Desert Tortoise Authorized Biologist

CompanyColorado State University
LocationLancaster, CA
Category-
Seniority-
Workplace-
Posted2026-08-22
Viaworkday

Description

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) .   P osition s 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 i ndividuals 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   s pecialists 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 mamm als, raptors and migratory birds,   reptiles   and amphibians.

Essential Job Duties

Desert Tortoise   Natural   R esources   S pecialists   will   primarily support   the   Mojave Desert   tortoise   compliance and   monitoring program   on   Edwards   A ir   F orce   B ase .   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

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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

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

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

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

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

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Colorado State University conducts background checks on all final candidates.

Desired  Q ualifications

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Previous   experience   as a Desert Tortoise Monitor or Authorized Biologist

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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 :

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A resume/CV

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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   alison [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
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Employee Benefits

Colorado State University is not just a workplace; it’s a thriving community that’s transforming lives and improving the human condition through world-class teaching, research, and service. With a robust benefits package, collaborative atmosphere, and focus on work-life balance, CSU is where you can thrive, grow, and make a lasting impact.

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Review our detailed benefits information here.

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Explore the additional perks of working at CSU here.

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For the total value of CSU benefits in addition to wages, use our compensation calculator.

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Lastly, click here for more information about why Fort Collins is consistently ranked in the top cities to live in!

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Background Check Policy Statement

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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.

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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.