Water Quality and Aquatic Invasive Species Program Manager

<div> <h1><span>GAME AND FISH DEPARTMENT</span></h1> <h2><span><em><span>Delivering results that matter by providing best in class support services.<br/><br/>Join the only state agency in Arizona responsible for conserving and protecting more than 800 wildlife species. Be part of a passionate group of people who want to make a positive impact on outdoor recreation in Arizona by managing resources for safe, compatible opportunities for current and future generations. From fishing, boating and off-highway vehicle use to shooting sports, hunting and wildlife watching, Arizona Game and Fish supports it all. Our biologists use the best available science in their management actions, and our wildlife managers are on the ground in your communities making a difference every day. Opportunities abound beyond the field at AZGFD, so check us out and see what we’re all about! Consider joining our workforce today. AZGFD celebrates the diversity of Arizona's people, landscapes and of course, wildlife. However you choose to enjoy Arizona’s wildlife and wild places, the outdoors is open for all.<br/><br/>The Arizona Game and Fish Department manages fish and wildlife in Arizona and under the authority of the Arizona Game and Fish Commission, creates and implements scientific methods and regulations to effectively manage fish and wildlife habitat via conservation, enforcement, hunting, fishing, watercraft and off-highway vehicle recreation, and shooting sports. The Arizona Game and Fish Department dedicates itself to excellence, values its employees and supports a culture of stewardship, teamwork and partnerships.<br/><br/>The Arizona Game and Fish Department is an Equal Employment Opportunity agency. </span></em></span></h2> </div> <h3 dir="ltr"><span><strong>Water Quality and Aquatic Invasive Species Program Manager</strong></span></h3> <div> <span>Job Location:</span> </div> <div> <h4><span><span>Address:  5000 West Carefree Highway, Phoenix, AZ 85086</span></span></h4> </div> <div> <span>Posting Details:</span> </div> <div> <h4><span><span>Salary Range: $70,000 - $100,989 <br/></span></span></h4> <h4><span><span>Grade: 24<br/></span></span></h4> <h4><span><span>Closing Date: 08/27/2026</span></span></h4> </div> <div> <span>Job Summary:</span> </div> <div> <p><span>WILDLIFE SPECIALIST SUPERVISOR STATEWIDE<br/>“Water Quality and Aquatic Invasive Species Program Manager”<br/>WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT DIVISION / AQUATIC WILDLIFE BRANCH / PHOENIX, AZ BASED<br/>FLSA-EXEMPT / GRADE 24 / $70,000 - $100,989<br/>CLOSING DATE: 08/27/2026<br/><br/>Join the only state agency in Arizona responsible for conserving and protecting more than 800 wildlife species. The Arizona Game and Fish Department celebrates the diversity of Arizona's people, landscapes, and wildlife. We dedicate ourselves to excellence, value our employees, and support a culture of stewardship, teamwork, and partnerships.<br/><br/>Whether it is fishing, boating, hunting, or wildlife watching, AZGFD supports it all. We use the best available science to ensure the outdoors remains open for all current and future generations.<br/><br/><strong>Location:</strong> Phoenix, Arizona (Hybrid Remote: minimum 2 days per week in-office)<br/><strong>Schedule:</strong> Monday–Friday, 8-hour days (Occasional overnight/all-day travel required) <br/><br/><strong>Required Education &amp; Credentials</strong><br/><strong>Education:</strong> Bachelor’s degree in Fisheries Management, Biology, or Fisheries/Wildlife Science (with an emphasis on fisheries or aquatic ecosystems).<br/><strong>Driver's License:</strong> Must possess and maintain a valid state-issued driver's license.<br/>Screenings: Contingent upon a post-offer medical exam and E-Verify employment check.<br/><br/><strong>Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs)</strong><br/><strong>Scientific Expertise:</strong> Strong background in southwest ecosystems, fisheries biology, toxicology standards, and aquatic species habitat needs.<br/><strong>Regulatory Acumen:</strong> Familiarity with NEPA, EPA, and Endangered Species Act (Sections 7, 9, and 10) regulations, alongside 404/401 permitting.<br/><strong>Leadership &amp; Admin:</strong> Proven experience in personnel management, budget administration, strategic planning, and multi-stakeholder project coordination.<br/><strong>Data &amp; Analytics:</strong> Proficient in standardized field-sampling, study design, statistical analysis, and interpreting complex data sets.<br/><strong>Communication:</strong> Exceptional negotiation, conflict resolution, verbal communication, and technical report-writing skills. </span></p> <p><em><span>This position may be available for remote work within Arizona (2 days per week in the office)</span></em><em><span> based upon the department's business needs and continual meeting of expected performance measures.</span></em></p> </div> <div> <span>Job Duties:</span> </div> <div> <p><span>The Statewide Water Quality and Aquatic Invasiv