Biological Technician

Cramer Fish Sciences (CFS) is seeking talented BIOLOGICAL TECHNICIANS to join our team. This position offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in fisheries research and contribute to meaningful conservation projects. If you have a background in biology/ecology/natural resources and a passion for fish conservation, we encourage you to apply!

THE OPPORTUNITY: Contribute to essential research through the sampling of aquatic habitats and fish populations in managed forests across the State of Washington.

• Work collaboratively in teams to conduct fieldwork, generally within a 40-hour workweek
• Engage in fieldwork with overnight travel to various project sites in West/Southwest Washington from March to July and September to November
• Potential to support other CFS project work across the Pacific Northwest during off-season months
• Supervised by the Fish Ecology Lab in Portland, OR

EDUCATION/QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in Fisheries Science, Ecology, Environmental Science, or a related field is preferred.
• Proficiency in fish identification, handling, and biological data collection, with demonstrated experience in fieldwork
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to convey information effectively to both team members and external stakeholders
• Positive, proactive approach to challenges, with a demonstrated ability to adapt to changing conditions, priorities, and unexpected obstacles in the field
• Commitment to safety and compliance with fieldwork standards and organizational policies
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office 365
• A valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving record

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Experience with QA/QC processes
• Experience in fish surveys and electrofishing techniques
• Certification in Swift Water Rescue and/or Wilderness First Aid/CPR

REQUIREMENTS:

• Ability and availability for overnight travel between March-July and September-November to various sites across Washington.
• Ability to work 8+ hour days in diverse outdoor environments, including forests, rivers, streams, and lakes, often in remote locations.
• Ability to work in inclement weather, such as rain, fog, or extreme temperatures, including ability to drive in such conditions.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs., traverse uneven terrain, and work and swim in cold water
• Ability and willingness to adjust work locations, sampling methods, and schedules (including weekends and evenings) based on project priorities.

COMPENSATION:

• Salary: $20-$22/hour (dependent on experience)
• Benefits: CFS is committed to supporting our employees with a competitive benefits package, including:
  • 100% employer-paid medical, dental, and vision coverage for employee-only plans (with additional buy-up options available)
  • Basic life insurance and long-term disability coverage
  • Generous paid time off (PTO) policies and paid company holidays
  • FSA or HSA through medical plan options
  • Employee Assistant Program (EAP) access
  • Company 401(k)-retirement plan with company match and full vesting after one year of service, including access to personalized financial advising
• ESOP: CFS is proud to say that we are a 100% employee-owned company, and our employee stock option plan (ESOP) is a qualified defined contribution plan. Our target ESOP contribution is 5%. Eligibility is after one year of service with an entry date of Jan 1st or July 1st.

ABOUT CRAMER FISH SCIENCES: The mission of Cramer Fish Sciences is to provide quality, expert science which supports wise policy decisions and advances the field of natural resource management. We help clients in the Pacific Northwest and California find innovative and practical solutions to challenges with fisheries, riparian, and aquatic ecology.

Cramer Fish Sciences is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer. We welcome and consider all qualified applicants regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status. We are dedicated to diversifying our profession and fostering a culture that celebrates and embraces diversity in all its forms as part of our ongoing commitment to inclusion and equity.