Native Mussel Biologist 2024-02475
State of WyomingDescription and Functions
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Open Until Filled
GENERAL DESCRIPTION:
The Wyoming Game and Fish Department is seeking to hire a contract Native Mussel Biologist to coordinate and supervise a native mussel survey to refine the current distribution of Cylindrical Papershell and other native mussel species in eastern Wyoming streams and identify locations for potential reintroductions. This position will be responsible for supervising two technicians while conducting field surveys for native mussels via snorkel, SNUBA, view buckets, and/or tactile techniques. The position will also be responsible for data entry, quality control checks, and assisting the Aquatic Assessment Crew biologist with data analysis and report writing. This is a contract position funded from February 18, 2025, through October 31, 2025. This position will be based out of Casper, Wyoming.
Human Resource Contact: Alice Saldana / alice.saldana2@gmail.com
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: The listed functions are illustrative only and are not intended to describe every function that may be performed at the job level.- Design a survey scheme to identify mussel presence/absence, population viability, and habitat associations.
- Obtain and maintain positive working relationships with landowners and coordinate with other agencies and Department personnel.
- Lead two biologist technicians to sample mussel populations and their habitats using underwater viewing buckets, snorkel gear, SNUBA, and other appropriate methods for Wyoming streams.
- Compile, analyze, and synthesize data into meaningful results for Department reports and formulate management recommendations.
- Maintain a positive attitude, and strong work ethic, and be able to work independently and with others in a team setting.
- Communicate effectively and professionally with members of the public, WGFD, and other government agencies.
Qualifications
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PREFERENCES/**AGENCY REQUIREMENTS:
Preference may be given to those with a degree in fisheries and/or wildlife management, biology, ecology, ichthyology, zoology, or other closely related field, AND one or more years of applicable field experience, OR a master's degree in fisheries and/or wildlife management, biology, ecology, ichthyology, zoology, or other closely related field.
Preference may be given to those with experience sampling for native mussels.
Preference may be given to those who have experience with snorkeling, SNUBA, or are SCUBA certified.
Preference may be given to those who have experience with GIS, R, and experience working with large datasets.
Important: Applicants should attach a cover letter and resume with their online state application. The cover letter should include career plans, suitability for the job, and dates of availability.
** Must have a valid driver’s license.
KNOWLEDGE:- Knowledge of native mussel ecology and species taxonomy/identification.
- Knowledge of native mussel and related habitat sampling equipment and procedures.
- Experience collecting stream habitat data.
- Experience interacting with the public.
- Requires attention to detail, effective oral communication, and public relations skills.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
None - See "Preferences"
Necessary Special Requirements
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PHYSICAL WORKING CONDITIONS:- Ability to perform fieldwork under adverse weather conditions.
- Irregular schedules with weekend work may be required.
- Extensive overnight travel may be required as is camping in remote locations.
NOTES:- FLSA: Non-Exempt
- Successful applicants for employment must pass a background check before appointment. The position will run from February 18, 2025, to October 31, 2025.
- Lodging, rain gear, uniform, and all other necessary field equipment and expenses will be provided when in the field.
- Off-duty housing is not provided.
- Contact Travis Neebling, Aquatic Assessment Crew Biologist at 307-233-6410 or Travis.Neebling@wyo.gov for additional information about the position or application process.
- Please do not send cover letters or resumes via email; those should be attached to the online application.
- This is an At-Will Employee Contract position (AWEC)
Supplemental Information
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040-Game & Fish Commission - Fish Division
Click here to view the State of Wyoming Classification and Pay Structure.
URL: http://agency.governmentjobs.com/wyoming/default.cfm
The State of Wyoming is an Equal Opportunity Employer and actively supports the ADA and reasonably accommodates qualified applicants with disabilities.
Class Specifications are subject to change, please refer to the A & I HRD Website to ensure that you have the most recent version.