Leading Conservation at the Edge of the World: Wildlife Refuge Manager
Are you an experienced conservationist looking to make a massive impact? The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) is currently accepting applications for a Wildlife Refuge Manager position based at the iconic Midway Atoll National Wildlife Refuge. This role is not just a job; it is a commitment to preserving one of the most ecologically sensitive and historically significant locations in the Pacific.
Job Responsibilities
As the Refuge Manager, your duties are broad and influential. You will:
- Lead Biological Programs: Manage aquatic and land-based conservation, including habitat restoration and population studies.
- Oversee Operations: Administer budgets, procurement, and maintain critical infrastructure through FWS tracking systems.
- Stakeholder Management: Negotiate with federal agencies, tribal governments, and researchers to resolve complex conservation conflicts.
- Team Leadership: Supervise a diverse team of interns, scientists, and contractors, ensuring that work schedules and safety protocols are met.
- Permit Administration: Approve and manage Special Use Permits for research and specialized activities.
Position Comparison
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Position Grade | GS-13 |
| Location | Midway Island, Minor Outlying Islands |
| Salary Range | $106,437 - $138,370 |
| Additional Pay | 25% Post Differential |
| Travel Required | Occasional (1-2 nights/month) |
Requirements
To qualify, you must possess:
- Educational Background: A degree in zoology or wildlife management, or a combination of education and experience that includes at least 9 hours in zoology, 6 in wildlife-specific courses, 3 in botany, and 3 in conservation biology.
- Professional Experience: One full year of specialized experience at the GS-12 level involving land or wildlife management.
- Soft Skills: Problem-solving, project management, and the ability to lead in high-stress, remote environments.
Salary and Benefits
The salary for this GS-13 role is highly competitive, starting at $106,437. Furthermore, given the unique location, employees receive a 25% post differential allowance, significantly boosting total compensation. Employees also gain access to the federal benefits package, including health insurance, retirement planning, and potential relocation assistance.
Application Tips
Success in the federal hiring process requires precision. Ensure your two-page resume clearly lists 'hours worked per week' for every entry. If you fail to include this, you risk being disqualified. Always double-check your transcript uploads and ensure you have addressed the specific competencies listed in the announcement.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Do I need to be a U.S. citizen? A: Yes, U.S. citizenship is a mandatory requirement for this federal position.
Q: What is the probationary period? A: New federal employees must complete a one-year probationary period to evaluate performance and mission alignment.
Serving as the Wildlife Refuge Manager at Midway Atoll is a unique career milestone. If you have the drive to manage critical habitat and lead a team in a remote paradise, we encourage you to review the full job requirements and apply before the August 2026 deadline.
Why This Wildlife Refuge Manager Job Matters
Lead vital conservation efforts in one of the world's most remote and ecologically significant locations as a Wildlife Refuge Manager on Midway Atoll.
Wildlife Refuge Manager Job Overview
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is seeking a dedicated Wildlife Refuge Manager for the Midway Atoll National Wildlife Refuge. This critical leadership role involves overseeing biological programs, managing delicate habitats, and guiding a diverse team of professionals in an isolated, island-based field site. You will serve as the primary steward for this unique environment, coordinating with various stakeholders to ensure the protection and enhancement of aquatic and land-based wildlife resources.
Requirements for Wildlife Refuge Manager
- U.S. Citizenship is mandatory.
- Must pass a background investigation and suitability/fitness adjudication.
- Males born after 12/31/59 must be registered for the Selective Service.
- Must obtain and maintain a government travel and purchase card.
- Successful completion of a 1-year probationary period.
- Must adhere to uniform standards (allowance provided).
- Must pass E-Verify employment verification.
- Bachelor’s degree or higher in zoology, wildlife management, or a biology field including specific coursework in zoology, wildlife management, botany, and conservation biology.
- At least one full year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-12 federal level.
Preferred Qualifications for Wildlife Refuge Manager
- Demonstrated expertise in planning, administering, and evaluating complex fish and wildlife conservation programs.
- Proven history of managing large-scale restoration projects and population monitoring activities.
- Strong skills in negotiation and conflict resolution when dealing with diverse internal and external stakeholders.
- Experience supervising multi-disciplinary teams including professional and administrative staff.
- Proficiency with federal budget tracking and asset maintenance software systems.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary with step increases.
- ✓25% post differential allowance for Midway Atoll service.
- ✓Comprehensive federal health and life insurance options.
- ✓Retirement savings plans (FERS).
- ✓Uniform allowance for mandated work attire.
- ✓Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives for qualified candidates.
- ✓Professional development and training opportunities.
💡 How to Apply Wildlife Refuge Manager Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Wildlife Refuge Manager Job
- Review the full vacancy announcement carefully.
- Prepare a resume that specifically details your hours worked per week and grade/rank held for each position.
- Complete the online questionnaire and required writing assessment.
- Submit your application, including all required transcripts and supporting documents, via USAJOBS.
- Monitor your status through your USAJOBS account dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume strictly to two pages with at least 10-point font and 0.5-inch margins.
- Clearly indicate 'full-time' or '40 hours per week' for all relevant experience to ensure proper credit.
- Submit official or unofficial transcripts early to avoid disqualification due to missing education data.
- Ensure your resume explicitly maps your experience to the specialized experience requirements listed in the announcement.
- Do not include personal photographs in your application package.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the work environment like at Midway Atoll?
Midway Atoll is a remote, isolated field site with a community of 30-50 residents, including employees, volunteers, and contractors. You must be comfortable working and living in a highly contained, island-based environment.
Can I use education to substitute for the experience requirement?
No, this position requires both specific educational qualifications and a minimum of one year of specialized experience at the GS-12 level.
Is the 25% post differential guaranteed?
The post differential is subject to annual review and potential adjustment by the Office of Personnel Management (OPM).
Job from U.S. Fish And Wildlife Service
The Department of the Interior (DOI) and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service are dedicated to the stewardship of our nation's natural resources. From protecting endangered species to managing vast habitat networks, the FWS works tirelessly to ensure that wildlife and their habitats are available for future generations. Working for the Midway Atoll refuge puts you at the front lines of global conservation.