Charleston STEP Biologist (Natural Resource Specialist 2)
State of Oregon
Salem, OR, USA
Initial Posting Date:
06/01/2026Application Deadline:
06/15/2026Agency:
Department of Fish and WildlifeSalary Range:
$4,738 - $7,247Position Type:
EmployeePosition Title:
Charleston STEP Biologist (Natural Resource Specialist 2)Job Description:
MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN OREGON’S NATURAL RESOURCES!
Opportunity Awaits, Apply Today!
As a Charleston Step Biologist (Natural Resource Specialist 2) in Charleston, Oregon you will work with local communities and volunteers in the Tenmile, Coos, and Coquille basins to develop and implement fish enhancement projects. You will also assist in monitoring fish populations and support their protection through fishing regulations, environmental oversight, and habitat restoration efforts. In addition, you will provide essential support to the District Fish Biologist by gathering information, responding to public inquiries, coordinating with volunteers, recommending program or regulatory changes, and offering technical input on issues affecting fish habitat and population health.
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.
This position requires acquiring a Hazardous Waste Operations Emergency Response training certification (HAZWOPER) and a Boater Education Certificate obtained through the Oregon State Marine Board within the first six months of appointment.
For a full review of the position details, duties and working conditions, click here.
Clearly describe how you meet the minimum qualifications and 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
Technical experience with fisheries science: Understanding fish biology, habitat needs, population monitoring methods, and fisheries regulations is essential
Community outreach and communication experience: You regularly work with volunteers, landowners, and the public, so clear communication and the ability to explain technical concepts are important
Project coordination and organizational experience: Developing and supporting fish enhancement projects requires planning, scheduling, tracking progress, and coordinating with multiple partners
Data collection and analysis experience: Monitoring fish populations, gathering field data, and helping interpret trends are key parts of the job
Problem‑solving and decision‑support experience: You must identify issues affecting fish habitat or populations and provide informed recommendations on program changes or regulations
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.
To learn more about the agency and the work we do, view the following video at https://myodfw.com/about
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://youtu.be/8CjDPiPMGAk
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

