Habitat & Access Specialist

GENERAL DESCRIPTION:  

The Wyoming Game and Fish Department is seeking three (3) Habitat and Access Specialists. These positions are key contributors to the State of Wyoming’s responsibility to manage and conserve public lands for wildlife resources and the public. Specialist, carry out a variety of land management practices associated with the development and maintenance of Wildlife Habitat Management Areas (WHMAs), and Public Access Areas (PAAs).

As part of the Habitat and Access (H&A) team, these specialists implement a broad range of wildlife land management practices from maintaining essential infrastructure and managing water delivery systems, to enhancing wildlife habitat and improving public access. Success in this role requires balancing independent facility responsibilities with collaborative work that advances WGFD’s Strategic Habitat Plan, strengthens partnerships with landowners and stakeholders, and ensures that Wyoming’s public lands are managed for long-term wildlife conservation and recreational access.

Human Resource Contact: Dezzaree Schott/ dezzaree.schott@wyo.gov 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:  The listed functions are illustrative only and are not intended to describe every function which may be performed in the job level.

Team Environment & Land Management

• Carry out land management projects in alignment with WGFD’s Strategic Habitat Plan and statewide conservation objectives.
• Manage infrastructure on WHMAs and PAAs, including roads, parking areas, fences, signs, boat ramps, and recreational facilities.
• Contribute to wetland, rangeland, and upland habitat projects that support diverse wildlife species and maintain healthy ecosystems.
• Support irrigation and water delivery systems that sustain forage production, wetlands, and dense nesting cover for wildlife.
• Implement weed control, vegetation management, and other stewardship practices on public lands.
• Represent WGFD in interactions with contractors, landowners, and the public, promoting positive partnerships.

Field Operations & Technical Duties

• Operate and maintain farm and heavy equipment (tractors, skid steers, and backhoes).
• Conduct farming activities including disking, seeding, mowing, mulching, and food plot planting.
• Construct and maintain wildlife-friendly and livestock fences.
• Operate ATVs/UTVs, 4×4 vehicles, trailers, and power tools safely and effectively.
• Perform carpentry and other facility maintenance tasks as needed.
• Carry out other assigned projects that enhance aquatic and terrestrial wildlife habitats.
• Carry out noxious weed identification and control efforts.
• Evaluate wildlife habitat/range conditions through data collection, analysis and interoperation under the direction and guidance of regional Biologist.
• Attend trainings and workshops to keep current with techniques and issues of importance in wildlife management.
• Ability to work with minimal supervision in remote locations, difficult terrain, and in all weather conditions.

Qualifications

PREFERENCES/**AGENCY REQUIREMENTS: 

Preference may be given to those with farm or ranch background or experience related to range management, fish and wildlife resource management, habitat development or college coursework towards a degree in range, fish, or wildlife management.

KNOWLEDGE: 

• Self-starter able to work independently with little direct supervision.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills that reflect emotional maturity.
• Knowledge of outdoor skills, wildlife identification and ecology, and land navigation.
• Ability to learn general concepts of wildlife management.
• Familiarity with farm and ranch operations.
• Proficient in basic mathematic, conversions, and formulas.
• Knowledge of Department policies and standard practices.
• Familiarity with Wyoming statutes and Game and Fish Commission Regulations.

PHYSICAL WORKING CONDITIONS:

• Weekend work will be required
• Positions may require extended stays in campers
• Must be able to lift 50lbs
• Position will often work independently outside in all weather conditions

NOTES: 

• FLSA: Non-Exempt
• This is an At-Will Employee Contract (AWEC) position.
• Successful applicants must pass a background check before appointment.
• Positions will be located in Saratoga, Laramie and Yoder.
• Contracts will run from 1/1/2026 through 11/30/2026.
• Uniform, rain gear, and other necessary gear will be provided when in the field.
• In addition to submitting the state application, please submit a cover letter to Jerry Cowles, Habitat and Access Supervisor, 1212 South Adams, Laramie, WY 82070, or email: jerry.cowles@wyo.gov The cover letter should state location preference and include career plans and suitability for the job.
• CONTACT: For more information regarding these positions, contact Jerry Cowles, Habitat and Access Supervisor, at 307-721-1378.

Supplemental Information

Click here to view the State of Wyoming Classification and Pay Structure.

URL: http://agency.governmentjobs.com/wyoming/default.cfm

The State of Wyoming is an Equal Opportunity Employer and actively supports the ADA and reasonably accommodates qualified applicants with disabilities.

Class Spe