Desert Tortoise Monitor

Colorado State University; Nellis Air Force Base Census-Designated Place (NV); On-site; USD 28,000 - 69,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Employee benefits

CSU benefits info

Job 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 Desert Tortoise Monitor will conduct surveys for desert tortoises and their signs as part of demographic plot surveys and may assist with other program duties if needed.

This is a part-time position based in the Las Vegas area, with field work including hiking in remote areas, carrying heavy packs, and work scheduled around

Qualifications

• Ability to work in challenging field conditions (heat, cold, carrying heavy equipment, long distances).
• Demonstrated adaptability to field work related issues (health and safety conscious and able to perform equipment troubleshooting).

Responsibilities

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

Skills

Field work stamina

Adaptability to field issues

Education

Bachelor of Science in biology/wildlife science

Job description

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 ~2months 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 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

Salary Range

$20/hr - $50/hr, commensurate with experience, education, and overall qualifications.

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. Inspired by its land‑grant heritage, Colorado State University is committed to excellence and engagement, setting the standard for public research universities in teaching, research, service and extension for the benefit of the citizens of Colorado, the United States, and the world. Prospective Employees, click here to learn more about CSU's perks and purpose. Current employees will need to apply for jobs in Workday.

Point of contact for any inquiries: Drew White‑Jacobson, Lead Desert Tortoise Biologist - [e-mail] Kate Huxster, CEMML LasVegas Operations Manager - [e-mail]