Biologist

Duties

At the full performance level (GS-11) the major duties of this position include, but are not limited to the following:

• Performs the duties of the Refuge Manager of Palmyra Atoll NWR taking the lead in addressing logistical, biosecurity, biological monitoring, coordination, public involvement, safety and management issues associated with operations at Palmyra Atoll National Wildlife Refuge.
• Represents the Refuge as the sole on-site representative for up to 6-months a year where they will be directly implementing applied management actions (i.e. invasive species control projects) and wildlife inventory and monitoring surveys including leading teams of volunteers and partners to ensure all participants follow all protocols and schedules including record keeping and report writing.
• While on Palmyra, oversees permit holders primarily composed of scientists conducting research and private vessel owners and other visitors accessing open areas of the refuge for recreational wildlife viewing activities. Leads the review of Special Use Permit applications and developing final permit documents.
• Promotes, maintains and/or supports effective and collaborative partnerships to attain natural resource conservation goals. Supports, develops and/or improves long-term partnerships within the Service and with other federal agencies, and with military, states, Indigenous organizations, foreign countries, local and regional governments, universities, non-governmental organizations, and the public to reach common goals.

Duties will be developmental in nature when filled below the full performance level.

The work may involve a varied amount of field work. When engaged in field activities, the work is at times strenuous, requiring exertion such as walking over wet, rough, uneven or rocky surfaces; bending, crouching, stooping, stretching, reaching, or similar activities. The work requires average agility and dexterity. Travel to remote study sites may be required via boats, small aircraft, snowmobiles, all‑terrain vehicles, and/or on foot.

Extended periods of camping in tents or cabins in remote field camps may occur. Incumbent must be able to cope with the pressure of short time deadlines, responsibilities of logistics to remote areas, cultural conflicts, and adverse weather conditions. The incumbent may be required to lift objects weighing up to 50 pounds.

The work requires both office and outdoor work. The office is adequately lighted, heated and ventilated. Frequent travel by various means of surface and air transportation is required to attend meetings and to conduct field work. A variety of temperature and weather extremes may be encountered while in the field. The incumbent may be subject to large numbers of biting insects and may be required to work in close proximity to large animals.

In addition, the incumbent may be exposed to work situations involving hazardous substances, and must comply with Service health and safety policies, including use of appropriate safety clothing and equipment. He/she may need to carry a firearm for personal protection from wildlife. The incumbent is expected to conduct duties in a safe and orderly manner so as not to endanger self, fellow workers, or property.

• Must be a U.S. Citizen or National.
• Appointment subject to background investigation and favorable adjudication.
• Males born after 12-31-59 must be registered for Selective Service.
• Direct Deposit participation required.
• Successfully pass the E-Verify employment verification check. To learn more, visit
• Must have and maintain a valid driver's license throughout employment.
• You will be required to travel overnight away from home up to 6 months a year to…