Salary: $41.41 - $47.57 Hourly

Location : Kotzebue, AK

Job Type: Full Time

Job Number: 47979

Department: Fish & Game

Division: Wildlife Conservation

Opening Date: 10/30/2024

Closing Date: 11/29/2024 5:00 PM Alaska

Division: Wildlife Conservation

Position Open To: Alaska Residents Only

Bargaining Unit: General Government

Range: 14/16

Job Description

This position is open to Alaska Residents only.
Please check our to determine if you qualify.

The Alaska Department of Fish and Game, Division of Wildlife Conservation is recruiting for a Wildlife Biologist 1/2 Flex located in Kotzebue!

What you will be doing:
This flexibly staffed position serves as the Region 5 Wildlife Biologist assigned to management and research project support for caribou, moose and muskoxen studies in Units 18, 22, 23 and 26A. The position is supervised by the Western Arctic Herd (WAH) caribou biologist and primary duties will include working with one of Alaska's largest caribou herds. The incumbent assists in maintaining and enhancing opportunities to hunt, trap and view wildlife while providing opportunities for Alaskans to gain knowledge of and appreciation for all of Alaska's wildlife, its management, and ways to interact with wildlife safely and ethically.

Our organization, mission, and culture:
The mission of the Division of Wildlife Conservation is to conserve and enhance Alaska's wildlife and habitats and provide for a wide range of public uses and benefits. The incumbent assists in maintaining and enhancing opportunities to hunt, trap and view wildlife while providing opportunities for Alaskans to gain knowledge of and appreciation for all of Alaska's wildlife, its management, and ways to interact with wildlife safely and ethically.

The Alaska Department of Fish & Game strives for a diverse and inclusive workforce where safety and wellbeing are paramount and employees at all levels promote a culture where everyone is valued, treated equitably, and treated respectfully.

Benefits of joining our team:
This position offers a challenging and fulfilling, professional opportunity to assist in the management of world-class, wildlife resources, in portions of the Brooks Range, North Slope, Seward Peninsula and Yukon/Kuskokwim Delta (Game Management Units 26A, 23, 22, and 18). This position will work directly with management and research biologists to grow professionally and gain experience assessing wildlife resources and managing arctic and subarctic wildlife populations in Region 5.

The working conditions you can expect:
The position and primary duties will be based in Kotzebue, with the opportunity to work on a variety of projects within Region 5. Travel to other Region 5 offices and remote field camps will be required for up to 2 weeks at a time. Duties will be performed in both the office and field setting. Duties include, data analysis, report editing/writing, communicating with the public, license sales, presenting at public meetings, participating in aerial surveys, assisting with wildlife captures, assisting with field logistics, purchasing and maintaining equipment, sealing hides and skulls and other duties as assigned.

Kotzebue is a remote community in northwest Alaska with limited services and no road connectivity. The cost of living is high due to the shipping and handling of goods and the limited availability of housing. However, if remote living with "some" amenities appeals to you, Kotzebue may be just what you are looking for. To offset the grocery costs, residents of the region have ample opportunities to harvest fish, game and other natural foods within a reasonable distance of town.

Requires the use of firearms and ability to fly in small fixed-wing and rotary aircraft in mountainous terrain.
Requires frequent travel within Unit 23, Region 5 and occasional statewide travel. Occasional field work may require overnight trips of up to 5-10 nights.

Who we are looking for:
We are looking for an energetic and committed professional who has:

Knowledge of the life history of wildlife species in Alaska and a working knowledge of wildlife biology, ecology, and population dynamics.
Experience capturing, immobilizing, and performing physical examinations of various mammal species.
Experience collecting data via aerial and ground investigations, working with databases, preparing data analyses and summaries, and writing technical reports and presentations.
Experience answering complex public inquires on wildlife issues or regulatory requirements using good oral and written communication skills (i.e., explaining trapping/hunting regulations, processes for obtaining a hunting permit, public access, etc.) while working in rural Alaska.
Experience handling firearms and proficiency in firearm use.

To view the general description and example of duties for a Wildlife Biologist 1/2 Flex please go to the following link:

Special Note: A valid driver's license is required.
Must be able to legally carry and effectively use firearms.
Minimum Qualifications

Wildlife Biologist 1

A bachelor's degree from an accredited college in biology, a branch of biology, limnology, biometrics, oceanography, forestry, or natural resource management.

Substitution:
A bachelor's degree from an accredited college that includes or is supplemented by the following credit hours will substitute for the degree in a specific field:
• at least 24 semester hours (36 quarter hours) in biology, a branch of biology, limnology, biometrics, oceanography, forestry, or natural resource management (excluding courses that focus on agricultural husbandry techniques, human population dynamics, or the design and manipulation of landscapes), of which 16 semester hours (24 quarter hours) are upper division courses; and
• at least 12 semester hours (16 quarter hours) in any combination of two or more of the following: chemistry, physics, mathematics, statistics, geology, hydrology, or GIS.

