Role Overview:

Blue Valley Ranch is seeking a full-time Fish and Wildlife Biologist to support and advance fisheries, wildlife, and habitat management programs across the ranch. This position is responsible for implementing monitoring, applied research, and management actions in a highly dynamic, working landscape. The successful candidate must be capable of operating independently in the field and managing multiple projects with minimal supervision while maintaining a high standard of scientific rigor.

Job Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university in Fisheries Biology, Wildlife Biology, Natural Resources, Ecology, or a closely related field
• 2–5 years of relevant field and analytical experience preferred
• Proficiency in fisheries sampling techniques, including electrofishing and PIT tagging
• Experience with ecological data collection and data analysis
• Highly self-motivated and able to work independently in field settings
• Ability to prioritize tasks and manage multiple projects simultaneously
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail
• Ability to clearly communicate technical information
• Ability to perform extensive fieldwork in variable weather and terrain conditions, including:
  • Wading in rivers
  • Lifting and carrying equipment (must be able to lift up to 50 pounds).
  • Working long or irregular hours as needed (see schedule section)
• Must have a valid driver’s license
• All job offers are contingent upon successful completion of background and reference checks

Responsibilities (Primary):

• Design and conduct fisheries and habitat monitoring programs
• Perform electrofishing surveys and PIT tagging
• Collect and analyze fish population, health, and condition data
• Maintain and calibrate water quality monitoring stations
• Collect and process algae and macroinvertebrate samples
• Manage and organize data
• Conduct statistical analysis
• Prepare technical reports and summaries to support management decisions

Responsibilities (Secondary):

• Operate and maintain the ranch fish hatchery and broodstock program
• Conduct wild spawn operations
• Provide feeding and care for broodstock and production fish
• Perform tank and raceway maintenance
• Monitor hatchery water quality
• Carry out general hatchery upkeep and operations
• Support habitat restoration and land management efforts
• Assist with wetland and moist-soil management activities
• Conduct riparian and upland habitat monitoring
• Evaluate forest treatment projects
• Assist with wildlife habitat improvements, including establishment and maintenance of food plots

Ad Hoc

• Must be open to supporting broader ranch operations as needed, including tasks related to:
  • Irrigation systems
  • Livestock operations
  • Land stewardship activities
  • General property operations
  • Guest services / Family Visits

Schedule:

• Scheduling availability may include Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays, in addition to the regular workweek.
• Work hours may vary based on season, family residency periods, guest visits, and special events.
• Subject to PTO blackout period (May–October), unless prior approval is obtained for special life events.