Aquatic Biologist 2

THE POSITION

Become an Aquatic Biologist 2 with the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and support efforts that keep streams and wetlands safe. This position offers the chance to conduct field studies, review permit applications, and help resolve environmental concerns. You will play a key role in protecting aquatic life and guiding responsible project development. DEP encourages dedicated professionals who value science, problem solving, and environmental stewardship to apply.

DESCRIPTION OF WORK

This position supports the Waterways and Wetlands Program by reviewing permit applications, conducting field investigations, and providing scientific guidance to resolve environmental issues. As an Aquatic Biologist 2, you will perform the following duties:

• Permit Review: Conduct environmental reviews of Water Obstruction and Encroachment Permit applications to ensure compliance with laws and regulations
• Agency Coordination: Work with local, state, and federal agencies to review environmental information and address project needs
• Technical Guidance: Provide scientific assistance to engineers, planners, officials, and the public regarding aquatic resources and regulations
• Field Investigation: Perform site inspections to evaluate aquatic conditions, verify permit requirements, and document findings
• Compliance Actions: Investigate complaints, support enforcement actions, and prepare reports, notices, and technical recommendations
• Program Support: Use electronic systems to enter data, review records, manage information, and follow established procedures

Interested in learning more? Additional details regarding this position can be found in the position description.

Work Schedule and Additional Information:

• Full-time employment
• Work hours are 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday - Friday, with a 30-minute lunch.
• Travel will be required for site visits
• Telework: You may have the opportunity to work from home (telework) part-time, up to 3 days per week. In order to telework, you must have a securely configured high-speed internet connection and work from an approved location inside Pennsylvania. If you are unable to telework, you will have the option to report to the headquarters office in Pittsburgh. The ability to telework is subject to change at any time. Additional details may be provided during the interview.
• Salary: Selected candidates who are new to employment with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania will begin employment at the starting annual salary of $60,538 (before taxes).
• You will receive further communication regarding this position via email. Check your email, including spam/junk folders, for these notices.

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE, TRAINING & ELIGIBILITY

QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum Experience and Training Requirements:

• One year as an Aquatic Biologist 1 (Commonwealth job title or equivalent Federal Government job title, as determined by the Office of Administration); or
• One year of professional experience in aquatic biology or water pollution biology and a bachelor's degree with a major in a biological science, natural science, environmental science, or natural resource management, including or supplemented by six college credits in freshwater aquatic biology, aquatic ecology, aquatic botany, water pollution biology, entomology, limnology, or closely related aquatic science coursework; or
• An equivalent combination of experience and training that includes six college credits in freshwater aquatic biology, aquatic ecology, aquatic botany, water pollution biology, entomology, limnology, or closely related aquatic science coursework.

Special Requirement:

• This position requires possession of a valid motor vehicle license.

Other Requirements:

• You must meet the PA residency requirement. For more information on ways to meet PA residency requirements, follow the link and click on Residency Guidelines.
• You must be able to perform essential job functions.

Commonwealth employees who wish to use their seniority rights must apply to the internal posting for their seniority rights to be considered.

How to Apply:

• Resumes, cover letters, and similar documents will not be reviewed, and the information contained therein will not be considered for the purposes of determining your eligibility for the position. Information to support your eligibility for the position must be provided on the application (i.e., relevant, detailed experience/education).
• If you are claiming education in your answers to the supplemental application questions, you must attach a copy of your college transcripts f