Ocean Career: NC DEQ Marine Fisheries Biologist

The primary mission of the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is to provide science-based environmental stewardship for the health and prosperity of all North Carolinians. The North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is the lead stewardship agency for the protection of North Carolina's environmental resources. The organization, which has offices from the mountains to the coast, administers regulatory programs designed to protect air quality, water quality, and the public's health, and works to advance in all-of-the-above energy strategy that fits North Carolina's needs. DEQ also offers technical assistance to businesses, farmers, local governments, and the public and encourages responsible behavior with respect to the environment through education programs provided at DEQ facilities and through the state's school system. DEQ touches the lives of all North Carolinians in many ways to enhance and ensure our quality of life.

The Division of Marine Fisheries

The North Carolina Division of Marine Fisheries (DMF) is responsible for the stewardship of the state’s marine and estuarine resources. The DMF’s jurisdiction encompasses all coastal waters and extends to 3 miles offshore. Agency policies are established by the nine-member Marine Fisheries Commission and the Secretary of the Department of Environmental Quality. North Carolina is a member of the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission, the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council, the South Atlantic Fishery Management Council, and the National Shellfish Sanitation Program.

Description of Work

This Marine Fisheries Biologist acts as a data analyst for the Protected Resources Program, which includes the North Carolina Observer Program (NCOP). In coordination with the Protected Resources Environmental Program Supervisor I (EPSI), the Biologist will develop, execute, and maintain data protocols for the NCOP and will use statistical methods to analyze and interpret data collected by the NCOP and other division programs. The Biologist II will work in tandem with other program staff to ensure requirements under the current Incidental Take Permits held by the division are met in a timely and effective manner. The Biologist II will participate in fisheries management activities of the division, including development and implementation of fishery management plans and cooperating with other federal, state, and regional agencies. The Biologist must be able to work in a dynamic and team-oriented environment, must have strong organizational skills, the ability to work with the public and technical staff, and be able to multi-task and balance competing priorities.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Conducts data analysis and interpretation of results
  • Responsible for data monitoring and management
  • Contributes to fisheries management activities
  • Serves as lead or co-lead for program written reports

Minimum Education and Experience

Bachelor’s degree in wildlife or fisheries management, fisheries science, zoology, or a biological science, or a closely related curriculum from an appropriately accredited institution and three years of experience in wildlife or fisheries management; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Salary range: $61,545 – $62,445

Application deadline: January 21, 2026

Learn more about this opportunity and how to apply.

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