Initial Posting Date:
02/26/2026Application Deadline:
03/08/2026Agency:
Department of Fish and WildlifeSalary Range:
$3,515 - $4,124Position Type:
EmployeePosition Title:
Coldwater Project Assistant (Biological Science Assistant)Job Description:
Help the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife fulfill its mission: To protect and enhance Oregon's fish and wildlife and their habitats for use and enjoyment by present and future generations.
We are hiring for one full-time, seasonal position located in Salem, Oregon. The duration of this position is anticipated to be from April 15, 2026 through October 31, 2026. (These are estimated dates. Length of season(s) may be shortened or extended depending on project needs, funding, or factors beyond the project’s control).
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. Opportunities for camping, hiking, and wildlife viewing abound. 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. Oregon is known for their vineyards, breweries, and adventures for the whole family to enjoy. Music, museums, and community events help Oregonians celebrate its diversity as well as its connectedness. Oregon truly offers a rich cultural experience that is unique to the Pacific Northwest!
To learn more about the department, the work we do, and see our beautiful state, view the following video at https://youtu.be/8CjDPiPMGAk
What you will do:
In this role, you will focus on data collection efforts associated with Water Program-led field studies, with a primary focus on a multi-year statewide effort to identify and document cold water sources around the state. This will involve deploying and retrieving water temperature thermistors at tributary junctions and presumed cold-water patches in select geographies, as well as collecting data, writing descriptions of sample site characteristics and site access information.
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.
What we are looking for:
Minimum Qualifications:
Minimum qualifications are not established for this position; however, we are seeking applicants with the following experience or skills. Preference for interviews may be given to candidates with these skills and background:
Ability to conduct field work under a variety of weather conditions ranging from heat in summer to cold in winter.
Experience (e.g., fish sampling, conducting habitat surveys, hydrology, or biological sampling
Experience collecting biological samples from fish and accurately recording field data
Must be self-motivated, willing to work under a variety of conditions, and responsible for the quality of data collected
Anyone who possess or are in pursuit of a Fisheries, hydrology, or Wildlife Science degree or related degree in biological/ecological sciences.
Comfortable communicating with team members and the public
Must maintain their own schedule, decide how to safely and efficiently access and work in streams and estuary, and collect data following a complex protocol.
Must work independently, often in remote areas. Surveyors may be able to contact a field supervisor by phone or email only once per week, and be visited in the field only once every two to three weeks.
Questions about the position? Please contact Spencer Sawaske at: Spencer.R.Sawaske@odfw.oregon.gov
Application Details and Instructions
Your application helps determine your starting salary. Be sure it accurately and thoroughly reflects your skills, experience, and education even if you don’t believe it directly relates to the position. We cannot accept any additional application materials submitted after the application deadline.
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.
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.
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%.
Reasonable accommodations 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.
First time applying to the State of Oregon? Consider utilizing a WorkSource Oregon Resource event!
If you are experiencing difficulty applying for this position or have questions, please contact the ODFW Human Resources office at 503-947-6051.
Benefits of Joining Our Team
The Department of Fish and Wildlife (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.
Additional benefits include:
Work/life balance, 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.
Get There - Oregon’s easy-to-use carpool matching tool and trip planner.
Additional Details:
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. Driving is required for this position. 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 | What You Need to Know to Get the Job
Oregon Job Opportunities Webpage | Classification and Compensation
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