Become a Wildlife Refuge Manager in Yigo, Guam
Are you a seasoned conservation professional looking to make a global impact? The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) is seeking a visionary leader to serve as the Wildlife Refuge Manager for the Guam National Wildlife Refuge. This high-level position offers the unique opportunity to steward island ecosystems while leading a professional team in a vibrant Pacific setting.
Job Responsibilities
As the Refuge Manager, your impact will be broad and significant. Key duties include:
- Habitat Conservation: Overseeing land, wildlife, and aquatic conservation projects.
- Strategic Leadership: Formulating long-range management plans and policies.
- Team Management: Supervising a multidisciplinary team of professionals and support staff.
- Partnerships: Engaging with federal, state, local, and indigenous groups to advance conservation.
- Public Relations: Conducting presentations and facility tours to educate the public on USFWS objectives.
Requirements
Candidates must meet stringent federal criteria, including:
- Educational Background: A degree in zoology, wildlife management, or biology with specific credit hours in wildlife-related courses.
- Specialized Experience: At least one year of experience equivalent to the GS-12 level.
- Physical Fitness: Ability to lift 50 lbs and work in rugged, tropical terrain.
- Regulatory Compliance: U.S. citizenship, background check eligibility, and valid driver’s license.
Comparison of Key Expectations
| Expectation | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Experience Level | GS-12 Equivalent |
| Education | Required (Zoology/Wildlife Mgmt) |
| Physicality | High (Rugged Terrain) |
| Supervision | Required (Multidisciplinary Team) |
Salary and Benefits
- Salary Range: $106,437 – $138,370 per year.
- COLA: An 11.88% Cost of Living Allowance is provided for the Guam location.
- Comprehensive Benefits: Includes health insurance, retirement planning (TSP), and generous leave accrual.
Application Tips
To succeed in the competitive selection process, ensure your 2-page resume clearly defines your specialized experience. Avoid over-generalizing; provide specific examples of your leadership in conservation and project management. Ensure all required documents—especially your most recent performance appraisal and relevant SF-50s—are uploaded before the closing date.
This role is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the preservation of our nation's natural heritage. If you are ready to lead in the Pacific and possess the qualifications required, apply today to join the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
Why This Wildlife Refuge Manager Job Matters
Lead the conservation of our nation's precious island ecosystems as a Wildlife Refuge Manager in beautiful Yigo, Guam.
Wildlife Refuge Manager Job Overview
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is seeking a dedicated Wildlife Refuge Manager to provide executive-level leadership at the Guam National Wildlife Refuge. This role is pivotal in balancing habitat protection, wildlife conservation, and public land management. You will direct operations, lead multidisciplinary teams, and serve as a key ambassador for conservation efforts in the Pacific. This position is located in Yigo, Guam, and includes a 11.88% Cost of Living Allowance (COLA) on top of a competitive base salary.
Requirements for Wildlife Refuge Manager
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Must possess a valid driver's license.
- Ability to pass a background investigation for moderate risk/noncritical-sensitive position.
- Male applicants born after 12/31/1959 must be registered for Selective Service.
- Must be able to perform physically demanding work, including lifting up to 50 lbs and navigating rugged terrain.
- Commitment to wearing a designated uniform.
- Must meet specialized experience requirements equivalent to the GS-12 level.
- Education requirements: Degree in zoology, wildlife management, or biological sciences with specific credit hour minimums.
Preferred Qualifications for Wildlife Refuge Manager
- Proven experience in developing long-range management plans.
- Expertise in managing and operating complex wildlife or aquatic conservation programs.
- Demonstrated ability to build strategic partnerships with government entities, NGOs, and community groups.
- Strong leadership skills in managing multifaceted professional and technical teams.
- Exceptional communication skills for public representation and training facilitation.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Competitive federal salary with 11.88% COLA for Guam location.
- âś“Comprehensive health and life insurance options.
- âś“Federal retirement benefits and Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- âś“Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
- âś“Telework opportunities available upon supervisor approval.
- âś“Relocation assistance is discretionary.
- âś“Uniform allowance provided.
đź’ˇ How to Apply Wildlife Refuge Manager Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Wildlife Refuge Manager Job
- Read the full job announcement carefully on USAJobs.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly 2 pages or less, including hours worked per week.
- Gather required documents: transcripts, performance appraisals, and relevant SF-50 forms.
- Complete the online application questionnaire and required assessments.
- Submit your full application package before the closing date of 08/13/2026.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Ensure your resume includes month/year dates and clearly states 'full-time' or 'part-time' hours per week for every position.
- Do not exceed the 2-page limit; extra content or 'disguised' extensions will result in disqualification.
- Use your most recent performance appraisal; if unavailable, provide a written statement explaining why.
- Double-check your eligibility and include all necessary SF-50s if you are a current or former federal employee.
- Highlight your experience in partnering and project management to match the specific competencies requested.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the work environment like in Yigo, Guam?
The position involves both indoor administrative work and outdoor field duties. You will face rugged terrain, extreme heat, and local environmental conditions, requiring physical stamina.
Can I submit more than one resume?
You may submit a resume, but please note that only your latest submission will be reviewed. Ensure it is under 2 pages.
Is relocation assistance provided?
Relocation benefits are authorized as a discretionary benefit.
Is this role eligible for telework?
*A: Yes, telework may be allowed pending supervisory approval.*
Is housing provided?
*A: No, but relocation assistance is discretionary.*
Job from U.S. Fish And Wildlife Service
The Department of the Interior (DOI) and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service are tasked with the critical mission of conserving, protecting, and enhancing fish, wildlife, plants, and their habitats. By joining the USFWS, you contribute to a legacy of environmental stewardship that supports biodiversity for the benefit of all Americans.