Otolith Lab Biologist – Fish Ageing & Microstructure

tsu.edu; Olympia (WA); On-site; USD 85,000 - 105,000; Full time

Job summary

Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife seeks an Otolith Laboratory Biologist to conduct research on Pacific salmon and other fishes. You will prepare otolith samples, perform microstructural analyses, and report findings to support management and conservation efforts.

The role combines laboratory work, data analysis, and field travel, with duties across thermal marking and aging research, aimed at informing state resource decisions and ESA stock protection.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in fisheries, biology, natural resource science, environmental science, or related field.
• One year of experience with processing or analyzing calcified structures.
• Two years as Fish & Wildlife Biologist 2 or equivalent.
• Experience with otolith thermal marks is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Prepare otolith samples and sections for analysis.
• Record thermal mark information into databases and plan marking schedules.
• Perform statistical analysis and report results.
• Travel to study sites for field collections and hatchery support.

Skills

Otolith analysis

Laboratory techniques

Data recording

Microscopy

Education

Bachelor's degree in fisheries/biology/natural resources/environmental science

Two years as Fish & Wildlife Biologist 2

Tools

Lapping wheels

Image analysis software

Job description

Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife seeks an Otolith Laboratory Biologist to conduct research on Pacific salmon and other fishes. You will prepare otolith samples, perform microstructural analyses, and report findings to support management and conservation efforts.

The role combines laboratory work, data analysis, and field travel, with duties across thermal marking and aging research, aimed at informing state resource decisions and ESA stock protection.