Job Announcements

CalCareers Job Announcement

Job Code and Working Title: JC-535803 - Fisheries Ecologist
Classification: Environmental Scientist
Work Location: Yolo County
Job Type: Permanent, Full Time

The California Department of Water Resources has an opportunity for a Fisheries Ecologist (Environmental Scientist) available in their Aquatic Ecology Unit. The final filing date for this announcement closes 11/3/2026.

A little bit about the position:
This position offers an exciting opportunity to be part of a team of interdisciplinary professional scientists in the Aquatic Ecology Unit (AEU), working across a diverse range of field, laboratory, analytical, and research activities. AEU conducts innovative aquatic ecology research and long-term monitoring in the Yolo Bypass and Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta. The incumbent is responsible for leading the collection of fisheries, invertebrate, water quality, and other ecological data for the Yolo Bypass Fish Monitoring Program using gear such as a rotary screw trap, fyke trap, beach seines, plankton nets, and water quality instruments. The incumbent will lead field crews, operate boats and specialized sampling equipment, troubleshoot field challenges, and process chemical, biological, and molecular samples in the laboratory.

In addition to supporting long-term monitoring, the position will have opportunities to lead and contribute to novel research through special studies, from developing study plans and sampling approaches to analyzing data and communicating findings through technical reports, peer-reviewed publications, and presentations. This position requires adapting and modifying field methods to meet changing demands or situations, while maintaining high standards for safety, data quality, and permit compliance. The successful candidate will work closely with an interdisciplinary team of scientists to address complex aquatic resource management questions.

Review the job announcement for more information on the job description and duties, desirable qualifications, and how to apply.

Questions

Questions related to the position can be directed to the hiring unit contact, Gareth Johnson, at (916) 882-0989 or DISE_HR@water.ca.gov.