Fisheries Biologist (Part-Time Consultant)

Most literature review work asks you to read everything. This one asks you to make the calls that matter. Our team and AI tools handle intake and first-pass screening of Columbia River fish research; you decide what is relevant, how it is classified, and whether the science holds up, on a schedule that fits around your other work.

FWI is hiring a Fisheries Biologist on a part-time consulting basis to support the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Portland District, on its Columbia River Fish Mitigation (CRFM) literature compilation project. You will provide the subject matter judgment behind a screened library of biological and fisheries research, reviewing flagged and borderline records and spot-checking final packages. It is well suited to a consultant, academic, or semi-retired professional who knows the Columbia River system.

FWI is expanding rapidly and has been recognized as a 2024, 2025 and 2026 Top Workplace, offering excellent growth opportunities in a collaborative environment.

Work Schedule and Location

Remote: This role is fully remote and flexible, with no set weekly schedule. Candidates in the Pacific Northwest are preferred, and you will need occasional availability for check-ins during Pacific business hours.

• Review borderline and flagged literature records for relevance to Columbia River fish mitigation topics
• Confirm or correct subject classifications and screening decisions
• Advise the team on terminology, species, life stages, and research methods
• Spot-check screened records and final packages for scientific accuracy
• Join periodic check-ins with the Program Manager and team

Required: 

• Bachelor's degree in fisheries biology, aquatic ecology, or a closely related field (Master's or Ph.D. preferred)
• 5+ years of professional experience in fisheries science or management
• Familiarity with Pacific salmon and steelhead biology and Columbia River Basin fish passage and mitigation research
• Ability to review scientific literature efficiently and make clear, documented relevance calls
• Ability to pass a background check; U.S. citizenship may be required

Desired: 

• Experience with USACE, NOAA Fisheries, BPA, tribal, or state fisheries programs in the Columbia River Basin
• Knowledge of ESA-listed salmonids, juvenile and adult fish passage, and hydropower operations
• Experience conducting literature reviews or systematic reviews
• Familiarity with Zotero or other reference management tools

FWI is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/vets.

At FWI, we place the highest importance on creating an exceptional employee experience. You'll have opportunities to achieve your career aspirations through internal promotions, professional development, and other recognition and rewards programs. Join our team and take advantage of the many benefits we offer, including:

• Health Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Long-term and Short-term Disability Insurance
• Life Insurance
• 401(k) Plan
• Holiday Pay
• Paid Time Off

$50.00/hr to $57.00/hr, depending on experience, education and clearance level. 

Bachelor's degree in fisheries biology or related field (Master's/PhD preferred); 5+ years fisheries science experience; familiarity with Pacific salmon and Columbia River research; ability to pass background check; U.S. citizenship may be required.

Key Responsibilities

• reviewing literature
• classifying records
• advising on terminology

Skills & Tools

Zotero

Job Details

• Category: Research and Development (R&D)
• Seniority: Senior Level
• Commitment: Part Time, Contract
• Workplace: Remote — United States
• Salary: USD 104,000 – 118,560 / year
• Languages: English

Benefits

• Generous paid time off
• Retirement plan

About FedWriters, Inc.

A consulting firm providing subject matter expertise and literature review services for scientific projects. — Industry: Consulting Services