Job Description

Initial Posting Date:

08/17/2026

Application Deadline:

08/24/2026

Agency:

Department of Fish and Wildlife

Salary Range:

$4,738 - $7,247

Position Type:

Employee

Position Title:

Wildlife Research Biologist (Natural Resource Specialist 2)

This is a full time, Limited Duration position with an anticipated duration through June 30, 2028

We will also consider a Job Rotation for current, regular status employees of the State of Oregon in good standing in a permanent or limited duration position (not temporary or seasonal) that is expected to continue through at least June 30, 2028. You do not need to meet the minimum qualifications of the Natural Resource Specialist 2 to be considered for this rotation, you can gain the experience as a developmental opportunity.

Please attach approval from your current manager to be considered for this job rotation in the resume/cover letter section of your application.

MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN OREGON’S NATURAL RESOURCES!

Opportunity Awaits, Apply Today!

As a Wildlife Research Biologist (Natural Resource Specialist 2) in La Grande, Oregon, you will collect, manage, analyze, and summarize data related to bighorn sheep in the East Region. Duties include:

• Coordinate with biologists, GIS specialists, and statisticians and other project collaborators to gather, prepare and analyze data

• Gather/acquire data from literature reviews and online searches requiring use of computers and specialized knowledge of spatial data

• Summarize and analyze data using geographic and statistical software such as ArcPRO, R, or equivalents

• Interpret data analysis

• Write manuscripts suitable for publication

• Present results at public and professional meetings

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. They are not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties required.

For a full review of the position details, duties and working conditions, click here

Clearly describe how you meet the desired attributes in your application materials. We cannot accept additional application materials after the application deadline. These materials determine whether you move forward in the selection process and help establish your starting salary. Be sure your work and education history is accurate, thorough, and fully reflects your skills and experience, even if they do not seem directly related to the position. Click here to learn more about Equal Pay Analysis and What You Need to Know to Get the Job

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR

Minimum Qualifications

Option 1: Two years of biological experience performing studies, research, or resource management activities in a fish or wildlife program that included one year of at least two of the following: gathering data, analyzing data, or preparing reports, AND a Bachelor's degree in Fisheries or Wildlife Science, or a closely related Bachelor’s degree with at least 45 quarter (30 semester) hours of biological/ecological coursework; OR three additional years of biological experience performing studies, research, or resource management activities in a fish or wildlife program;

- OR-

Option 2: One year biological experience performing studies, research, or resource management activities in a fish or wildlife program that included at least two of the following: gathering data, analyzing data, or preparing reports, AND a Master's degree Fisheries or Wildlife Science, or a closely related Master’s degree in biological/ecological sciences;

- OR-

Option 3: A Doctorate degree in Fisheries or Wildlife Science, or a closely related Doctorate degree in biological/ecological sciences.

Note: Applicants who have obtained a Master’s degree or Doctorate that included work experience from an internship, work/study, thesis, or similar program may list this experience in their application to receive credit for the work experience. The Master’s degree/Doctorate and applicable work experience will be considered separately, and both the education and applicable experience may count toward minimum qualifications.

Desired Attributes

• Experience identifying and correcting data errors in spreadsheets and databases

• Experience formatting and entering data into established database systems

• Experience working collaboratively with staff, lab personnel, managers, and program leaders

• Experience summarizing information in clear written and visual formats

• Experience conducting fieldwork to support research activities

• Experience assisting with wildlife captures and mortality investigations

• Experience contributing to project planning and coordination

APPLICATION DETAILS AND INSTRUCTIONS

• The State of Oregon does not request or require your age, date of birth, attendance or graduation dates from an educational institution during the application process.

• The salary listed is the non-PERS qualifying salary range. If the successful candidate is PERS qualifying, the salary range will reflect an additional 6.95%

• This recruitment will be used to establish a list of qualified people to fill the current vacancy and may be used to fill other vacancies as they occur

• State of Oregon Employees, must apply through their employee Workday account.

• Please save a copy of this job announcement for reference, as it is not available for you to view after the announcement deadline

• First time applying to the State of Oregon? Consider utilizing a WorkSource Oregon Resource event! You can also view this video or this knowledge article for assistance.

• Reasonable accommodation for interviews will be provided upon request to individuals with disabilities

• The job posting closes at 11:59 PM (PDT/PST) on the close date. After you submit your application, be sure to respond to the two questionnaires relating to public records requests and veterans’ preference immediately following your submittal. These questions are necessary to complete the application process

• If you are experiencing difficulty applying for this position or have questions, please call 503.947.6051 and ask to speak to a recruiter

BENEFITS OF JOINING OUR TEAM

ODFW is dedicated to cultivating a diverse and inclusive workforce as we strive to represent and better serve our neighboring communities. Our most important asset is our employees, and each person brings unique, different, and important contributions to the workplace and community we serve. With Oregon’s changing demographics, a workforce that reflects this change will make us stronger and create an opportunity for better decision making.

If you enjoy the outdoors, Oregon is the place for you. We have glaciated mountain peaks to the east, the Pacific Ocean to the west and the massive Columbia River Gorge to the north. You can fish 365 days a year, and there is hunting for big game, waterfowl, and game birds. The Oregon coast attracts thousands of people who clam, crab and fish in the ocean for halibut, salmon, and tuna. The outdoor opportunities are endless when it comes to fish and wildlife in Oregon! Oregon is known for their vineyards, breweries, and adventures for the whole family to enjoy. To learn more about the department, the work we do, and see our beautiful state, view the following video at https://myodfw.com/about

Additional benefits include:

• 11 paid holidays a year and a competitive benefits package

• Advancement and learning opportunities that will help grow your career with the State of Oregon

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• The employee in this position will be represented by the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) and will be subject to all terms and conditions of the collective bargaining agreement. Pay and benefits on all job listings may change without notice

• Finalists are subject to both a criminal history and motor vehicles check. Adverse background and/or driving information may disqualify you from further consideration

• Within three days of hire, applicants will be required to complete the U.S. Department Homeland Security's I-9 form confirming authorization to work in the United States. ODFW participates in E-Verify. ODFW is not able to support VISA sponsorships

• Veterans’ and Oregon National Guard preference: Eligible Veterans and Oregon National Guard servicemembers (current and former) who meet the qualifications of the position will be awarded candidate preference. For more information, please visit Veterans Resources.

Helpful Links & Resources

How to Set Job Alerts | Workday Applicant FAQ | Oregon Job Opportunities Webpage | Classification and Compensation | Ready to Relocate to Oregon | Carpool Matching Tool: Get There Oregon

More information about our agency can be found on our social media accounts: Facebook, Instagram, Youtube, and at myodfw.com and http://www.dfw.state.or.us/

The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer