Become a Wildlife Biologist at Wrangell-St. Elias National Park
Are you ready to bring your passion for wildlife biology to the edge of the map? The National Park Service (NPS) is hiring a high-level Wildlife Biologist (GS-12) to serve at the magnificent Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve in Copper Center, Alaska. This role is not just a job; it is a commitment to the stewardship of one of North America's most expansive and pristine natural environments.
Job Responsibilities
As a Wildlife Biologist, your duties will be as diverse as the landscape itself:
- Program Leadership: Develop and guide terrestrial wildlife management initiatives, focusing on large mammals and migratory birds.
- Field Research: Lead independent ecological studies in remote, high-stakes environments.
- Data Synthesis: Utilize modern modeling approaches to analyze complex ecological data sets.
- Scientific Communication: Author peer-reviewed monitoring protocols and journal publications, and translate complex findings into accessible presentations for the public.
- Mentorship: Supervise junior staff during rigorous technical field campaigns.
Comparison Table: Job Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Position Grade | GS-12 |
| Education | Degree in Bio-Science + 9 hrs Wildlife, 12 hrs Zoology, 9 hrs Botany |
| Residency | Must demonstrate ties to specific Alaskan regions |
| Trial Period | 2-Year Probationary/Trial Period |
| Travel | Occasional overnight travel for field/meetings |
Requirements
Success in this role requires a specific academic background. You must possess a degree in a biological science that includes 9 semester hours in wildlife subjects (e.g., mammalogy, ornithology), 12 semester hours in zoology, and 9 semester hours in botany. Additionally, candidates must show evidence of living or working within designated Alaskan areas.
Salary Overview
This position is graded at the GS-12 level, offering a salary range of $101,206 to $131,571 per year. Because Alaska has no state income tax, your take-home pay is significantly enhanced compared to other regions.
Benefits
Employees of the NPS enjoy federal benefits including health insurance, generous retirement contributions via FERS, and paid vacation time. The unique location provides an unparalleled lifestyle for those who thrive in the outdoors.
Application Tips
- Respect the Resume Limit: Strict adherence to the two-page resume limit is non-negotiable.
- Documentation is Key: Ensure you provide proof of your residency within the identified Alaskan communities.
- Formatting Matters: Use 0.5-inch margins and 10-point font. Documents that do not follow these parameters may be disqualified.
- Quantify Your Experience: Indicate full-time vs. part-time status and total hours worked for each position held.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the work environment like? A: The role involves working in all weather conditions, ranging from remote, rocky terrain to arctic environments. You will occasionally be required to travel via aircraft or helicopter.
Q: Can I apply if I live outside of Alaska? A: This position has a specific area of consideration. You must demonstrate that you have lived or worked in or near the listed Alaskan locales to be eligible for selection.
This role is for the scientist who wants to do more than read about nature—it is for the one who wants to protect it. If you have the expertise and the local connection required, apply today to lead the future of wildlife management in Wrangell-St. Elias.
Why This Wildlife Biologist Job Matters
Protect the pristine landscapes of Alaska's Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve. Lead vital research as a Wildlife Biologist in one of the most rugged and awe-inspiring environments on the planet.
Wildlife Biologist Job Overview
The National Park Service is seeking a dedicated Wildlife Biologist to spearhead terrestrial wildlife management programs in the vast wilderness of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve. This role focuses on large mammals and birds in northern ecosystems, requiring a blend of independent field research, peer-reviewed scientific writing, and public engagement. You will be instrumental in shaping conservation strategies, overseeing field operations, and utilizing cutting-edge ecological modeling to protect the integrity of Alaska's diverse wildlife populations.
Requirements for Wildlife Biologist
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Must hold a degree in biological science including at least 9 semester hours in wildlife subjects, 12 in zoology, and 9 in botany/plant science.
- Ability to complete a 2-year trial period.
- Must pass a drug test and participate in random drug screening.
- Possess a valid driver's license and submit certified driving records.
- Must be at least 18 years of age.
- Must live or work in or near the designated area of consideration.
Preferred Qualifications for Wildlife Biologist
- Demonstrated expertise in planning and evaluating complex conservation research.
- In-depth knowledge of population dynamics, habitat requirements, and ecological theory.
- Experience in scientific study design and data analysis.
- Strong oral communication skills for technical and public presentations.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal Salary
- ✓Comprehensive health and life insurance options
- ✓Retirement planning through the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS)
- ✓Paid federal holidays and leave accrual
- ✓Professional development and training opportunities
- ✓Access to state-level tax benefits (Alaska has no state income tax)
💡 How to Apply Wildlife Biologist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Wildlife Biologist Job
- Review the full vacancy announcement and gather required documentation, including transcripts and your resume.
- Create or update your USAJobs account.
- Draft a resume that strictly adheres to the two-page limit and specifies work hours per week.
- Submit your application package online via the agency portal before the closing date.
- Verify your eligibility by confirming you meet the regional residency or work requirements.
- Monitor your status via your USAJobs dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume to two single-sided pages or less; longer documents will be rejected.
- Clearly document your experience living or working near the listed Alaska communities.
- Ensure your resume format uses at least 10-point font and 0.5-inch margins.
- Use month/year formatting for all job history dates.
- If applying via mail, ensure your envelope is postmarked by the closing date.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the residency requirements for this position?
Applicants must demonstrate they have lived or worked in or near specific Alaskan communities listed in the announcement, such as Copper Center, Chitina, or Tok, to be eligible.
Is telework an option?
Telework is only authorized in this position during emergencies or natural disasters.
What happens after the two-year trial period?
The position is an excepted service appointment. Continued employment requires formal agency certification that your work advances the public interest and meets performance standards.
Job from National Park Service
The National Park Service manages 429 individual units, covering more than 85 million acres. Wrangell-St. Elias, the largest national park in the United States, represents the pinnacle of wilderness conservation. As a member of the NPS team, you will contribute to a century-long legacy of protecting our nation’s most treasured landscapes.