[Hiring] Senior/Principal Fisheries Scientist @Spheros Environmental

Role Description

Spheros Environmental is looking for a Senior/Principal Fisheries Scientist to join our growing team. The successful applicant will demonstrate expertise across diverse, highly complex assignments, delivering innovative and effective solutions while serving as a key business developer, technical resource, and mentor within the team. This position will join a growing team of fisheries and aquatic scientists working on Northwest fisheries and aquatic science issues across our region (WA, OR, ID, CA, and MT). The role centers on:

• Fish passage at hydroelectric dams
• Endangered Species Act (ESA) consultation and permitting
• Hatchery operations and modernization
• Monitoring and evaluation studies for public utility districts, federal and state agencies, municipalities, and tribes

The position requires teamwork to complete field and office-based work, including study design, quantitative analysis, technical reporting, and regulatory submissions. Familiarity with hydroelectric relicensing and ESA Section 7 consultation is preferred. The applicant will oversee staff and be supervised by the Fisheries Department Manager.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in fisheries science, biology, ecology, or a related field; Master's or Doctoral degree strongly preferred
• 10-15+ years of relevant experience, with demonstrated depth and breadth in Pacific Northwest salmonid issues
• Specialized experience in one or more of the following: fish passage at hydroelectric dams, ESA consultation and permitting, or hatchery operations and modernization
• Experience securing and managing project funding and supervising junior staff
• Professional certification relevant to fisheries (e.g., American Fisheries Society Certified Fisheries Professional) desirable
• Valid Driver’s License
• Strong computer skills; experience with statistical or quantitative analysis software a plus

Requirements

• Serves as subject matter expert on Pacific Northwest salmonid issues and fish passage
• Leads ESA consultation and permitting, including Section 7 consultations and biological assessments supporting hydroelectric relicensing and hatchery projects
• Provides technical leadership on hatchery operations, modernization, and master planning, and on fish passage evaluation and design at hydroelectric dams
• Designs and leads field studies, data collection, quality control, and monitoring and evaluation (M&E) programs, including multi-year quantitative studies
• Leads business development through their developed network of professional contacts
• Serves as primary or senior author on reports and regulatory submissions
• Develops project scopes, schedules, and budgets, manages subcontractors, prepares project updates for leadership and clients
• Develops new tools, ideas, and approaches and leads initiatives that improve technical work, efficiency, and project delivery
• Trains and mentors staff, including quantitative and junior scientists, and supports their professional growth
• Participates in industry thought leadership (publications, peer review, networking)

Benefits

• Salary range of $110,000 - $145,000, with opportunities for bonuses and 401(k) contributions
• Ongoing training, conference opportunities, and pathways to leadership and ownership roles
• Hybrid work options and flexible remote work opportunities in approved states
• We are an equal opportunity employer that fosters a diverse and supportive work environment
• Opportunities to provide clients with services from all of Spheros Environmental practice areas