Job Description

This position supports a fisheries and aquatics resources science delivery program in partnership with the USDA Forest Service, Southern Research Station, Center for Aquatic Technology Transfer (CATT). The candidate will train, supervise, lead, and manage field crews and technicians; develop and prepare fieldwork project logistics, schedules, methods manuals, maps, and electronic data entry forms. The candidate will participate in fieldwork, data management, and analysis in support of aquatics management and hurricane disaster recovery projects. Tasks will include the following: collection, quality control, and management of information for fish populations, aquatic habitats, and water quality; lead outreach programs; maintenance and safe use of field equipment; data analysis and report preparation. This position requires the incumbent to carry heavy backpacks in rough terrain, hike several miles per day, and work in remote areas. Alternate working hours are required and will include weekend work. This position requires extensive travel to national forests in the southeastern USA. Travel to field sites may last for periods of up to several weeks at a time followed by a return to Blacksburg VA with a short period of down time before re-deploying to another field site. Travel will occur throughout the year.

Required Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in fisheries, wildlife, biology, hydrology, watershed science or related fields, or relevant experience; field experience, ability to carry heavy backpacks in rough terrain, ability to hike several miles per day, and a positive attitude even under adverse field conditions.

Preferred Qualifications

Master's degree in fisheries, wildlife, biology, hydrology, watershed science or related fields; experience leading and supervising field-teams, managing fieldwork projects, working in streams or rivers, working in remote areas, working with partners in state and federal agencies and non-profit organizations, and experience with GIS

Pay Band: 4

Overtime Status: Exempt: Not eligible for overtime

Appointment Type: Restricted

Hours per week: 40

Review Date: 8/28/25

Additional Information: The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.

Virginia Tech

Blacksburg, VA, USA

"Natural Resources Specialist (team leader)"

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