Desert Tortoise Monitor

Colorado State UniversityLas Vegas, NV
$20 - $50Onsite

About The Position

The Center for Environmental Management of Military Lands (CEMML) at Colorado State University is hiring a Desert Tortoise Monitor to join the CEMML Las Vegas team. The CEMML Las Vegas team provides natural resource support for Nellis Air Force Base, the Nevada Test and Training Range, and Creech Air Force Base. The Desert Tortoise Monitor will conduct surveys for desert tortoises and their associated signs as part of demographic plot surveys and may assist with other program duties if needed. This is a part-time position and will not exceed 4 long weekends/ 12 days of work per year. Field work will consist of hiking in remote areas for significant distances, while carrying a heavy pack (up to 30 lbs.) in adverse weather conditions. Surveys will occur when installation/range access allows (Friday – Monday, particularly Columbus Day and Memorial Day weekends), during desert tortoise active season (April – May, September – October). Due to military training requirements, survey schedules may change or be canceled on short notice. Employees will be scheduled for field work ~2 months in advance. Personnel are to report to the CEMML Las Vegas Office when scheduled. Transportation to and from the work site will be provided.

Requirements

  • Bachelor of Science degree in biology, wildlife science (or similar subject)
  • Ability to work in challenging field conditions (heat, cold, carrying heavy equipment, ability to walk long distances, etc.)
  • Demonstrated adaptability to field work related issues (health and safety conscious and able to perform equipment troubleshooting)
  • Must have a valid driver’s license or the ability to obtain a driver’s license by the employment start date
  • Must be eligible to work in the United States by proposed start date. CEMML will not provide visa sponsorship for this position.

Nice To Haves

  • Prior experience with Mojave Desert Tortoises or other chelonian species
  • Experience and training necessary to be approved as a desert tortoise Authorized Biologist by the US Fish and Wildlife Service.
  • Previous experience working in desert ecosystems
  • Previous experience supporting natural resource projects on military installations
  • Previous experience working with ESA Threatened or Endangered listed species

Responsibilities

  • Conduct surveys for desert tortoises and their associated signs as part of demographic plot surveys.
  • May assist with other program duties if needed.

Benefits

  • Robust benefits package
  • Collaborative atmosphere
  • Focus on work-life balance
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