Job Description

Position Summary

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.

Full Consideration Date:

Applications will be accepted until positions are filled.

Organization: 

The Center for Environmental Management of Military Lands (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 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 to sustain our resources for future generations. To learn more about CEMML’s contributions to land management and our mission, vision, and values, please visit http://www.cemml.colostate.edu/. 

Conditions of Employment:

• 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 eligible to work in the United States by proposed start date. CEMML will not provide visa sponsorship for this position.  

• Colorado State University conducts background checks on all final candidates. 

Supervision:

This position will not have supervisory duties.

Minimum Qualifications:

• 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) 

Preferred Qualifications:

• 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

Applicant Instructions: 
To apply for this position please submit the following: 

• A resume/CV

• A cover letter highlighting your experience related to desert tortoise handling/monitoring/surveying, experience with desert ecosystem work, any experience working within the Department of Defense, how you meet the Minimum and Preferred Qualifications, why you are applying for the position, and confirmation that you understand this is a part-time position and it will not exceed 4 long weekends/ 12 days of work per year.

Point of contact for any inquiries: 

• Drew White-Jacobson, Lead Desert Tortoise Biologist - [email protected]

• Kate Huxster, CEMML Las Vegas Operations Manager - [email protected]

Salary Range

Required Application Documents

To apply, please upload the following applicant documents. Ensure your materials fully address the required and preferred job qualifications of the position. Please note, applicants may redact information from their application materials that identifies their age, date of birth, or dates of attendance at or graduation from an educational institution.

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.

• 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!

Background Check Policy Statement

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.

EEO

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.