Fisheries Biologist III

Salary: $52,100.00 - $88,600.00 Annually
Location : York County, SC
Job Type: FTE - Full-Time
Job Number: 190219
Agency: Department of Natural Resources
Division: Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries Division
Opening Date: 07/07/2026
Closing Date: 8/3/2026 5:00 PM Eastern
Agency Specific Application Procedures:: All applicants must apply online.
Class Code:: LE70
Position Number:: 61128198
Normal Work Schedule:: Monday - Friday (8:30 - 5:00)
Pay Grade: GEN09
Hiring Range - Min.: $56,451.00
Hiring Range - Max.: $70,300.00
EEO Statement: Equal Opportunity Employer
Veteran Preference Statement: South Carolina is making our Veterans a priority for employment in state agencies and institutions.

Job Responsibilities
This employee will be responsible for conducting management and research activities on the freshwater fisheries resources within Freshwater Fisheries Region 2.

Job Duties Include:

• Collecting and supervising the collection of scientifically valid data.
• Performing an annual review of current data collection methods and evaluating opportunities for improvement.
• Performing fish kill investigations according to valid methodology when necessary.
• Identifying freshwater fisheries management opportunities and developing management strategies based on analysis of reliable data collected from the aquatic resources in Region 2.
• Staying up-to-date with published and popular literature on fisheries management and applying new and proven methods to Region 2 fisheries projects in the areas of:
  • survey and inventory (data analysis), research, habitat enhancement and restoration, and expansion of recreational angling opportunities.
• Assisting with writing and editing of federal annual reports, internal fisheries reports, and peer-reviewed publications.
• Attending professional meetings to present on work projects when possible, and representing the region in a professional manner.
• Acquiring knowledge on pond fish population dynamics, conducting on-site analysis of pond balance utilizing 15' & 30' quadrant haul seines, providing written management recommendations to pond owners, and maintaining records of those recommendations.
• Rendering technical assistance to private pond owners by providing water quality testing, stocking information, fish population management recommendations, and/or nuisance aquatic plant identification and control recommendations.
• Conducting outreach activities to resource user groups, education entities, as well as private and public organizations.
• Collaborating with university researchers (professors and graduate students) on research projects in Region 2.

Minimum and Additional Requirements

A master's degree in biology, chemistry or wildlife management and two (2) years of experience in fish, wildlife or marine management or research programs; or a bachelor's degree in biology, chemistry, wildlife management or related technical area and four (4) years of experience in fish, wildlife or marine management or research programs.
Preferred Qualifications

Advanced knowledge of aquatic biotic processes. Knowledge of fisheries management principles, practices and techniques. Experience in the design, development, and implementation of fisheries surveys and management plans. Proficient with MS Office software (e.g., Word and Excel) and statistical software (e.g., R and SAS) to compile, analyze, and report project results. Ability to disseminate project results to the public and peers in writing and via oral presentations. Supervisory experience preferred. Familiarity with aquatic plant identification and management. Ability to swim and lift heavy objects. Ability to obtain Boating Safety certificate and Category 5 Non-Commercial Pesticide Applicator's License.
Benefits for State Employees
The state of South Carolina offers eligible employees generous benefits, including health and dental insurance; retirement and savings plan options; and paid vacation and sick leave. Plus, work-life balance programs such as telecommuting and flexible work schedules are available to employees of some state agencies.

Insurance Benefits
Eligible employees may enroll in health insurance, which includes prescription coverage and wellness benefits. Other available insurance benefits include dental, vision, term life insurance, long term disability and flexible spending accounts for health and child care expenses.

Retirement Benefits
State employees are also offered retirement plan options, including defined benefit and defined contribution plans. Additionally, eligible employees may elect to participate in the South Carolina Deferred Compensation Program, which is a voluntary, supplemental retirement savings plan offering 401(k) and 457 plan options.

Workplace Benefits
State employees may also be eligible for other benefits, including tuition assistance; holiday, annual and sick leave; and discounts on purchases, travel and more.

Note: The benefits above are available to most state employees, with the exception of those in temporary positions. Employees in temporary grant and time-limited positions may be eligible for all, some or none of these benefits as benefits are associated with each position type. For these positions, contact the hiring agency to determine what benefits may be available.
01

Are you currently employed with SCDNR?

• Yes
• No

02

Do you have AT LEAST a master's degree in biology, chemistry or wildlife management AND two (2) years of experience in fish, wildlife or marine management or research programs OR a bachelor's degree in biology, chemistry, wildlife management or related technical area AND four (4) years of experience in fish, wildlife or marine management or research programs?

• Yes
• No

Required Question