Aquatic Research and Conservation Center Research Biologist

GAME AND FISH DEPARTMENT

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.

Aquatic Research and Conservation Center Research Biologist

Job Location:

Address: 1970 North Page Springs Road, Cornville, Arizona 86325

Posting Details:

Hiring salary range: $53,000 - $65,000

Grade: 22

Closing Date: 07/19/2026

Job Summary:

WILDLIFE SPECIALIST SENIOR
“Aquatic Research and Conservation Center Research Biologist”
WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT DIVISION / RESEARCH BRANCH / CORNVILLE, AZ BASED
FLSA-EXEMPT / SALARY GRADE 22 / HIRING SALARY RANGE $53,000 - $65,000
CLOSING DATE: 07/19/2026

This Research Biologist position at the Arizona Game & Fish Department (AZGFD) Aquatic Research and Conservation Center (ARCC) will lead research focused on native fish or other aquatic species, with an emphasis on research to improve techniques for propagating captive lineages of rare and sensitive species, increase production, and other research support for conservation and management of native aquatic species. The ARCC, located in Cornville, Arizona, is close driving distance to the communities of Cottonwood, Sedona, and Flagstaff. This unique facility houses rare lineages of native fish species and supports research to propagate and re-establish native aquatic species.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs)
Biology & Aquaculture: Deep understanding of fish and wildlife management, fish biology, endangered desert fishes, water chemistry, and intensive fish culture (pond-culture, raceways, and circular tanks).
Data & Research: Advanced math, statistics, experimental design, and computerized/manual data analysis for hatchery and complex research data.
Field & Trades: Basic trade skills (carpentry, plumbing) and the ability to operate/maintain specialty equipment.
Soft Skills: Exceptional written and verbal communication, public relations, problem-solving, and the ability to work self-supervised or within a research team.
Physical Requirements: Ability to work varied hours indoors and outdoors in harsh conditions, travel for overnight trips, and lift/carry at least 50 pounds.

Minimum Qualifications & Prerequisites
Education: A Bachelor's degree in wildlife science or a closely related field. (An advanced degree is preferred and may substitute for one year of experience).
Experience: Three (3) years of experience in fisheries, conservation, aquaculture, or an equivalent field.
Pre-Employment Requirements: Must pass a post-offer medical/physical exam.
Driver’s License: Must possess a valid class-appropriate driver's license and pass driver record checks. Employees operating a personal vehicle must maintain statutory liability insurance.

This position serves as the research biologist at the Research Branch's Aquatic Research and Conservation Center (ARCC). The Research Branch's 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. Under the direction of the Aquatic Research Program Manager, this position conducts research on native aquatic species, with an emphasis on research to improve techniques for propagating captive lineages of rare and sensitive fish species, to support their conservation or re-establishment in the wild. This position may also conduct research on non-fish species. Works as part of the larger Research Branch team to accomplish the branch’s goals and operational objectives including, but not limited to, conducting research, analyzing data,