BIOLOGIST TRAINEE
There is no civil service exam for Biologist Trainee. As a non-competitive state or local title, it is filled on the strength of meeting the listed qualifications.
It asks for a bachelor's degree. Pay on the FY2027 schedule runs $58,222 to $60,876, and state payroll currently lists 2 people in the title, most of them at Environmental Protection.
How to apply
This title is not filled by examination — agencies appoint directly.
See every real route in, and where to apply. One agency employs it. We don't track live vacancies.
How to apply for this title →Who employs this title
State payroll records show 2 people working under this title. The median actual salary is $57,536. The agencies employing the most are:
- Environmental Protection (2)
Counts from NJ YourMoney agency payroll. See statewide workforce analytics.
Official job specification
The text below is the official specification published by the New Jersey Civil Service Commission. The plain-language summary and analysis above are derived from it by NJ Civil Service Navigator.
Definition
Under the close supervision of a Principal Biologist or other supervisory official in a state department or local government agency, as a trainee and productive worker, works in a specialized field requiring the application of biological principles; learns to perform the various research and testing activities of the assigned area; does other related duties as required.
Examples of work
As trainee and productive worker: Learns to conduct routine testing and analysis work. Learns to conduct field studies, collect data, and take needed samples and specimens. Learns to conduct ecological and other technical studies. May assist in the development of informational materials and programs. Analyzes water samples to determine water quality or possible sources of pollution. Learns to use the tools and equipment needed for research and analysis. Learns to prepare wildlife population estimates. Prepares clear, technically sound, accurate and informative reports containing findings, conclusions, and recommendations. Maintains records and files. Will be required to learn how to utilize various types of electronic and/or manual recording and information systems used by the agency, office, or related units.
Education
Graduation from an accredited college or university with a bachelor's degree in one of the Biological Sciences.
License
Appointees will be required to possess a driver's license valid in New Jersey only if the operation of a vehicle, rather than employee mobility, is necessary to perform the essential duties of the position.
Knowledge, skills and abilities
Knowledge of the biological sciences. Knowledge of biological laboratory procedures and techniques. Ability to learn to use the tools and equipment used for research and analysis. Ability to learn to conduct studies, collect data, and take needed samples. Ability to prepare reports. Ability to maintain records and files. Ability to interpret laws, rules, and regulations and apply them to specific situations. Ability to learn how to utilize various types of electronic and/or manual recording and information systems used by the agency, office, or related units. Ability to read, write, speak, understand and communicate in English sufficiently to perform the duties of the position. American Sign Language or Braille may also be considered as acceptable forms of communication. Persons with mental or physical disabilities are eligible if they can perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation. If the accommodation cannot be made because it would cause the employer undue hardship, such persons may not be eligible. ADVANCEMENT: Appointees who successfully complete the twelve (12) month training period will be eligible for advancement to an Assistant Biologist title in State Service. In local service, appointees who successfully complete the twelve (12) month training period will be eligible for advancement to the title of Biologist, Mosquito Extermination (). The inability of an employee to attain a level of performance warranting advancement to the Assistant Biologist level shall be considered as cause for separation.
Note
The examples of work for this title are for illustrative purposes only. A particular position using this title may not perform all duties listed in this job specification. Conversely, all duties performed on the job may not be listed.