Desert Tortoise Authorized Biologist

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 Monitor (less experience required), please apply to that position separately if you do not meet the qualifications for an Authorized Biologist.

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.

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 involving small and large mammals, raptors and migratory birds, reptiles and amphibians.

Desert Tortoise Natural Resources Specialists will primarily support the Mojave Desert tortoise compliance and monitoring program on Edwards Air Force Base. Fieldwork 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.

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

This position will not supervise other employees.

• 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. 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.

• 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.

$50-70/hour

Colorado State University offers a robust benefits package, a collaborative atmosphere, and a focus on work‑life balance. Benefits include health, dental, vision, retirement, paid…