportunities!

Interested in learning more? Additional details regarding this position can be found in the position description.

Work Schedule and Additional Information:

• Full-time employment
• Work hours are 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday - Friday, with a 30-minute lunch.
• Telework: You may have the opportunity to work from home (telework) part-time, upon successful completion of the probationary period. 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 Bellefonte.
• Salary: In some cases, the starting salary may be non-negotiable.
• You will receive further communication regarding this position via email. Check your email, including spam/junk folders, for these notices.

QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum Experience and Training Requirements:

• One year of experience as a Fisheries Biologist 1, PFBC (commonwealth title); or
• One year of professional experience conducting fish studies, fish investigations, or fish research and a bachelor's degree in a biological science that includes or is supplemented by 12 college credits in fish biology, fisheries management, fish population dynamics, ichthyology, limnology, fish ecology, aquatic ecology, watershed ecology and management, wetland ecology and management, herpetology, freshwater entomology, fish culture, fish physiology, fish pathology, biometrics, or other courses closely related to fisheries science or aquatic ecology; or
• An equivalent combination of experience and training that includes 12 college credits in fish biology, fisheries management, fish population dynamics, ichthyology, limnology, fish ecology, aquatic ecology, watershed ecology and management, wetland ecology and management, herpetology, freshwater entomology, fish culture, fish physiology, fish pathology, biometrics, or other courses closely related to fisheries science or aquatic ecology.

Special Requirements:

Other Requirements:

• PA residency requirement is currently waived for this title.
• You must be able to perform essential job functions.

Legal Requirements:

• This position falls under the provisions of the Child Protective Services Law.
  1. Under the Law, a conditional offer of employment will require submission and approval of satisfactory criminal history reports including, but not limited to, PA State Police clearance, PA Child Abuse history clearance, and FBI Fingerprint clearance.

How to Apply:

• Resumes, cover letters, and similar documents will not be reviewed, and the information contained therein will not be considered for the purposes of determining your eligibility for the position. Information to support your eligibility for the position must be provided on the application (i.e., relevant, detailed experience/education).
• If you are claiming education in your answers to the supplemental application questions, you must attach a copy of your college transcripts for your claim to be accepted toward meeting the minimum requirements. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable.
• Your application must be submitted by the posting closing date. Late applications and other required materials will not be accepted.
• Failure to comply with the above application requirements may eliminate you from consideration for this position.

Veterans:

Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS):

If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodations due to a disability, please discuss your request for accommodations with the interviewer in advance of your interview date.

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.

• Completing the application, including all supplemental questions, serves as your exam for this position. No additional exam is required at a test center (also referred to as a written exam).
• Your score is based on the detailed information you provide on your application and in response to the supplemental questions.
• Your score is valid for this specific posting only.
• You must provide complete and accurate information or:
  • your score may be lower than deserved.
  • you may be disqualified.