Biological and Invasive Species Technician (USFWS, Moapa Valley National Wildlife Refuge)

The Great Basin Institute • Moapa, NV

4d • Onsite

About The Position

The Research Associate Program at GBI, in cooperation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service at Moapa Valley National Wildlife Refuge, is recruiting one Invasive Species Technician. The technician will help implement the refuge’s integrated pest management plan and support other refuge management goals, working independently and with others to manage native habitats and wildlife and conserve, protect, and provide habitat for the endangered Moapa Dace.

The position is based at Moapa Valley National Wildlife Refuge in southern Nevada, approximately 50 miles north of Las Vegas. The appointment is for 52 weeks, beginning November/December 2026 or when available and after completion of a Department of the Interior background investigation. The schedule is full-time, 40 hours per week, five days a week, eight hours daily. Compensation is $16.00–$20.45 per hour, depending on experience. Housing is not provided; the selected participant must arrange their own housing.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, wildlife ecology or management, or a related field.
• Experience collecting data accurately and completely and entering data correctly into a computer system.
• Valid state-issued driver’s license and clean driving record.
• Ability to safely drive a 4WD vehicle on unimproved roads.
• Ability to self-direct and self-motivate.
• Ability to work productively, consistently, and cooperatively as part of a team.
• Strong organizational skills.
• Ability to communicate clearly and efficiently, orally and in writing, with the public, coworkers, and Technical Advisors, and to respond professionally to public inquiries about work activities.
• Ability to safely perform strenuous fieldwork involving regular physical exertion, including hiking on uneven terrain.
• Ability to work outdoors for extended periods, including in adverse hot, cold, and/or humid weather conditions.
• Ability to modify the work schedule for tasks that must occur before dawn or after dusk.
• Successful completion of a Department of the Interior Background Investigation, or submission of paperwork to U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service human resources showing that an active, fully adjudicated investigation has already been completed, before starting the position.
• Selective Service registration for individuals legally required to register.

Nice To Haves

• Experience banding birds or a strong interest in bird banding or ornithology.
• At least one year of experience in a field-based position.
• Ability to regularly lift and carry heavy items, such as equipment packs weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Familiarity with backcountry, low-impact principles.
• Plant identification skills and previous experience in invasive plant management and/or restoration ecology.
• Familiarity with Great Basin or Mojave Desert plants.
• Ability to use GPS units or FieldMaps to record and locate points and record field data.
• Familiarity with and interest in desert wetland and riparian habitat ecology and associated resource management issues.
• Familiarity with using ArcGIS to create, import, and export maps and data.

Responsibilities

• Identify, map, and treat target invasive species.
• Assist with implementing the refuge’s Integrated Pest Management System, including treatment of invasive species in riparian habitats using chemical and mechanical methods.
• Track project progress and document invasive species treatments using GIS applications.
• Capture and remove non-native aquatic organisms from the stream system.
• Lead invasive species monitoring and treatment activities with volunteers and public groups conducting service projects on the refuge.
• Assist with restoration efforts following invasive species eradication.
• Help install or construct signs and barriers to prevent degradation of sensitive habitat.
• Complete activity reporting for GBI, the Southern Nevada Restoration Team, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, including database and data-call requirements as needed.
• Assist with wildlife management activities.
• Assist maintenance staff with repairs to fleet vehicles, heavy equipment, or buildings when needed.
• Assist with refuge management activities at Pahranagat National Wildlife Refuge when applicable, including duck and migratory songbird banding.

Benefits

• Company-paid comprehensive medical insurance.
• Dental insurance, with an option to upgrade coverage.
• Vision insurance.
• $25,000 basic life and AD&D insurance at no cost.
• Paid time off.
• Paid holidays following the project partner holiday schedule.
• Eligibility for a 401(k) retirement savings plan with up to a 4% GBI match.
• Access to Pro Deals.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level