The Aquatic Biologist assists with field surveys, data collection, and reporting. This position will also assist with other program related activities.
Typical Physical Demands: Requires sitting for long periods of time, some standing, stooping, bending and reaching is required and may require lifting up to 50 pounds. Requires manual dexterity sufficient to operate a computer and telephone. Additionally, the position requires near and far vision in proofreading correspondence and work-related documents. Acute hearing is required.
PRIMARY TASKS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Assist conducting fish and aquatic related research, population inventory, and habitat evaluation studies on the Kootenai Tribe of Idaho Reservation and throughout the Tribe’s aboriginal territory.
- Prepare written summaries of research activities.
- Collect water samples—Monitor key water quality parameters, with an emphasis on macro-nutrients needed for in-river biological growth and development, and heavy metals that may be detrimental to food web health.
- Prepare reports, surveys, habitat evaluations, environmental inventories and other field activities in line with the Program’s goals.
- Prepare and maintain detailed records and reports of activities to comply with Bonneville Power Administration requirements or other tribal agreements.
- Work with Canadian Ministry of Water, Land and Natural Stewardship to implement nutrient addition and monitoring in Kootenay Lake.
- Assist at workshops with other agencies to discuss management, research, and monitoring strategies related to this project
- Other job specific duties as assigned by Supervisor.
OTHER DUTIES AND FUNCTIONS
- Supervise technical staff as necessary.
- Work in both a team and individual setting.
- Work flexible hours and at times long hours (possibly at night) when required.
- Travel for job related activities and training when required (possibly for multiple days).
SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE AND OTHER REQUIREMENTS
- Must support the Kootenai Tribe of Idaho Tribe’s vision, mission, and core values.
- Bachelor’s degree in Fish and Wildlife Management or closely related field including at least two years of demonstrable professional experience closely related to wildlife or fisheries management activities and other essential duties of this position.
- Excellent knowledge and understanding of fish and aquatic habitats.
- Excellent professional and technical writing skills.
- Highly skilled in the application of computers and various software packages essential to performance of job duties (Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Access, ArcView/GIS Skills preferred).
- Excellent oral and written communications skills with clear ability to work effectively with a diverse group of colleagues and audiences inclusive of co-workers, government and public officials, tribal members, local businesses and industry groups, and various members of the general public.
- Must be in good physical condition and able to perform strenuous field activities under inclement weather conditions and in rough terrain.
- Must abide by the Tribe’s Drug and Alcohol Policy.
- Must have a valid driver’s license, good driving record, and be Tribally insurable.
