Launch Your Career as a Natural Resources Specialist
Are you looking for a career that blends technical expertise with outdoor stewardship? The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) is hiring a Natural Resources Specialist to help manage the thriving ecosystem of Wappapello Lake. This is more than just a job; it is an opportunity to protect vital flood-control infrastructure and preserve the natural heritage of Missouri.
Job Responsibilities
As a Natural Resources Specialist, your day-to-day work will be multifaceted:
- Forestry Management: Develop and implement plans for reforestation, timber stand improvement, and resource inventory.
- Wildlife Conservation: Manage fish and wildlife habitats to ensure long-term ecological balance.
- Administrative Oversight: Establish work priorities and manage procurement for operational equipment.
- Resource Protection: Monitor shoreline boundaries and ensure proper soil conservation practices are followed.
- Cultural Resources: Maintain inventories and protection plans for historical sites within the project area.
Qualifications
To be considered for this position, you must meet the following criteria:
- Education: A bachelor's degree in biological sciences, agriculture, natural resource management, or a related field.
- Experience: At least one year of specialized experience performing tasks such as long-range resource planning, operational procedures for environmental situations, or forestry/wildlife management.
Comparison of Requirements
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | Must be a U.S. Citizen |
| Education | Bachelor's Degree or higher in relevant science/resource field |
| Experience | 1 Year of specialized experience equivalent to GS-04 level |
| Assessment | Completion of USA Hire Assessments required |
Salary and Benefits
The salary range for this position is $40,736 to $97,087 annually, inclusive of locality pay. Beyond the salary, federal employees enjoy:
- Robust health, dental, and vision insurance options.
- Competitive retirement plans including the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- Paid annual leave, sick leave, and federal holidays.
Application Tips
- Resume Precision: Keep your resume under two pages. Focus on high-impact results rather than lists of tasks.
- Documentation: Ensure all transcripts and eligibility proof (e.g., military status documents) are attached before submitting.
- Assessments: If invited to take the USA Hire Assessments, do so immediately. You typically have 48 hours to complete them.
If you have a passion for natural resource management and want to play a key role in an agency that values integrity, honesty, and professional excellence, this position is for you. Submit your application by the August 4, 2026, deadline to secure your chance to join the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers team at Wappapello Lake.
Why This Natural Resources Specialist Job Matters
Protect and preserve the natural beauty of Wappapello Lake while engineering a greener future with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
Natural Resources Specialist Job Overview
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is seeking a dedicated Natural Resources Specialist to join the St. Louis District at the Wappapello Lake Project Office. This position offers a unique opportunity to lead environmental stewardship, manage forestry and wildlife programs, and support recreation management at one of Missouri's most vital water resource sites. You will work under general supervision to implement long and short-range management plans that protect our nation’s land and water resources.
Requirements for Natural Resources Specialist
- U.S. Citizenship is required.
- Must be able to pass a drug test.
- Must complete a one-year probationary period.
- Must be registered with the Selective Service (for male applicants born after Dec 31, 1959).
- Bachelor's degree in biological sciences, agriculture, natural resource management, chemistry, or related field.
- One year of specialized experience in forestry, fish and wildlife management, or multi-use lake project planning.
- Ability to provide professional transcripts if using education to qualify.
- Resume must be two pages or less.
Preferred Qualifications for Natural Resources Specialist
- Demonstrated competency in interpersonal communication and stakeholder collaboration.
- Strong reading comprehension skills for technical policies and directives.
- Experience with silvicultural practices, timber inventory, and soil conservation.
- Ability to work independently on assigned project objectives.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance programs.
- ✓Generous paid annual leave and sick leave.
- ✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training.
- ✓Thrift Savings Plan (401k-style investment options).
💡 How to Apply Natural Resources Specialist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Natural Resources Specialist Job
- Review the full vacancy announcement details.
- Ensure your resume is limited to two pages.
- Click the online application link to submit your profile.
- Complete the mandatory application questionnaire.
- Attach all required documentation, including transcripts.
- Complete the USA Hire Assessment within 48 hours of announcement closure if prompted.
💡 General Tips
- Use plain language in your resume and avoid industry jargon.
- Include specific start and end dates (month/year) for all relevant experience.
- Ensure your resume directly maps to the specialized experience described in the posting.
- Check your application status frequently via your USAJOBS account.
- Submit your package well before the 11:59 PM ET deadline on August 4, 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position eligible for remote work?
No, this position is based in Wappapello, MO and is only eligible for situational telework, not full-time remote or full-time telework.
What is the pay band for this position?
This is an NH-02 pay banded position, which encompasses the GS-05 through GS-11 grade levels under the General Schedule system.
What happens if I forget to submit my transcripts?
Failure to submit required transcripts when using education to meet eligibility requirements will result in an ineligible rating.
What is the work environment like?
You will be based in Wappapello, MO, working under the operations division. You will work with a team of professionals dedicated to maintaining the health of the lake and surrounding forestry.
Can I telework?
The position allows for situational telework only, not full-time remote or regular telework schedules.
Job from U.S. Army Corps Of Engineers
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is a premier federal agency responsible for engineering the nation's future. From managing water resources and restoring ecosystems to supporting the armed forces, USACE provides critical services that protect our communities and promote environmental sustainability. Working at the Wappapello Lake Project Office means contributing to a mission that has been vital since 1941, protecting thousands of acres of farmland and timberland while providing top-tier recreational opportunities to the public.