Become a Wildlife Refuge Manager in Beautiful Hilo, Hawaii
Are you a seasoned conservation professional looking for a leadership role that balances scientific rigor with community engagement? The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is currently hiring a Wildlife Refuge Manager to oversee critical biological programs in Hilo, Hawaii. This is a high-impact position designed for those who have a passion for habitat restoration, species protection, and effective team management.
Job Responsibilities
As a Refuge Manager, your days will be diverse and challenging. You will be responsible for:
- Biological Program Oversight: Managing habitat development, monitoring species population trends, and executing invasive species control projects.
- Strategic Coordination: Negotiating resource-use issues and fostering partnerships with federal, state, and local entities.
- Team Leadership: Supervising a multidisciplinary team and creating an environment that rewards cooperation and professional excellence.
- Visitor Services: Overseeing the six priority public uses of the National Wildlife Refuge System.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, applicants must meet several baseline criteria:
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Must hold a valid driver's license.
- Must meet specific educational requirements in zoology, wildlife management, or related biological fields.
- Must possess at least one year of specialized experience at the GS-12 grade level.
Comparison of Qualifications
| Requirement Type | Detail |
|---|---|
| Education | Degree in Zoology/Wildlife Management (Includes 9+ sem. hrs Zoology) |
| Experience | 1 Year of specialized GS-12 equivalent work |
| Citizenship | Mandatory U.S. Citizenship |
Salary and Benefits
This role offers a salary range of $111,119 to $144,457 per year. Additionally, staff members receive a 2.91% Cost of Living Allowance (COLA). Benefits include federal health insurance, retirement planning, paid leave, and uniform allowances.
Application Tips
- Watch the Clock: The 2-page resume limit is strictly enforced. Keep it concise.
- Documentation is Key: Ensure your SF-50s and transcripts are current and accurate.
- Clarity: Explicitly state your hours worked per week to ensure your specialized experience is correctly calculated.
Serving as a Wildlife Refuge Manager in Hilo is more than a job; it is a commitment to the long-term health of our environment. If you have the leadership skills and the scientific expertise to drive conservation forward, we encourage you to apply before the closing date.
Why This Wildlife Refuge Manager Job Matters
Lead the stewardship of Hawaii's unique ecosystems as a Wildlife Refuge Manager in Hilo, where your expertise in biology and leadership directly impacts conservation outcomes.
Wildlife Refuge Manager Job Overview
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is seeking a dedicated and experienced professional to serve as a Wildlife Refuge Manager in Hilo, Hawaii. In this pivotal role, you will administer comprehensive biological programs, oversee habitat restoration, manage complex resource-use negotiations, and direct a multifaceted team. This position offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of National Wildlife Refuges through strategic leadership, public outreach, and scientific excellence in one of the most biodiverse regions in the world.
Requirements for Wildlife Refuge Manager
- U.S. Citizenship or National status
- Must pass a background investigation
- Must be registered for Selective Service (if born after 12-31-1959)
- Possession of a valid driver's license
- Adherence to uniform standards (allowance provided)
- Successful completion of a 1-year probationary period
- Ability to work full-time
Preferred Qualifications for Wildlife Refuge Manager
- Degree in zoology, wildlife management, or a biology-related field
- Completion of 9 semester hours in zoology, 6 in wildlife courses, 3 in botany, and 3 in conservation biology
- Minimum of one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-12 level
- Proven experience in habitat development, population studies, and invasive species control
- Documented skill in managing federal, state, and local agency partnerships
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal health and life insurance options
- ✓Retirement savings plans (FERS)
- ✓Paid federal holidays and leave
- ✓Cost of Living Allowance (COLA) of 2.91%
- ✓Uniform allowance
- ✓Potential recruitment or relocation incentives for qualified candidates
💡 How to Apply Wildlife Refuge Manager Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Wildlife Refuge Manager Job
- Review the full vacancy announcement carefully.
- Prepare a 2-page resume clearly outlining specialized experience and hours worked.
- Gather required documentation, including transcripts, SF-50s, and performance appraisals.
- Complete the online application questionnaire.
- Submit your entire application package through the official portal before the deadline.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume strictly to 2 pages to ensure it is accepted.
- Clearly state your 'full-time' or 'part-time' hours worked to ensure proper experience credit.
- Submit your most recent performance appraisal; if unavailable, provide a written explanation.
- Proofread your application for clarity and ensure all required documents are attached before the closing date.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is education a substitute for the specialized experience required?
No, this specific position does not allow for the substitution of education for the required year of specialized experience at the GS-12 equivalent level.
What is the page limit for the resume?
The resume must not exceed 2 single-sided pages. Documents longer than 2 pages will not be accepted by the system.
Are unofficial transcripts acceptable?
Yes, unofficial transcripts are acceptable for the initial application, but official transcripts will be required prior to the start of employment if selected.
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 conservation of fish and wildlife to the management of expansive habitats, the FWS works to ensure the enduring benefit of our natural heritage for all American people.