BIOLOGIST I

State of Arkansas; Little Rock (AR); On-site; USD 59,000 - 87,000; Part time

Job summary

The State of Arkansas is seeking a Biologist I to assist with biological research, data collection, environmental monitoring, and conservation programs across the state.

Entry-level position requiring six months of biology-related experience, plant identification knowledge, and flexible scheduling during survey seasons; work will be performed primarily in field settings as part of a dedicated team.

Qualifications

• At least six months of experience in biology, or a related field.
• Plant identification knowledge with emphasis on native Arkansas species.
• Ability to adapt to flexible schedules during survey seasons.

Responsibilities

• Assist in conducting biological field surveys for wildlife, aquatic life, plant species, and habitats.
• Collect samples and observational data using standard scientific methods and tools.
• Record, enter, and maintain data in the field and prepare reports.
• Support conservation, habitat restoration, and environmental protection programs.
• Maintain equipment and organize supplies for field work.
• Ensure compliance with environmental regulations and permits with supervision.

Skills

Detail-oriented

Reliable

Communication

Teamwork

Job description

Select how often (in days) to receive an alert:

Location: DAH-Central Administration -AH01

County:Pulaski

Anticipated Starting Salary:$58,700

Special Job Requirements: Plant identification knowledge with an emphasis on the native plants of Arkansas. Knowledge of standard herbarium practices and botanical survey techniques. Ability to maintain a flexible work schedule during plant survey seasons.

This is an Extra Help position and pays $28.22 per hour

The Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism has three major divisions: Arkansas State Parks, Arkansas Heritage and Arkansas Tourism. Arkansas State Parks manages 52 state parks and promotes Arkansas as a tourist destination for people around the country. Arkansas Heritage preserves and promotes Arkansas’s natural and cultural history and heritage through four historic museums and four cultural preservation agencies. Arkansas Tourism improves the state’s economy by generating travel and enhancing the image of the state.

Position Information

Job Series: Biologists – Career Path

Classification: Biologist I

Class Code: SBI01P

Pay Grade: SPC01

Salary Range: $58,700 - $86,876

Job Summary

The Biologist I is an entry-level scientific position responsible for assisting in biological research, data collection, environmental monitoring, and supporting conservation or natural resource programs across the state.

Primary Responsibilities

• Assist in conducting biological field surveys for wildlife, aquatic life, plant species, and/or habitats.
• Collect samples and observational data using standard scientific methods and tools (e.g., GPS, sampling nets, binoculars).
• Perform routine environmental measurements and inspections under the guidance of senior staff.
• Accurately record, enter, and maintain data collected in the field.
• Assist in preparing reports, charts, and documentation used for internal analysis, public reporting, or compliance purposes.
• Support conservation, habitat restoration, wildlife management, or environmental protection programs through logistical assistance and data processing.
• Maintain equipment, organize supplies, and ensure field tools are properly stored and calibrated.
• Participate in activities that help ensure agency compliance with environmental regulations and permits (e.g., wetland delineation support, threatened species monitoring).
• Conduct preliminary reviews or assessments under the supervision of a higher-level biologist.

Knowledge and Skills

• Detail-oriented in data gathering, field observations, and documentation.
• Reliable in completing tasks on time and following protocols with minimal supervision.
• Able to clearly report findings both orally and in writing to colleagues and supervisors.
• Works well in field teams or interdisciplinary groups in both structured and remote settings.

Minimum Qualifications

At least six months of experience in biology, or a related field.

Satisfaction of the minimum qualifications, including years of experience and service, does not entitle employees to automatic progression within the job series. Promotion to the next classification level is at the discretion of the department and the Office of Personnel Management, taking into consideration the employee’s demonstrated skills, competencies, performance, workload responsibilities, and organizational needs.

Licensure/Certifications

N/AOTHER JOB RELATED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE MAY BE SUBSTITUTED FOR ALL OR PART OF THESE BASIC REQUIREMENTS, EXCEPT FOR CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS, UPON APPROVAL OF THE QUALIFICATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE.

The State of Arkansas is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, citizenship, national origin, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by law.