Special Note:
"Upper division courses" means courses that are specialized, in-depth and advanced. Such courses emphasize problem-solving, analytical thinking skills, and theoretical applications, with depth and rigor in a discipline's theories and methods; specialization in a particular field or profession; refinement of general education; and/or development of specific intellectual and professional skills. Upper division courses are commonly identified in college catalogs as 300 level and higher.

Some positions may require training in specialized areas such as hydroacoustics, microscopic analysis, underwater research, or fish habitat restoration or enhancement.

An individual who will complete the educational requirements and obtain the required bachelor's degree within six months may apply and be considered for a vacancy. Such applicants may be given a conditional job offer but may not be appointed until receipt of the required degree has been documented.

Wildlife Biologist 2

A bachelor's degree from an accredited college in biology, a branch of biology, limnology, biometrics, oceanography, forestry, or natural resource management.
AND
One year of professional level biologist experience. The required professional biologist experience is met by service as a Wildlife Biologist 1, Fishery Biologist 1, or Habitat Biologist 1 with the State of Alaska or the equivalent with another employer.

Substitutions:
A bachelor's degree from an accredited college that includes or is supplemented by the following credit hours will substitute for the degree in a specific field:
• at least 24 semester hours (36 quarter hours) in biology, a branch of biology, limnology, biometrics, oceanography, forestry, or natural resource management (excluding courses that focus on agricultural husbandry techniques, human population dynamics, or the design and manipulation of landscapes), of which 16 semester hours (24 quarter hours) are upper division courses; and
• at least 12 semester hours (16 quarter hours) in any combination of two or more of the following: chemistry, physics, mathematics, statistics, geology, hydrology, or GIS.

A master's degree from an accredited college in biology, a branch of biology, limnology, biometrics, oceanography, forestry or natural resource management, will substitute for the required year of professional level biologist experience.

Special Note:"Upper division courses" means courses that are specialized, in-depth and advanced. Such courses emphasize problem-solving, analytical thinking skills, and theoretical applications, with depth and rigor in a discipline's theories and methods; specialization in a particular field or profession; refinement of general education; and/or development of specific intellectual and professional skills. Upper division courses are commonly identified in college catalogs as 300 level and higher.

Some positions may require training in specialized areas such as hydroacoustics, microscopic analysis, underwater research, or fish habitat restoration or enhancement.

Additional Required Information

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS
Please provide at time of application submission:

Cover Letter

If selected, please provide the following at the time of the interview:

University/college transcripts (unofficial copies are acceptable).

COVER LETTER
Your cover letter is the key to an interview for this position. All these strengths must be documented in your cover letter and applicant profile, or you may not advance to the next step in the selection process. If you do not have experience with one or more of the strengths listed, simply state so in your cover letter. Please attach the cover letter to your application before submitting it online or, if unable to attach to your application, fax or email it to the contact provided in the job posting.

SUPPLEMENTAL QUESTIONS
For your application to be evaluated you must answer the Supplemental Questions. Be specific in your answers and tell us how you acquired the relevant experience. Please use complete sentences and proof-read your submissions when answering the supplemental questions. Your responses will be considered a writing sample and will be used to determine which applicants will advance to the interview phase of the recruitment process.

Flexible Staffing
This position is flexibly staffed. The level of the job offer will be based on the selected candidate's eligibility. If hired at the lower level, you will be promoted to the higher-level job class after completing the training plan and meeting the minimum qualifications.

FIREARMS
This position requires the use or possession of a firearm or ammunition. In accordance with the federal Omnibus Consolidated Appropriations Act of 1997 (PL 104-208), if you have been convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence, you may not hold this position.

A "misdemeanor crime of domestic violence" is an offense that is (1) a misdemeanor under Federal or state law; and (2) has, as an element, the use or attempted use of physical force, or the threatened use of a deadly weapon, committed by a current or former spouse, parent, or guardian of the victim, by a person with whom the victim shares a child in common, by a person who is cohabiting with or has cohabited with the victim as a spouse, parent, or guardian, or by a person similarly situated to a spouse, parent, or guardian of the victim.

If you have ever been convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence, do NOT apply for this position.

EDUCATION
To verify education is being used to meet and/or support the required minimum qualifications/competencies, you must fill in the Education section of the application. If you have not obtained a degree, please indicate the number of units completed. Copies of transcripts are required to verify educational credentials used to meet or support the minimum qualifications/competencies for a position and are required. (Unofficial is okay; please ensure the institution/URL name is listed on the transcripts). Transcripts can be attached at the time of application or provided at the time of interview.

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR FOREIGN EDUCATION
Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the above requirements, if applicable. If utilizing this education you must show that the education credentials have been submitted to a private organization that specializes in interpretation of foreign educational credentials and that such education has been deemed to be at least equivalent to that gained in conventional U.S. education programs; or an accredited U.S. state university reports the other institution as one whose transcript is given full value, or full value is given in subject areas applicable to the curricula at the state university. It is your responsibility to provide such evidence when applying. Omission of required documentation listed will result in an incomplete application and you will not receive further consideration.

