Telework-Eligible Wildlife Refuge Leader

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (DOI); Madison (SD); On-site; USD 106,000 - 138,000; Full time

Job summary

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in Madison, SD seeks a Wildlife Refuge Manager to lead staff and oversee a network of national wildlife refuges and related districts.

Apply expert knowledge to conservation challenges and support the FWS mission. You will direct operations, manage budgets, build partnerships with tribes and communities, and ensure high-quality, science-based resource management across eastern South Dakota.

Qualifications

• Must have degree in zoology or wildlife biology with relevant coursework.
• At least 1 year of specialized experience at the GS-12 level.
• Experience leading teams and managing conservation programs.
• Ability to travel up to 25%.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage refuge operations across the SD network focusing on conservation and public access.
• Oversee biological and habitat management programs, restoration, research, and monitoring.
• Develop and implement long-range land management and conservation plans.
• Build partnerships with tribes, local communities, agencies, and conservation organizations.
• Manage budgets, staffing, and administrative operations.
• Oversee facilities and infrastructure projects supporting refuge operations.
• Direct visitor services, education, interpretation, and volunteer engagement.
• Lead a multidisciplinary team toward mission objectives.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic planning

Partnership development

Supervision

Education

Degree in Zoology / Wildlife biology

Job description

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in Madison, SD seeks a Wildlife Refuge Manager to lead staff and oversee a network of national wildlife refuges and related districts.

Apply expert knowledge to conservation challenges and support the FWS mission. You will direct operations, manage budgets, build partnerships with tribes and communities, and ensure high-quality, science-based resource management across eastern South Dakota.