Port Sampler (Biological Science Assistant) – Multiple positions and locations
Seasonal Employment Opportunities. We are hiring multiple positions for the 2026 season.
Astoria
April 20, 2026 – September 30, 2026 (5 positions)
Bandon
April 20, 2026 – September 30, 2026 (1 position)
Brookings
March 1, 2026 – October 31, 2026 (1 position)
April 20, 2026 – September 30, 2026 (1 position)
April 20, 2026 – October 31, 2026 (1 position)
Charleston
March 2, 2026 – October 31, 2026 (1 position)
April 20, 2026 – September 30, 2026 (1 position)
Aprils 20, 2026 – October 31, 2026 (1 position)
June 15, 2026 – September 30, 2026 (1 position)
Depoe Bay
March 2, 2026 – October 31, 2026 (1 position)
Florence
April 20, 2026 – September 30, 2026 (1 position)
Garibaldi
March 2, 2026 – October 31, 2026 (1 position)
April 20, 2026 – October 31, 2026 (2 positions)
June 15, 2026 – October 31, 2026 (1 position)
Gold Beach
April 20, 2026 – September 30, 2026 (1 position
Newport
March 2, 2026 – October 31, 2026 (1 position)
March 30, 2026 – October 31, 2026 (1 position)
April 20, 2026 – September 30, 2026 (1 position)
June 15, 2026 – September 30, 2026 (2 positions)
Pacific City
April 20, 2026 – September 30, 2026 (1 position)
Winchester Bay
April 20, 2026 – September 30, 2026 (3 positions)
(These are estimated dates. Length of season(s) may be shortened or extended depending on project needs, funding, or factors beyond the project’s control).
PLEASE NOTE: This recruitment will be open until filled
8 AM Friday, January 9, 2026: Review of applications for positions starting in March
8 AM Friday, February 27, 2026: Review of applications for positions starting in April
8AM Friday, April 24, 2026: Review of applications for positions starting in June
MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN OREGON’S NATURAL RESOURCES!
Opportunity Awaits, Apply Today! We especially encourage students, early career professionals, and anyone interested in a career in fish, wildlife, and natural resources, to apply! Come learn and train with ODFW and help us fulfill our mission: To protect and enhance Oregon's fish and wildlife and their habitats for use and enjoyment by present and future generations.
As a Port Sampler (Biological Science Assistant), you will conduct field interviews with recreational and/or commercial fishers and conduct recreational fishery effort counts. Responsibilities include:
Handle and collect data and samples from a variety of fish species
Learn proper identification of common marine fishes
Record and summarize field data from interviews and biological sampling
Communicate with anglers, commercial fishers, and the general public
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. They are not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties required.
PLEASE NOTE:
Some driving between workstations is required. Employees will need to provide transportation and proof of auto insurance. Vehicle mileage while working will be reimbursed.
This position requires flexible schedule, outdoor work in all weather, physical tasks (lifting 50 lbs., climbing boats and working on uneven docks.)
For more information, click here: For a full review of the position details, duties and working conditions, click here.
Clearly describe how you meet the minimum qualifications and desired attributes in your application materials. Your application materials will determine if you are selected to move forward in the selection process. Please include detailed work and education history.
WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR
Minimum qualifications are not established for this position; however, we are seeking applicants with the following experience or skills. Preference for interviews may be given to candidates with these skills and background:
Experience accurately collecting and recording field data
Experience conducting creel surveys
Commercial fishery sampling/observing experience
Customer service experience
Anyone who has or is in pursuit of a Fisheries or Wildlife Science degree or related degree in biological/ecological sciences.
APPLICATION DETAILS AND INSTRUCTIONS
Questions about the positions? Please contact justine.kenyon-benson@odfw.oregon.gov
Your application helps determine your starting salary. Be sure it accurately and thoroughly reflects your skills, experience, and education even if you don’t believe it directly relates to the position. We cannot accept any additional application materials submitted after the application deadline.
The State of Oregon does not request or require your age, date of birth, attendance or graduation dates from an educational institution during the application process.
This recruitment will be used to establish a list of qualified people to fill the current vacancy and may be used to fill other vacancies as they occur
The salary listed is the non-PERS qualifying salary range. If the successful candidate is PERS qualifying, the salary range will reflect an additional 6.95%
State of Oregon Employees, must apply through their employee Workday account.
Please save a copy of this job announcement for reference, as it is not available for you to view after the announcement deadline
Reasonable accommodation for interviews will be provided upon request to individuals with disabilities
The job posting closes at 11:59 PM (PDT/PST) on the close date. After you submit your application, be sure to respond to the two questionnaires relating to public records requests and veterans’ preference immediately following your submittal. These questions are necessary to complete the application process
First time applying to the State of Oregon? Consider utilizing a WorkSource Oregon Resource event!
If you are experiencing difficulty applying for this position or have questions, please contact the ODFW Human Resources office at 503.947.6051
BENEFITS OF JOINING OUR TEAM
ODFW is dedicated to cultivating a diverse and inclusive workforce as we strive to represent and better serve our neighboring communities. Our most important asset is our employees, and each person brings unique, different, and important contributions to the workplace and community we serve. With Oregon’s changing demographics, a workforce that reflects this change will make us stronger and create an opportunity for better decision making.
To learn more about the agency and the work we do, view the following video at https://myodfw.com/about
If you enjoy the outdoors, Oregon is the place for you. We have glaciated mountain peaks to the east, the Pacific Ocean to the west and the massive Columbia River Gorge to the north. You can fish 365 days a year, and there is hunting for big game, waterfowl, and game birds. The Oregon coast attracts thousands of people who clam, crab and fish in the ocean for halibut, salmon, and tuna. The outdoor opportunities are endless when it comes to fish and wildlife in Oregon! Oregon is known for their vineyards, breweries, and adventures for the whole family to enjoy. To learn more about the department, the work we do, and see our beautiful state, view the following video at https://youtu.be/8CjDPiPMGAk
Additional benefits include:
11 paid holidays a year and a competitive benefits package
Advancement and learning opportunities that will help grow your career with the State of Oregon
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
The employee in this position will be represented by the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) and will be subject to all terms and conditions of the collective bargaining agreement. Pay and benefits on all job listings may change without notice
Finalists are subject to both a criminal history and motor vehicles check. Adverse background and/or driving information may disqualify you from further consideration
Within three days of hire, applicants will be required to complete the U.S. Department Homeland Security's I-9 form confirming authorization to work in the United States. ODFW participates in E-Verify. ODFW is not able to support VISA sponsorships
Eligible veterans who meet the qualifications will be given veterans' preference. For more information, please visit Veterans Resources
Helpful Links & Resources
How to Set Job Alerts | Workday Applicant FAQ | What You Need to Know to Get the Job
Oregon Job Opportunities Webpage | Classification and Compensation | Pay Equity |
Ready to Relocate to Oregon | Carpool Matching Tool: Get There Oregon
More information about our agency can be found on our social media accounts and at myodfw.com and http://www.dfw.state.or.us/
The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer