GAME AND FISH DEPARTMENT

Delivering results that matter by providing best in class support services.

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.

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.

The Arizona Game and Fish Department is an Equal Employment Opportunity agency.

Sportfish Research Biologist 2

Job Location:

Address:  5000 W Carefree Highway, Phoenix, AZ

Posting Details:

Hiring salary range: $48,000 - $55,000 

Grade: 21

Closing Date: 01/19/2026

Job Summary:

WILDLIFE SPECIALIST 2
“Sportfish Research Biologist”
WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT DIVISION / RESEARCH BRANCH / PHOENIX, AZ BASED
FLSA- Exempt / SALARY GRADE 21 / HIRING SALARY RANGE $48,000-$55,000
CLOSING DATE: 01/19/2026

Under the direction of the Aquatic Research Program Manager, this position will conduct sportfish research as part of the Department’s Research Branch whose mission is to conduct robust research and provide scientific information to inform and support the sound management and professional stewardship of Arizona's fish and wildlife resources and to ensure the credibility of the Department’s science. This position requires the ability to work alone and in groups in the field, and to travel, camp, and work irregular hours in harsh conditions, for extended periods, including weekends as project needs dictate. Overnight travel will be required.

Job Duties:

Major duties include:

- Plan, organizes, analyzes, conducts, coordinates and reports on complex and significantly specialized fish studies in the office, field or laboratory to support the management of the state’s sportfish

- Uses specialized methods and techniques to collect, compile, and analyze data to develop findings and recommendations on highly complex and/or specialized fisheries surveys, experiments, and habitat inventory/evaluations on a statewide level. Plan and assesses manpower and equipment needs

- Operates, maintains and repairs a variety of specialized equipment common to research work, including watercraft. Assists management of project budgets, supervises and/or trains subordinate personnel, and makes oral presentations to various audiences

- Reviews popular and technical publications to maintain proficiency in specialty fields

- Provide supervision to research technician and intern level positions. Provide training, professional development and meet supervisor administrative responsibilities.

- Reviews and prepares materials for publication in technical publications or for presentation

- Performs other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities (KSAs):

The candidate must have knowledge of/in: fish and wildlife management, techniques, procedures, programs, principles and philosophy as they pertain to fisheries and related resources, supervision and delegation. Must have the ability to multitask and have strong training and leadership techniques and strong verbal and written communication skills and the ability to apply public relations. The candidate must be able to work independently and as part of a team. The candidate will have the ability to communicate effectively verbally and in