Field Biologist

This position is employed by the National Wildlife Refuge Association (NWRA) in partnership with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and is stationed at Bitter Lake National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) near Roswell, NM. Bitter Lake NWR lies at the northern edge of the Chihuahuan Desert and southeastern Great Plains; it is recognized as a Ramsar international wetland of importance due to the high rates of endemism and importance as a stopover for migratory birds. The selected Field Biologist will work with the USFWS Supervisory Biologist to lead crews of interns and technicians in invasive species management and climate adaptation projects to improve habitat conditions for federally threatened and endangered fish, invertebrate, and plant species. Additional responsibilities include monitoring rare plants and aquatic wildlife, data entry and analysis, report writing, conducting waterbird surveys, and assisting with day-to-day refuge operations.

The position will last for 12 months with a potential for an extension of up to 3 years based on performance. Temporary housing is provided with this position. This position is eligible for a Public Lands Certificate (for more info see: https://www.fws.gov/law/public-land-corps-act)

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in wildlife or related field
• Knowledge of wildlife ecology and wetland management techniques
• Ability to lead groups of interns and volunteers in the field
• Able to work in adverse field conditions (e.g., extreme heat, venomous snakes, biting insects)
• Valid driver’s license
• Excellent writing skills

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Experience with invasive species removal (herbicide applications, cut stump treatments)
• GIS experience, ArcGIS suite preferred, particularly FieldMaps
• Waterbird identification
• Plant identification
• Ability to operate chainsaw, UTV, hand tools

For questions or additional information on the position please contact carl_jacobsen@fws.gov