Become a Wildlife Refuge Manager with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Are you a seasoned professional in natural resource management with a heart for conservation? The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) is seeking an experienced leader to fill the role of Wildlife Refuge Manager at the Willapa National Wildlife Refuge in Ilwaco, Washington. This high-level position offers the unique opportunity to oversee vital habitat restoration, manage complex agency operations, and influence the future of our nation's environmental policies.
Job Responsibilities
As the Refuge Manager, your duties will be multifaceted, balancing biological conservation with administrative leadership. You will:
- Develop Long-Range Plans: Formulate policies and strategies for habitat restoration and aquatic conservation.
- Strategic Diplomacy: Negotiate with federal, state, and tribal officials to resolve controversial environmental issues.
- Team Leadership: Supervise a diverse group of technical and administrative professionals.
- Resource Management: Ensure that public use, law enforcement, and facility maintenance programs meet agency standards.
Requirements
To qualify for this GS-13 position, candidates must demonstrate a high level of expertise. Requirements include:
- Educational Foundation: A degree in zoology, wildlife management, or related fields with required coursework in botany and conservation biology.
- Specialized Experience: At least one year of experience equivalent to the GS-12 level in the federal sector.
- Documentation: You must provide official transcripts and proof of specialized experience, including hours worked per week.
Salary and Benefits Comparison
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | $119,630 – $155,521 |
| Location | Ilwaco, Washington |
| Job Series | 0485 (Wildlife Refuge Management) |
| Grade Level | GS-13 |
Benefits
The federal government offers a robust benefits package, including:
- Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical and life insurance.
- Retirement: Access to the Federal Employees Retirement System and the Thrift Savings Plan.
- Leave: Generous paid time off, including federal holidays.
- Professional Growth: Opportunities for leadership development and agency-wide collaboration.
Application Tips
- Read the Announcement: Ensure you meet every deadline.
- Optimize Your Resume: Keep it to exactly two pages and clearly list hours worked per week.
- Include Supporting Docs: Do not forget your performance appraisals and transcripts.
Serving as a Wildlife Refuge Manager is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the environment and the public. If you meet the qualifications and are ready for this challenging leadership role, submit your application before September 10, 2026.
Why This Wildlife Refuge Manager Job Matters
Lead the future of conservation at the stunning Willapa National Wildlife Refuge in Washington.
Wildlife Refuge Manager Job Overview
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is seeking a dedicated and experienced professional to serve as the Wildlife Refuge Manager in Ilwaco, Washington. In this pivotal leadership role, you will be responsible for the strategic administration and preservation of one of the nation’s natural treasures. You will manage complex biological programs, lead diverse teams, and act as a key liaison with government, tribal, and community partners to ensure the long-term health and vitality of our refuge systems.
Requirements for Wildlife Refuge Manager
- U.S. Citizenship is mandatory.
- Completion of a background investigation and suitability adjudication.
- Registration with the Selective Service for males born after December 31, 1959.
- Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license.
- Must comply with mandatory uniform standards.
- Completion of a 1-year probationary period.
- Bachelor's degree or higher in zoology, wildlife management, or a related field with specific semester hour requirements in zoology, botany, and conservation biology.
- Minimum of one year of specialized experience at the GS-12 level or equivalent.
Preferred Qualifications for Wildlife Refuge Manager
- Demonstrated experience in wildlife biology and landscape ecology.
- Expertise in negotiating complex resource use issues with diverse stakeholders.
- Proven ability to manage facility maintenance programs and fiscal operations.
- Strong diplomatic skills in building partnerships across federal, state, and local agencies.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary and advancement opportunities
- ✓Relocation assistance available
- ✓Uniform allowance provided
- ✓Comprehensive health and life insurance options
- ✓Federal retirement benefits including FERS and Thrift Savings Plan (TSP)
- ✓Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays
- ✓Work-life balance through potential telework opportunities
💡 How to Apply Wildlife Refuge Manager Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Wildlife Refuge Manager Job
- Review the full job announcement carefully on USAJobs.
- Prepare a resume that does not exceed 2 pages, including specific hours worked per week.
- Gather your most recent performance appraisal and relevant college transcripts.
- Complete the online questionnaire via the provided application portal.
- Submit your entire application package by 11:59 PM (ET) on September 10, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume strictly adheres to the 2-page limit and font size requirements.
- Clearly label your hours per week for all previous positions to ensure proper credit.
- Submit your most recent performance appraisal; if unavailable, provide a written statement explaining why.
- Do not submit award-based SF-50s; only focus on documentation that reflects tenure and grade.
- Use the USAJobs Resume Builder for a professionally formatted document.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute my education for the experience requirement?
No, this position requires a specific combination of both a qualifying degree and specialized experience at the GS-12 level.
Is relocation assistance provided?
Yes, relocation expenses will be paid, though discretionary entitlements are not included.
What makes a candidate 'well-qualified'?
Successful candidates excel in diplomacy, wildlife management, and fiscal administration. You must clearly demonstrate your ability to solve complex problems in your application.
Can I work remotely?
While some telework is possible, this role requires on-site management of the Willapa National Wildlife Refuge.
Job from U.S. Fish And Wildlife Service
The Department of the Interior and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service are dedicated to protecting the nation's natural resources. From the coastal regions of the Pacific Northwest to the vast heartland of America, the FWS works tirelessly to conserve fish, wildlife, and plants for the benefit of all citizens. Joining this team means contributing to a legacy of stewardship and scientific excellence.