Become a Wildlife Refuge Manager: A Career in Conservation
Are you a dedicated professional with a passion for protecting our natural world? The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is currently recruiting for a Wildlife Refuge Manager to oversee operations within the Winona District of the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge. This GS-12 position offers a unique opportunity to lead environmental stewardship, manage diverse wildlife habitats, and engage with the community in Minnesota.
About the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) is the primary federal agency responsible for the conservation and protection of fish, wildlife, and plants. By managing the National Wildlife Refuge System, the FWS ensures that natural resources are preserved for future generations. Working with the FWS means joining a team dedicated to science-based decision-making and ethical land stewardship.
Job Responsibilities
As a Refuge Manager, you will serve as a key leader for the district. Your daily duties will include:
- Resource Management: Planning and directing complex wildlife and habitat management programs.
- Operational Leadership: Supervising multidisciplinary teams and managing administrative budgets.
- Regulatory Compliance: Ensuring all refuge activities comply with federal environmental laws and regulations.
- Public Engagement: Developing visitor services, educational programs, and recreational management plans.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, candidates must meet specific criteria:
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Education: A degree in zoology, wildlife management, or a relevant biology field, including specific semester hours in botany and conservation biology.
- Experience: One year of specialized experience at the GS-11 level or equivalent.
- Documentation: Submission of transcripts and a professional 2-page resume is mandatory.
Comparison of Qualification Paths
| Criteria | Educational Focus | Experience Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Degree Requirement | Biology/Wildlife Management | Relevant Field Required |
| Credit Hours | 9 Zoology, 6 Wildlife, 3 Botany | N/A |
| Work History | Supplemental | 1 Year Specialized (GS-11) |
Salary and Benefits
The GS-12 position offers a competitive salary ranging from $89,508 to $116,362 annually. Federal employees also enjoy a robust benefits package, including:
- Health insurance plans.
- Retirement savings via FERS.
- Generous leave policies (vacation and sick time).
- Ongoing professional development and training.
Application Tips
Applying for a federal position requires precision. Ensure your resume is exactly two pages long and includes specific hours worked per week. Always use the official USAJOBS platform to submit your documents and monitor your application status. If you are a current or former federal employee, ensure your most recent SF-50 is included to verify your tenure and grade.
This Wildlife Refuge Manager role is an exceptional opportunity to influence the health of our ecosystems. By applying your leadership skills and conservation knowledge, you will contribute directly to the FWS mission. Start your application today to join a team committed to excellence in environmental protection.
Why This Wildlife Refuge Manager Job Matters
Step into a leadership role that safeguards America's natural heritage. As a Wildlife Refuge Manager in Winona, you will tackle critical conservation challenges while shaping the future of the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge.
Wildlife Refuge Manager Job Overview
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is seeking a dedicated professional to serve as a Wildlife Refuge Manager (GS-12) in the Winona District. This leadership position is central to the stewardship of our nation's environmental resources, requiring a balance of ecological expertise, regulatory compliance, and visitor services management. You will lead diverse teams, resolve complex habitat issues, and ensure the ongoing protection of fish, wildlife, and plant species for the benefit of the American public.
Requirements for Wildlife Refuge Manager
- U.S. Citizenship or National status
- Ability to pass a background investigation and suitability/fitness adjudication
- Registration with the Selective Service (if applicable)
- Commitment to direct deposit for payroll
- Successful completion of E-Verify employment verification
- Willingness to wear a required uniform
- Completion of a 1-year probationary period
Preferred Qualifications for Wildlife Refuge Manager
- Professional experience in natural resource management or wildlife biology
- Proven track record in staff supervision and team leadership
- Experience in developing and executing habitat and wildlife management plans
- Deep understanding of federal environmental laws and regulatory compliance
- Demonstrated skill in budget management and administrative reporting
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options
- ✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS)
- ✓Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays
- ✓Uniform allowance
- ✓Telework opportunities where applicable
- ✓Structured career development and federal training programs
💡 How to Apply Wildlife Refuge Manager Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Wildlife Refuge Manager Job
- Create or update your profile on USAJOBS.
- Review the full vacancy announcement thoroughly for document requirements.
- Draft a concise, 2-page resume specifically formatted to highlight your specialized experience and hours worked per week.
- Gather necessary documentation, including transcripts and SF-50 forms for current/former federal employees.
- Complete the online application questionnaire and upload all supporting documents.
- Submit your application before 11:59 PM ET on the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume strictly adheres to the 2-page limit and font/margin requirements.
- Be explicit about your work schedule (e.g., '40 hours per week') to ensure your specialized experience is properly credited.
- Include your most recent performance appraisal; if unavailable, provide a written explanation.
- Use the resume builder tool on USAJOBS to ensure all required data points are captured.
- Double-check your eligibility documents, such as DD-214 or SF-50s, to prevent disqualification.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute my education for the experience requirement?
No, this position requires specific specialized experience as defined in the announcement. Education is a mandatory basic requirement but cannot replace the need for professional experience at the GS-12 level.
What happens if my resume exceeds the 2-page limit?
Your application will be deemed ineligible. Strict adherence to the 2-page limit is required for this announcement.
Is a security clearance required for this role?
While a formal security clearance is not required, the position is designated as 'Moderate Risk' and involves suitability and fitness adjudication.
What is the primary focus of the Winona District?
The district focuses on the Upper Mississippi River, managing complex ecological and visitor-use issues.
Are there any specific formatting rules for the resume?
Yes, it must be exactly two pages, with a 10-point minimum font size and 0.5-inch margins.