Desert Tortoise Authorized Biologist

Job Description

Position Summary: 

Multiple Desert Tortoise Natural Resource Specialist positions are available to be hired for an ongoing, multi-year project on Edwards Air Force Base (EAFB). Positions are hourly, as-needed, and expected to be less than 120 hours over the course of 9 months. Individuals hired are not guaranteed a set schedule. Schedules will be coordinated with both CEMML and DoD staff. Individuals will be hired based on project needs and candidate experience and expertise. Scheduling of field activities may occur several months to only a few days in advance. This posting will be used to fill desert tortoise Authorized Biologist positions. We are also seeking individuals able to perform the duties of a desert tortoise Monitors (less experience required), please apply to that position separately if you do not meet the qualifications for an Authorized Biologist.

Full Consideration Date:

Applications will be accepted and positions filled on a rolling basis.

Organization: 

The Center for Environmental Management of Military Lands (CEMML) is a research, education and service unit within the Warner College of Natural Resources at Colorado State University (CSU). CEMML applies the latest and most appropriate science to promote the sustainable management of natural and cultural resources on Department of Defense and other public lands. We provide technical support, conduct applied research, and offer career development and learning opportunities to support resource stewardship. We collaborate with our sponsors and within CSU to resolve complex environmental issues, leaving a legacy of science-based decisions to sustain our resources for future generations. To learn more about CEMML’s contributions to land management and our mission, vision, and values, please visit http://www.cemml.colostate.edu/. 

Location: 

The Edwards AFB-based CEMML team employs wildlife, vegetation, and restoration specialists that support the Air Force mission. Our projects include vegetation surveys, sensitive habitat management, nuisance wildlife response, and other wildlife projects that involve small and large mammals, raptors and migratory birds, reptiles and amphibians. 

Essential Job Duties: 

Desert Tortoise Natural Resources Specialists will primarily support the Mojave Desert tortoise compliance and monitoring program on Edwards Air Force Base. Field work will be the primary duty for these positions. Work will consist of pre-and post-activity surveys for desert tortoise and their sign, communication with project proponents to ensure compliance with minimization measures, coordination with multiple parties to schedule surveys, post-field reporting and data entry. Support for other natural resource projects may occur as needed. The CEMML team at Edwards AFB operates entirely on military lands, as a result, field work may be cancelled with little notice due to military activities. 

Conditions of Employment:

Must have a valid driver's license and be legally authorized to work in the United States.

Supervision:

This position will not supervise other employees.

Minimum Qualifications: 

• The candidate must have the experience and training necessary to be approved as a desert tortoise Authorized Biologist by the US Fish and Wildlife Service. This generally requires significant and recent experience handling and surveying for wild desert tortoises. Note: CEMML will facilitate the actual review and approval process with the US Fish and Wildlife Service for the candidate. Please contact us to request a blank application form if you have not previously been authorized. All offers for the Authorized Biologist position are contingent on USFWS approval

• Ability to work in challenging field conditions (heat, cold, carrying heavy equipment, ability to walk long distances) 

• Demonstrated adaptability to field work related issues (health and safety conscious and able to perform equipment troubleshooting) 

• Must have a valid driver’s license or the ability to obtain a driver’s license by the employment start date 

• The successful candidate must be eligible to work in the United States by proposed start date. CEMML will not provide visa sponsorship for this position.  

• Colorado State University conducts background checks on all final candidates. 

Desired Qualifications: 

• Previous experience as a Desert Tortoise Monitor or Authorized Biologist 

• Previous experience with on-site environmental compliance and construction monitoring, specifically related to desert tortoise 

Applicant Instructions: 

Applications will be accepted and positions filled on a rolling basis. To apply for this position please submit the following: 

• A resume/CV

• A cover letter highlighting your experience related to desert tortoise handling/monitoring/surveying, experience with Mojave ecosystem work, any experience working within the Department of Defense (with particular emphasis on support at Edwards AFB), how you meet the Minimum Qualifications, why you are applying for the position, and confirmation that you understand this is a part-time as-needed position.

Point of contact for any inquiries: 

Christina Herron-Sweet, Wildlife/Technical Lead [email protected] 

Alison Haigh, Wildlife Biologist [email protected]

Salary Range

$50-70/hour

Required Application Documents

To apply, please upload the following applicant documents. Ensure your materials fully address the required and preferred job qualifications of the position. Please note, applicants may redact information from their application materials that identifies their age, date of birth, or dates of attendance at or graduation from an educational institution.

Cover Letter, Resume/CV, Special Required Documentation

Employee Benefits

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Background Check Policy Statement

Colorado State University strives to provide a safe study, work, and living environment for its faculty, staff, volunteers and students. To support this environment and comply with applicable laws and regulations, CSU conducts background checks for the finalist before a final offer. The type of background check conducted varies by position and can include, but is not limited to, criminal history, sex offender registry, motor vehicle history, financial history, and/or education verification. Background checks will also be conducted when required by law or contract and when, in the discretion of the University, it is reasonable and prudent to do so.

EEO

Colorado State University (CSU) provides equal employment opportunities to all applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.