Initial Posting Date:

01/21/2026

Application Deadline:

Agency:

Salary Range:

Position Type:

Position Title:

Job Description:

Note: Effective Feb. 1, 2026, the compensation plan for this position will be increased to reflect a Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) of 2.5%. The salary listed in this posting does not reflect the COLA.

MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN OREGON’S NATURAL RESOURCES!

Opportunity Awaits, Apply Today!

As a Human Dimensions Project Leader (Natural Resource Specialist 3) based in Newport, Oregon, your primary responsibilities will include leading the execution of ODFW’s Oregon Marine Reserves Human Dimensions Monitoring & Research Plan and serving as the Department’s primary point of contact with regards to social science related to the marine reserves and nearshore marine resource management. Duties include:

• Identifying social science research priorities

• Leading research design, data collection, analysis and reporting both within ODFW and in collaboration with academic, community and other partners

• External communication

• Outreach and engagement

• Administering research budget

• Coordinating contracts and agreements

• Developing research grant proposals

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.

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

Three years of biological experience performing studies, research, or resource management activities in a fish or wildlife program. At least one year of the experience must be at a technical or professional level performing activities in a fish or wildlife program such as researching and analyzing data, conducting investigations, applying pertinent laws and regulations, or coordinating and monitoring project activities;

AND

a Bachelor’s degree in Fisheries or Wildlife Science, a degree in human dimensions of natural resources or a closely-related Bachelor’s degree with at least 45 quarter (30 semester) hours of biological/ecological coursework, OR three additional years of biological experience performing studies, research, or resource management activities in a fish or wildlife program.

Equivalency Notes:

• A Master’s degree in Fisheries or Wildlife Science, a degree in human dimensions of natural resources or a closely-related Master’s degree in biological/ecological sciences will substitute for up to one year of the required experience.

• A Doctorate degree in Fisheries or Wildlife Science, a degree in human dimensions of natural resources or a closely-related Doctorate degree in biological/ecological sciences will substitute for up to two years of the required experience.

• Applicants who have obtained a Master’s degree or Doctorate that included work experience from an internship, work/study, thesis, or similar program may list this experience in their application to receive credit for the work experience.

• The Master’s degree/Doctorate and applicable work experience will be considered separately, and both the education and applicable experience may count toward minimum qualifications.

Desired Attributes

• Preference given for a Doctorate degree with a focus in social science and/or human dimensions

• Master’s degree in social science (e.g., anthropology, economics, geography, psychology, political science, sociology)

• A publication record of social-ecological studies

• Interdisciplinary social science research experience

• Experience with human dimensions monitoring methods and survey design

• Qualitative and quantitative analysis experience in human dimensions research

• Experience effectively communicating scientific concepts to a wide range of audiences—including the public, stakeholders, rightsholders, and the scientific community—paired with a strong background in outreach and engagement activities

• Experience leading multidisciplinary collaborations

• Economic modeling experience

• Data management experience

• Experience writing and securing grants

APPLICATION DETAILS AND INSTRUCTIONS

• 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 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%

• 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

• 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

• First time applying to the State of Oregon? Consider utilizing a WorkSource Oregon Resource event!

• 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

• 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.

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

• Live, work and play in Newport, 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

• Veterans’ and Oregon National Guard preference: Eligible Veterans and Oregon National Guard servicemembers (current and former) who meet the qualifications of the position will be awarded candidate 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