Initial Posting Date:
03/03/2026Application Deadline:
03/15/2026Agency:
Department of Fish and WildlifeSalary Range:
$3,515 - $4,124Position Type:
EmployeePosition Title:
Leaburg Fish Sorter (Biological Science Assistant) - Multiple PositionsJob Description:
Hiring three positions with anticipated durations of:
Two seasonal: May 16, 2026 – October 31, 2026
One Limited Duration: June 1, 2026 – October 31, 2026
Housing may be available
(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).
MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN OREGON’S NATURAL RESOURCES!
Opportunity Awaits, Apply Today! We especially encourage students, early career professionals, and anyone interested in a career in fish, wildlife, and natural resources, to apply! Come learn and train with ODFW and help us fulfill our mission: To protect and enhance Oregon's fish and wildlife and their habitats for use and enjoyment by present and future generations.
As a Leaburg Fish Sorter (Biological Science Assistant) with the South Willamette Watershed District in Leaburg, Oregon, you will:
Operate and maintain the Leaburg fish sorter/traps to capture adult and juvenile fishes
Identify, enumerate and measure fish collected in the trap, and maintain them in good health until time of release
Maintenance and operation of water systems
Utilize minnow, Onieda and box traps and electrofishing to collect fish
Conduct spawning ground surveys for bull trout and Chinook salmon
Review fish passage videos (enumerate and ID species)
Maintain and repair fish sampling gear and equipment
Data collection and entry
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.
For a full review of the position details, duties and working conditions, click here.
Clearly describe how you meet the 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 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:
Experience collecting and recording data
Experience operating and maintaining fish sorting and trapping equipment
Experience identifying and enumerating fish
Experience operating and maintaining water systems
Experience conducting spawning ground surveys
Maintain and repair fish sampling gear and equipment
Experience working as a team member
Anyone who has or is in pursuit of a Fisheries or Wildlife Science degree or related degree in biological/ecological sciences
APPLICATION DETAILS AND INSTRUCTIONS
Questions about the positions? Please contact jeffrey.s.ziller@odfw.oregon.gov
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
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%
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
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
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.
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