Launch Your Career in Wildlife Management with the USDA
Are you passionate about the intersection of wildlife conservation and public safety? The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), an agency within the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), is currently accepting applications for a Biological Science Technician (Wildlife) in Fort Collins, Colorado. This position offers a unique chance to engage in hands-on wildlife management, providing critical support to preserve agricultural and natural resources.
About the Agency: APHIS
The USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service plays a crucial role in protecting the health and value of American agricultural resources. APHIS employees work both domestically and internationally to facilitate trade and manage the risks associated with wildlife. As an emergency response agency, APHIS employees are vital in maintaining the safety and health of the U.S. animal and plant populations.
Job Responsibilities
As a Biological Science Technician, you will be on the front lines of wildlife damage management. Your primary responsibilities will include:
- Executing wildlife control operations as planned by project leads.
- Identifying damage-causing species and determining the most effective mitigation strategies.
- Utilizing both lethal and non-lethal methods to minimize human-wildlife conflict.
- Maintaining detailed records of chemical usage and field operations to ensure regulatory compliance.
- Managing government-issued equipment and reporting on supply inventories.
Requirements
To be considered for this GS-05 position, applicants must satisfy the following criteria:
| Requirement Type | Details |
|---|---|
| Experience | One year of specialized experience at the GS-04 level. |
| Education | Bachelor's degree with 24+ semester hours in science (6+ in wildlife). |
| Documentation | Two-page maximum resume required. |
| Compliance | Mandatory pre-employment drug screening. |
Salary and Benefits
The position offers an annual salary range of $45,420 to $59,046. While this is a term appointment, the work provides substantial experience in federal wildlife management protocols and exposure to government regulatory standards.
Application Tips for Success
- Tailor Your Resume: Ensure your experience reflects the duties listed in the announcement. Be precise with dates and hours.
- Assessment Readiness: The USA Hire assessment is a key part of the process. Utilize the resources provided on the official OPM website to prepare.
- Submit Early: Do not wait until the deadline to upload your documents. Technical issues should be avoided by planning ahead.
This role is an excellent stepping stone for those interested in a long-term federal career in the biological sciences. If you are ready to apply your technical skills to real-world wildlife challenges in beautiful Fort Collins, ensure your application is submitted by September 8, 2026.
Why This Biological Science Technician (Wildlife) Job Matters
Protect our natural resources and public health by joining the USDA APHIS wildlife management team in beautiful Fort Collins, Colorado.
Biological Science Technician (Wildlife) Job Overview
The USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is seeking a motivated Biological Science Technician to assist in vital wildlife damage mitigation efforts. This term appointment offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the protection of agriculture, natural resources, and human health by implementing both lethal and non-lethal wildlife control strategies in a field-based environment.
Requirements for Biological Science Technician (Wildlife)
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-04 level in wildlife damage mitigation and animal control techniques.
- Or a bachelor's degree with at least 24 semester hours in scientific courses including 6 semester hours in wildlife-related studies.
- Ability to conduct basic computer operations for data entry, report writing, and record maintenance.
- Must be able to pass a drug test as a condition of employment.
- Ability to comply with federal and state regulations regarding chemical control and wildlife management.
- Submission of a resume not exceeding two pages.
Preferred Qualifications for Biological Science Technician (Wildlife)
- Experience in identifying local wildlife species and their damage patterns.
- Demonstrated ability to maintain equipment inventories and track supplies.
- Experience working in collaborative team environments to execute wildlife control plans.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary range.
- ✓Contribution to national public health and agricultural safety.
- ✓Opportunity for career growth within the USDA.
- ✓Training in specialized wildlife management protocols.
💡 How to Apply Biological Science Technician (Wildlife) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Biological Science Technician (Wildlife) Job
- Register for an account at USAJOBS.gov.
- Prepare a resume that does not exceed two pages, detailing your relevant experience and education.
- Submit your online application and complete the required occupational questionnaire.
- Monitor your email for a unique link to complete the USA Hire Competency Based Assessments.
- Submit any necessary supporting documentation, such as college transcripts or DD214 forms, through the application portal.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume explicitly mentions your hours worked per week and specific dates of employment for each position.
- Customize your resume to align directly with the major duties listed in the announcement.
- Double-check that all uploaded documents are under 5MB and in supported formats like PDF or Word.
- Complete the USA Hire assessments as soon as possible after receiving your unique access link.
- Use the 'Track this application' feature in your USAJOBS account to stay updated on your status.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the duration of this position?
This is a term appointment not to exceed 13 months, with the potential to be extended up to 4 years.
Is travel required for this role?
Yes, APHIS is an emergency response agency, and employees may be required to participate in temporary duty assignments to support emergency programs.
Are there specific education requirements?
Applicants can qualify either through one year of specialized experience or by having a bachelor's degree with relevant scientific coursework.