Embark on a Career in Conservation: Wildlife Refuge Specialist
Are you passionate about preserving the American landscape? The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) is seeking a motivated individual to fill the role of Wildlife Refuge Specialist in Randlett, Utah. This is an exceptional opportunity to serve the public by protecting the delicate ecosystems that make our country unique.
About the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is the premier agency dedicated to the conservation and enhancement of fish, wildlife, and plants. By working with partners across the public and private sectors, the FWS ensures that our natural heritage remains vibrant for future generations. As a part of the Department of the Interior, the FWS operates with integrity and scientific excellence.
Job Responsibilities
As a Wildlife Refuge Specialist, you will wear many hats. From the desk to the field, your daily duties will be diverse and challenging:
- Project Management: Independently plan and carry out habitat restoration and development projects.
- Regulatory Compliance: Interpret and apply environmental laws such as NEPA and the Endangered Species Act.
- Collaboration: Engage with stakeholders, including Tribal representatives, state agencies, and private organizations.
- Public Engagement: Develop and lead educational and interpretive programs to connect the public with wildlife.
Requirements
To qualify for this GS-09/11 position, candidates must meet specific educational and professional benchmarks.
Minimum Requirements Summary
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Education | Degree in Zoology, Wildlife Management, or related Biology field |
| Experience | At least 1 year of specialized experience at the previous grade level |
| Legal | Must be a U.S. Citizen |
| Compliance | Must hold/obtain valid driver's license and pesticide applicator's license |
Salary and Benefits
The position offers a competitive salary range of $61,722 to $97,087 annually. Beyond the paycheck, you will enjoy a robust federal benefits package, including:
- Excellent health and life insurance options.
- Retirement savings programs (FERS).
- Potential for relocation incentives.
- Work-life balance initiatives, including telework flexibility.
Application Tips for Success
The federal hiring process is precise. To improve your odds of being referred to the hiring manager:
- Tailor Your Resume: Ensure it strictly adheres to the 2-page limit and clearly outlines your specialized experience with dates and hours worked.
- Documentation: Do not forget to attach your most recent performance appraisal and official transcripts.
- Clarity: Use the Resume Builder to avoid common formatting pitfalls.
If you have a strong background in wildlife biology and a desire to serve the public, this position at the Lower Green River Complex offers a rewarding path. Protect the wild, collaborate with experts, and build a career with the Department of the Interior.
Why This Wildlife Refuge Specialist Job Matters
Protect our nation's wild places and leave a lasting legacy in the Lower Green River Complex by joining the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
Wildlife Refuge Specialist Job Overview
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is seeking a dedicated Wildlife Refuge Specialist to join our team in Randlett, Utah. In this critical role, you will contribute to the conservation, protection, and management of fish, wildlife, plants, and their habitats. You will manage complex projects, collaborate with partners across various sectors, and engage the public in wildlife-dependent recreation. This position offers a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of environmental policy, hands-on habitat restoration, and public outreach.
Requirements for Wildlife Refuge Specialist
- U.S. Citizenship or National status
- Ability to obtain and maintain a valid driver's license
- Capability to operate four-wheel all-terrain vehicles or heavy equipment
- Eligibility to obtain a pesticide applicator's license from the Utah Department of Agriculture and Food
- Completion of a one-year probationary period
- Selective Service registration for males born after December 31, 1959
- Pass an E-Verify employment check
Preferred Qualifications for Wildlife Refuge Specialist
- Academic background in zoology, wildlife management, or a relevant biological field
- Professional experience in habitat restoration and natural resource management
- Working knowledge of the Endangered Species Act (ESA) and National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA)
- Experience in data collection, validation, and analysis
- Proven history of project coordination and stakeholder engagement
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance and retirement plans
- ✓Competitive salary based on GS-09/11 pay scales
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training
- ✓Telework eligibility as approved by management
- ✓Support for federal career advancement
💡 How to Apply Wildlife Refuge Specialist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Wildlife Refuge Specialist Job
- Review the full job announcement carefully to ensure all criteria are met.
- Prepare a resume that is exactly two pages or less.
- Gather your most recent performance appraisal and relevant educational transcripts.
- Visit the USAJOBS website to start your online application.
- Complete the online questionnaire and attach all required documentation.
- Submit your application package before the closing date of November 2, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Your resume must explicitly state hours worked per week to determine specialized experience.
- Ensure your document formatting meets the strict 0.5-inch margin and 10-point font size requirements.
- Do not include personal photographs in your application package.
- Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder to ensure you include all mandatory fields.
- Double-check that your transcripts clearly display your name, school, credit hours, and GPA.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary mission of this role?
The specialist is responsible for planning and implementing biological and habitat restoration projects while ensuring compliance with federal environmental laws.
Is travel required for this position?
Yes, the role involves frequent travel by various modes of transportation to conduct field work and attend interagency meetings.
Are there specific education requirements?
Yes, you must possess a degree in a relevant biological field with specific semester hours in zoology, wildlife management, botany, and conservation biology.