Senior Warmwater Fisheries Biologist, New Mexico Department of Game and Fish

Position Overview

Application Deadline: June 13, 2026

Salary: $26.57 to $39.86 per hour

Education Required: Bachelor’s degree in biology, fisheries, wildlife, ecology, or related natural resource field

Experience Required: At least 1 year directly related

Description

The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish is hiring a Senior Warmwater Fisheries Biologist in Las Cruces, New Mexico, at $26.57 to $39.86 per hour, with applications due June 13, 2026.

The Department’s Fisheries Management Division is organized into three sections: Hatchery, Compliance and Habitat, and Research and Management. This position sits within the Research and Management Section’s Sportfish Program, which manages New Mexico’s coldwater and warmwater sport fisheries to provide quality angling opportunities for the people and anglers of New Mexico.

The Senior Warmwater Fisheries Biologist develops and implements science-based management actions to improve Black Bass and Temperate Bass recreational angling opportunities statewide. The role reports to the Warmwater Sportfish Supervisor and combines field assessments, data analysis, project oversight, and partner engagement to advance the conservation and management of warmwater sportfish.

Responsibilities

• Assess Black Bass and Temperate Bass sport fisheries across New Mexico to identify opportunities to enhance fishery quality.
• Analyze data and prepare reports summarizing the results of fisheries evaluations.
• Develop, recommend, and implement management strategies to improve Black Bass and Temperate Bass fisheries statewide.
• Apply sound scientific principles to evaluate populations and make management recommendations.
• Develop and oversee projects addressing specific management needs.
• Communicate warmwater fisheries information to partner agencies, NGOs, and the public.
• Engage frequently with partner agencies, non-governmental organizations, and the public.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, fisheries science or management, wildlife science or management, animal science, forestry, ecology, or similar related natural resource degree, plus 1 year of directly related work experience.
• Substitution: any combination of related education and direct experience totaling 5 years may substitute for the required education and experience.
• Pre-employment background investigation required.
• Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license soon after hire.
• Must possess or obtain a current State of New Mexico Defensive Driving Course Certificate as a condition of continued employment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience operating motorboats and rafts.
• Experience with fish sampling gear (electrofishers, nets, seines, traps).
• Familiarity with experimental design.
• Strong data analysis and interpretation skills.

Additional Notes

• Schedule split: approximately 35 percent office, 65 percent field.
• Field work requires hiking long distances, working in all weather, and operating 4×4 trucks, rafts, motorboats, OHVs, and stock (horses and mules).
• Irregular hours including nights, weekends, and holidays, with statewide travel and camping in remote locations.
• Position not covered by a collective bargaining agreement.
• This posting will be used for ongoing recruitment and may close at any time.

How to Apply

Apply through the New Mexico State Personnel Office careers portal. For questions, contact Edward Enriquez, Warmwater Sportfish Supervisor, at edward.enriquez@dgf.nm.gov or 505-490-2809.