Fish Division Director

at State of Vermont in Montpelier, Vermont, United States

Job Description

The Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department is recruiting for a Fish Division Director. This is an extraordinary opportunity for a team-oriented individual to transition the division into its next chapter of successful fish management. This position is ideal for an individual interested in change management, skilled at adaptive leadership, and experienced in collaboration. 

This Fish Division Director reports directly to the Fish & Wildlife Department Chief of Operations and oversees the Fish Management Section, Fish Culture Section, and Fishing Access Area Program. Working in this position offers an excellent opportunity to make an impact in a small state through involvement in all aspects of fish and wildlife conservation, policy, research, management, fish culture, aquatic habitat protection, and land management and access. This is a full-time position, located at the National Life Office in Montpelier, VT.

Responsibilities:

• Supervises four direct reports and oversees a staff of approximately 45 permanent employees and 10-20 temporary employees.
• Directs five state fish culture stations and the state fish help program in coordination with the Fish Culture Operations Manager.
• Directs biological staff in the central office and five regional offices for fish biology, habitat conservation, regulatory review, research and management in coordination with two Fish Program Managers.
• Directs the Fishing Access Area Program with over 200 developed boat launches in coordination with the Fish and Wildlife Lands and Facilities Administrator.
• Oversees the Fish Division budget and associated Capital Construction budget for fisheries infrastructure improvements.
• Participates in the development of Department strategic plans and operational plans to achieve goals and outcomes.
• Guides the process for establishing fishing regulations. Sets goals and identifies priorities for a number of fish culture, species and habitat management teams.
• Reviews the work of fish culturists and fish biologists in the preparation an implementation of fish management activities and plans, land acquisition, habitat protection, environmental review activities, and the use of cultured fish.
• Interprets federal and state legislation and assists in establishing rules, regulations, policies, and schedules. Prepares grant proposals and monitors spending of various grants.
• Evaluates and recommends proposed legislation. Participates in meetings with agency, state, and federal officials and with private organizations on fish management and aquatic habitat issues.
• Presents expert testimony for the Department in a variety of forums.
• Responds to information requests from state and federal agencies, private organizations, and the general public. 
• Works closely with Division Directors in Wildlife, Law Enforcement, Outreach, and Business Office, and with other fish Chiefs throughout the Northeast states and provinces. 
• Desired Skills/Knowledge/Abilities:
  • Thorough knowledge of the principles and concepts of fisheries biology and management.
  • Considerable knowledge of the biology and associated habitats of fish species found in Vermont.
  • Considerable knowledge of management and supervisory principles and practices.
  • Considerable knowledge of the principles and practices of public administration.
  • Working knowledge of the legislative process, budget building, and Fish and Wildlife Board operations.
  • Working knowledge of fish culture operations.
  • Working knowledge of the principles and practices of research.
  • Ability to direct staff in program operations, planning, research and development functions and execute positive and professional practices that promote team building.
  • Ability to motivate and guide subordinates to achieve program objectives.
  • Ability to effectively communicate with diverse groups, both orally and in writing.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.
  • Skilled in change management and adaptive leadership.
  Environmental Factors

  Duties are performed primarily in a standard office setting. Occasional field work and attendance at public meetings require that private means of transportation be available. Some work outside of normal office hours may be required. Interaction may be anticipated with individuals and groups expressing strong dissent from and hostility to Department programs and policies.