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). 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 Monitor positions (less experience required, must work under supervision of an Authorized Biologist). We are also seeking individuals able to perform the duties of a desert tortoise Authorized Biologist (high standard of qualifications), please apply to that position separately if you meet the qualifications.
Full Consideration Date :
For full consideration, applications must be received by July 1, 2026
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 specialists 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 mammals, raptors and migratory birds, reptiles and amphibians.
Essential Job Duties:
Desert Tortoise Natural Resources Specialists will primarily support the Mojave desert tortoise compliance and monitoring program on Edwards Air Force Base. 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 for desert tortoise Monitors :
Previousexperience working in desert ecosystems
Previousexperience conducting surveys for and/or handling wild desert tortoises
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 licenseor 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.
Desired qualifications for Monitors :
Previousexperienceas a Desert Tortoise Monitor or Authorized Biologist
Previousexperience 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:
-A resume/CV, and
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 christina.herron-sweet@colostate.edu
Alison Haigh, Wildlife Biologist alison .haigh@colostate.edu mailto:alison.haigh@colostate.edu
Salary Range
$30-50
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
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.
Review our detailed benefits information here. (http://hr.colostate.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/25/2021/01/benefits-summary-afap.pdf)
Explore the additional perks of working at CSU here.
For the total value of CSU benefits in addition to wages, use our compensation calculator. (http://hr.colostate.edu/total-compensation-calculator/)
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Background Check Policy Statement
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.
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.
Inspired by its land-grant heritage, Colorado State University is committed to excellence and engagement, setting the standard for public research universities in teaching, research, service and extension for the benefit of the citizens of Colorado, the United States, and the world.
Prospective Employees, click here to learn more about CSU's perks and purpose. (https://hr.colostate.edu/prospective-employees/)
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