Introduction

Natural Resources Biologist II – Aquatic Animal Health Biologist

GRADE

15

LOCATION OF POSITION

Oxford, Maryland (Talbot County)

Main Purpose of Job

The Department of Natural Resources, Fishing and Boating Services in Oxford Maryland� is currently accepting applications for a Natural Resources Biologist II – Aquatic Animal Health Biologist. This position assists in fish health monitoring and research projects in the Chesapeake Bay and non-tidal waterways in MD. Operates small vessels and uses a variety of fishing gear to collect fish and water quality data. Assists as needed in fish kill investigations. Performs fish necropsy procedures and collects samples for analysis, including samples for hematology, histology, microbiology, parasitology, and molecular testing for disease identification. Uses professional knowledge and aptitude in biology to assist in the implementation of field surveys to determine the prevalence, distribution, and severity of disease in fish populations under the guidance of the project lead and supervisor.� This position is also responsible for responding to marine mammal and sea turtle stranding events for the state of Maryland to ensure rapid and efficient response to dead stranded animals and to collect pertinent data in a timely manner.� Shares responsibility for the stranding response cell phone and hotline, including coordination with reporting parties and other agencies.� Performs proper field response, in potentially adverse conditions, such as heat, rain, and wind,� to dead, stranded marine animals and necropsy.� Responds independently to dead marine mammals and sea turtles to collect morphometric data and bring the animal back to the lab for further investigation with the Marine Mammal and Sea Turtle Stranding Coordinator.� Executes standardized necropsyprocedures and sampling techniques and collects tissues for analysis and outside research requests. Collects and enters federally mandated data per the department’s Stranding Response Program (the program) agreement into national databases. Uses professional knowledge of biology to write gross pathology reports, presenting necropsy findings and cause of death determinations of specimens. Performs duties associated with the program’s participation in national partner networks of response organizations, including response facilitation, data sharing, and participation in regular meetings. Provides training in proper necropsy techniques, data collection, and safety for volunteers, and agency collaborators.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Experience:Four years of professional experience conducting research and analysis in thefields of biology, biochemistry, environmental science, natural science, naturalresources management, botany, marine biology, marine ecology, physicaloceanography, ichthyology, fisheries management, wildlife management or zoologyand two years of experience in performing professional biological workin the field of natural resources management. Notes:1.Candidates may substitute the possession of a Bachelor’s degree in biology,environmental aquaculture, natural science, natural resources management,botany, marine biology, marine ecology or physical oceanography, ichthyology, fisheriesmanagement, wildlife management, zoology, or a natural resources managementrelated field of study from an accredited college or university and two yearsof experience in performing professional biological work in the field ofnatural resources management for the required experience.2.Candidates may substitute graduate education beyond a Bachelor's degree from anaccredited college or university in a natural resources related field of studyas described above at the rate of 15 graduate credit hours for one year of therequired experience.3.Candidates may substitute U.S. Armed Forces military service�experience asa commissioned officer in the natural resources�management and biologicalsciences classifications or natural�resources management and biologicalsciences specialty codes in�the wildlife biology field of work on ayear-for-year basis for the required experience.

LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS AND CERTIFICATIONS

Employees in this classification may be assigned duties which require the operation of a motor vehicle. Employees assigned such duties will be required to possess a motor vehicle operator's license valid in the State of Maryland.

SELECTION PROCESS

Please make sure you provide sufficient information on your application to show that you meet the qualifications for this recruitment. All information concerning your minimum qualifications must be submitted by the closing date. We will not consider information submitted after this date. Successful candidates may be ranked as Best Qualified, Better Qualified, or Qualified and placed on the employment (eligible) list for at least one year. For education obtained outside the U.S., a copy of the equivalent American education as determined by a foreign credential evaluation service must be provided prior to hire.

EXAMINATION PROCESS

Your application is part of the examination process. The examination will consist of a rating of your education, training, and experience related to the requirements of this position. The rating will be based on the information provided on your application. Therefore, it is important you provide all the experience and education related to this position completely and accurately.

BENEFITS

STATE OF MARYLAND BENEFITS�

FURTHER INSTRUCTIONS

The online application is strongly preferred. If you are unable to apply online, you may submit a paper application and supplemental questionnaire to: Department of Natural Resources, Human Resources, 580 Taylor Avenue, C-3 Annapolis, MD 21401. The Human Resources unit is not responsible for applications sent to any other address.Faxed or e-mailed applications will not be accepted. Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of completing the application.If you are having difficulty with your user account or have general questions about the online application system, please contact the MD Department of Budget and Management at Application.Help@maryland.gov ; ATTN: Recruitment and Examination Division. Please note, standard business hours for the help desk are 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Inquiries made after hours will be reviewed the following business day.If you need to make adjustments to a submitted application before the announcement deadline or if you have general inquiries regarding this recruitment, please contact Emilee Knott at Alexandra.gast@maryland.govPlease provide ample time to complete the application template. If you are having technical difficulties submitting an application on the day of the deadline, it is strongly advised that you complete the JobAps physical application template and hand deliver to DNR - HRS at 580 Taylor Avenue, Annapolis, MD 21401 before 4:30 p.m. The Maryland Department of Natural Resources cannot guarantee that late submissions, as a result of technical difficulties, will be accepted.TTY Users: call via Maryland RelayCandidates with disabilities and bilingual candidates are encouraged to apply. We thank our Veterans for their service to our country, and encourage them to apply. As an equal opportunity employer, Maryland is committed to recruiting, retaining and promoting employees who are reflective of the State’s diversity.