For full consideration, apply by: 12/28/25
Click here for application instructions (Open Pool):
Annual Salary Range: $60,000 - $74,000
Position Summary:
The Center for Environmental Management of Military Lands (CEMML) at Colorado State University is
hiring a Wildlife Biologist (Administrative professional/Individual Contributor III) to support Hurlburt
Field, an Air Force installation in Okaloosa County, Florida. This position will serve as a liaison between
the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and the natural resources program at Hurlburt Field.
The Wildlife Biologist will lead efforts to implement and coordinate conservation and habitat
management projects that support Air Force environmental stewardship goals, with a focus on federally
listed species and sensitive habitats.
The Wildlife Biologist will work in coordination with the Air Force Natural Resources Manager and lead
efforts related to species monitoring and habitat restoration, with a focus on federally listed species
specific to Hurlburt Field. Key responsibilities include developing and coordinating field surveys,
developing management prescriptions, overseeing invasive species control, and coordinating restoration
activities with partner agencies and contractors, providing oversight of field crews and ensuring that
restoration objectives are achieved efficiently and in accordance with environmental regulations. The
Wildlife Biologist is expected to exercise sound judgment and scientific rigor in all aspects of project
planning and execution.
This position also supports Integrated Natural Resources Management Plan (INRMP) updates, NEPA
coordination, and permit reporting. These roles require strong field biology skills, experience with GIS
and data management, and the ability to work collaboratively with military personnel, contractors, and
conservation partners.
This position involves a high degree of autonomy and technical expertise. The Wildlife Biologist will
independently develop management prescriptions and restoration actions that directly impact
conservation outcomes and regulatory compliance at Hurlburt Field. They will independently develop
management prescriptions and restoration actions for federally listed species, including determining
survey protocols, evaluating habitat suitability, and recommending prescribed fire operations. The
position involves leading restoration activities in collaboration with partner agencies and contractors,
including oversight of field crews and ensuring that restoration goals are met effectively and in
compliance with regulatory standards. Decisions are made with a high degree of autonomy and
technical expertise, and they directly impact the conservation outcomes and regulatory compliance of
natural resource programs at Hurlburt Field.
Must be able to work in-person at Hurlburt Field, FL. Relocation and housing NOT provided.
This is a six-month position to start, with the potential for extension based on available funding and project needs.
Duties/Responsibilities include:
• Lead species and habitat monitoring and management for red-cockaded woodpecker, reticulated flatwoods salamander, bog frogs, and listed bats
• Coordinate restoration and recovery actions with partner agencies
• Conduct invasive species surveys and recommend treatment areas
• Oversee contractors and field crews
• Support INRMP updates, NEPA coordination, and permit reporting
• Develop, update, and maintain biological and GIS databases
• Produce GIS layers, metadata, maps, and technical reports consistent with USAF standards
• Maintain project documentation including survey protocols, findings, and recommendation
• Conduct biannual briefings for Hurlburt Field and Air Force Civil Engineer Center natural resource program staff
• Prepare and submit annual reports summarizing project results and conclusions
Minimum Requirements
• Bachelor’s degree in wildlife biology, ecology, natural resources, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of professional experience in wildlife biology or natural resource management.
Experience working in southeastern U.S. ecosystems, especially wetland and flatwoods habitats
• Professional experience conducting field surveys for federally listed species found at Hurlburt Field
such as red-cockaded woodpecker, reticulated flatwoods salamander, bog frogs, and federally listed bat
species.
• Proficiency with GIS software (e.g., ArcGIS) and database management.
• Ability to work independently in remote field conditions and coordinate with diverse stakeholders.
• Must have a valid driver’s license or the ability to obtain a driver’s license by the employment start date. The successful candidate must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. by the proposed start date; CEMML will not provide visa sponsorship for this position.
• Must be able to pass the DoD federal background check to obtain a Common Access Card (CAC). Additional information regarding eligibility and qualification requirements can be found
https://www.nationalsecuritylawfirm.com/navigating-cac-card-issues
Preferred Requirements
• Master’s degree in wildlife biology, ecology, or related field.
• Experience working with USFWS, on military installations, or with other federal land management agencies.
• Experience complying with federal environmental regulations (e.g., ESA, NEPA, Sikes Act).
• Experience with prescribed fire planning or implementation.
• Demonstrated ability to manage contractors and restoration crews.
• Author or Co-author of relevant publications on species or habitats found in the region
About CEMML
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 (DoD) 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 that sustain
our resources for future generations.
To learn more about CEMML’s contributions to land management, our mission, vision, and values, visit
http://www.cemml.colostate.edu/
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. To learn more, please visit:
• https://hr.colostate.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/25/2021/01/benefits-summary-afap.pdf
• https://hr.colostate.edu/prospective-employees/our-perks/
• https://hr.colostate.edu/total-compensation-calculator/
• https://hr.colostate.edu/prospective-employees/our-community/
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.
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.