WORK EXPERIENCE
If using work experience not already documented in your application, also provide the employer name, your job title, dates of employment, and whether full-or part-time. Applications will be reviewed to determine if the responses are supported and minimum qualifications are clearly met. If they are not, the applicant may not advance to the interview and selection phase of the recruitment.

NOTE: Attaching a resume or curriculum vitae is not an alternative to filling out the application in its entirety. Noting "see resume or CV" or any similar response on any portion of your application may lead to a determination your application is incomplete and removal from consideration for this job posting.

MULTIPLE VACANCIES
This recruitment may be used for more than one (1) vacancy. The applicant pool acquired during this recruitment may be used for future vacancies for up to ninety (90) days after this recruitment closes. Interested applicants are encouraged to apply to each recruitment notice to ensure consideration for all vacancies.

EEO STATEMENT
The State of Alaska complies with Title I of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Individuals with disabilities, who require accommodation, auxiliary aides or services, or alternative communication formats, please call 1-800-587-0430 or (907) 465-4095 in Juneau or TTY: Alaska Relay 711 or 1-800-770-8973 or correspond with the Division of Personnel & Labor Relations at: P.O. Box 110201, Juneau, AK 99811-0201. The State of Alaska is an equal opportunity employer.

NOTICE
If you choose to be contacted by email, please ensure your email address is correct on your application and that the spam filter will permit email from the 'govermentjobs.com' domains. For information on allowing emails from the 'governmentjobs.com' domains, visit the Lost Password Help page located at

WORKPLACE ALASKA APPLICATION QUESTIONS & ASSISTANCE
Questions regarding application submission or system operation errors should be directed to the Workplace Alaska hotline at 1-800-587-0430 (toll free) or (907) 465-4095 if you are located in the Juneau area. Requests for information may also be emailed to

For applicant password assistance please visit:
Contact Information

For specific information in reference to the position please contact the hiring manager:

Alex Hansen

Western Arctic Herd Wildlife Biologist 3

Phone: 907-442-1711

Fax: 907-442-2420

alex.hansen@alaska.gov

Careers with the State of Alaska offer MANY benefits

The following information describes typical benefits available to employees of the State of Alaska. Actual benefits received may differ by bargaining unit or branch of government, position type, or be prorated for other than full time work.

For a quick breakdown of the insurance, health, and retirement benefits available for State Employees you can view an (Please note this video is specifically designed for new State Employees.)

Insurance Benefits

Health insurance, which includes employer contributions toward medical/vision/dental
- The following employee groups are under AlaskaCare Benefits administered by the State: See for additional information.
  - AVTEC
  - Confidential
  - Correctional Officers
  - Marine Engineers
  - Mt. Edgecumbe Teachers
  - Supervisory
  - Unlicensed Vessel Personnel/Inland Boatman's Union
  - Exempt employees (not covered by collective bargaining)

The following employee groups are covered by Union health trusts. Contact the appropriate Union for additional information.

General Government
Labor, Trades and Crafts
Public Safety Employees Association
Masters, Mates & Pilots

Employer paid Basic Life insurance with additional coverage available (amount depends on Bargaining Unit)
Optional Insurance Benefits

Group-based insurance premiums for
- Term life (employee, spouse or qualified same sex partner, and dependents)
- Long-term and short-term disability
- Accidental Death and Dismemberment
- Long-term care (self and eligible family members)
- Supplemental Survivor Benefits

Employee-funded flexible spending accounts for tax savings on eligible health care or dependent care expenses
Retirement Benefits

Membership in the Public Employees Retirement System (PERS)/Teachers' Retirement System (TRS)
Matching employer contribution into a defined contribution program (new employees)
Employer contribution into a defined benefit or defined contribution program (current employees)
Contributions to the Alaska Supplemental Annuity Plan in lieu of contributions to Social Security
Option to enroll in the Alaska Deferred Compensation Program
Note: The Defined Contribution Plan, Supplemental Annuity Plan and Deferred Compensation Program offer a variety of investment options

See for additional information

Paid Leave & Other Benefits

Personal leave with an accrual rate increase based on time served
Twelve (12) paid holidays a year

01

Describe your experience and ability working independently, and as a member of a team, in both field and office environments.

02

(Describe your experience monitoring and evaluating wildlife populations including caribou, moose, muskox, brown bear, dahl sheep, wolves and furbearers.

03

Describe your experience and ability to collect data via aerial and ground surveys including radio telemetry, and prepare data summaries, analysis and technical reports.

04

Describe your experience and ability working with a variety of stakeholders, explaining complex regulations and addressing public wildlife safety concerns and nuisance wildlife issues.

05

Describe your proficiency with firearms safety and handling of firearms.

06

Describe your experience living and working in rural Alaska and/or your desired interest to do so.

07

Which position are you applying for? Wildlife Biologist 1 or Wildlife Biologist 2.

Wildlife Biologist 1
Wildlife Biologist 2

Required Question

Jobs in Kotzebue, Alaska, United States

Wildlife Biologist 1/2 Flex (PCN 114197)