Wildlife Biologist

Colorado State University • Hurlburt Field, FL

10d • $34 - $45 • Onsite

About The Position

The Center for Environmental Management of Military Lands (CEMML) at Colorado State University is hiring a Wildlife Biologist to support natural resource management activities at Hurlburt Field, a U.S. Air Force installation in 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. They will be responsible for implementing and coordinating conservation and habitat management projects in support of Air Force environmental stewardship goals. The Wildlife Biologist will lead efforts related to species monitoring and habitat restoration, with a focus on federally listed species including the red-cockaded woodpecker, reticulated flatwoods salamander, bog frogs, and listed bat species. Responsibilities include conducting field surveys, developing management prescriptions, overseeing invasive species control, and coordinating restoration activities with partner agencies and contractors. The position also supports Integrated Natural Resources Management Plan (INRMP) updates, NEPA coordination, and permit reporting. The successful candidate will maintain and develop GIS and informational databases, produce detailed reports and maps, and provide technical recommendations for prescribed fire operations and wetland/floodplain management. This role requires strong field biology skills, experience with GIS and data management, and the ability to work collaboratively with military personnel, contractors, and conservation partners. This six‑month, non‑student hourly position offers an excellent opportunity to gain experience, with strong potential for extension and growth into a salaried role depending on available funding and project priorities. Full Consideration Date is 15 February at 11:59 pm. 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. Position Location: Hurlburt Field Hurlburt Field is a United States Air Force installation located in Okaloosa County, Florida, within the greater Eglin Air Force Base reservation. The installation spans approximately 6,700 acres and supports nearly 8,000 military personnel across multiple operational missions. Hurlburt Field’s Natural Resources Program plays a critical role in sustaining mission readiness by protecting, managing, and enhancing the installation’s diverse ecological resources. The landscape includes coastal and upland habitats, wetlands, longleaf pine ecosystems, and species-rich natural communities that support federal- and state‑listed species, migratory birds, and other sensitive wildlife. The Natural Resources team partners with state and federal agencies, conservation organizations, and land managers to ensure regulatory compliance and long‑term ecosystem resilience. Through proactive management and interdisciplinary collaboration, Hurlburt Field’s Natural Resources Program ensures that military operations can be conducted safely and effectively while conserving the ecological health and sustainability of the installation's natural landscapes. To learn more about CEMML’s contributions to land management, our mission, vision, and values, visit http://www.cemml.colostate.edu/.

Requirements

• U.S. Citizenship required
• 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 HERE.
• Must have a valid driver’s license or the ability to obtain a driver’s license by the employment start date.
• 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.

Nice To Haves

• 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.

Responsibilities

• Lead species and habitat management for red-cockaded woodpecker, reticulated flatwoods salamander, bog frogs, and listed bats
• Coordinate restoration and recovery actions with partner agencies
• Oversee contractors and field crews
• Support INRMP updates, NEPA coordination, and permit reporting
• Maintain GIS and biological databases and produce technical reports

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.
• Explore the additional perks of working at CSU here.
• For the total value of CSU benefits in addition to wages, use our compensation calculator.
• Lastly, click here for more information about why Fort Collins is consistently ranked in the top cities to live in!

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Entry Level