FUL-Wildlife Refuge Specialist

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service•Cambridge, MD

2d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Wildlife Refuge Specialist serves with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service at the Chesapeake Marshlands Complex in Cambridge, Maryland, supporting the Refuge Manager in overseeing refuge operations and programs. The work covers wildlife biology, ecology, habitat management, natural resource conservation, visitor services, public outreach and education, volunteer programs, accessibility initiatives, and compliance with environmental laws, regulations, and policies. Duties are developmental when the position is filled below the full performance level. The position is suitable for telework, which may be permitted with supervisor approval. The role supports habitat management and restoration, invasive species control, wildlife surveys and biological monitoring, public-use and outreach programs, refuge planning and reporting, facilities and equipment needs, business operations, environmental documentation, and coordination with partner organizations. The work is performed in both office and outdoor settings and includes field work and frequent travel. The position requires a relevant education background and specialized experience, graduate education, or a qualifying combination for the GS-09 level. Applicants must reside within 75 miles of Cambridge, Maryland, and provide proof of residency.

Requirements

Must be a U.S. Citizen or National.
Must pass a background investigation and receive favorable adjudication.
Males born after December 31, 1959, must be registered for Selective Service.
Must participate in Direct Deposit and pass E-Verify employment verification.
Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license throughout employment.
Must wear a uniform and comply with uniform standards; a uniform allowance is provided.
May be required to complete training and obtain and maintain a government charge card with travel and/or purchase authority.
Must serve a one-year probationary period, during which fitness and continued employment are evaluated; continued employment requires written certification by the agency.
Must meet the mandatory basic education requirement through a degree or equivalent combination of education and experience in zoology, wildlife management, or an appropriate biology field, including specified coursework: at least 9 semester hours in zoology, 6 in wildlife courses, 3 in botany, and 3 in conservation biology.
For GS-09 qualification, must have at least one year of specialized experience equivalent to GS-07, or qualifying graduate education, or a qualifying combination of graduate education and experience.
Specialized experience must include assisting with wildlife or habitat field activities; supporting reviews of resource or land-use proposals; helping deliver public-facing programs; and performing program or operational support tasks.
Applicants claiming education must submit transcripts. Foreign education must be evaluated as equivalent to U.S. education.
Applicants must meet applicable time-in-grade requirements.
Applicants must reside within the defined local commuting area, within 75 miles of Cambridge, Maryland, and provide proof of residency.
Must be able to perform physical activities including walking on wet, rough, uneven, or marshy surfaces; bending, crouching, stooping, stretching, or reaching; and recurring lifting of items weighing up to 50 pounds.
Must have above-average agility and dexterity.
Must conduct work safely, including in outdoor conditions with biting insects and possible proximity to large animals; may need to carry a firearm for personal protection from wildlife.
Must comply with applicable Department of the Interior ethics restrictions on claims or rights in federal lands.

Responsibilities

Support planning and implementation of refuge habitat management and restoration actions, invasive species control, wildlife surveys, and biological monitoring.
Contribute to planning and delivery of public-use and outreach programs, including interpretive and educational activities, hunt and fish programs, and other wildlife-dependent recreation.
Respond to routine public inquiries and help develop informational materials, including brochures and online content.
Assist with coordination of facility and infrastructure projects, fleet and heavy equipment needs, and completion of station plans and reports.
Support business operations by helping prepare annual work plans and project schedules, managing agreements or contracts, and maintaining records.
Participate in preparing conservation plans and required environmental and regulatory documentation, including NEPA documentation and Environmental Assessments, ESA Section 7 consultations, and archeological clearances.
Coordinate and interact with federal, state, and local agencies, Tribal representatives, private organizations, and other partners to strengthen support for refuge objectives.
Conduct field work and attend meetings, including through frequent travel by surface and air transportation.
Perform duties safely to avoid endangering oneself, coworkers, or property.