Engineering Equipment Operator: A Critical Role in Wildlife Conservation

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) is currently accepting applications for seasonal Engineering Equipment Operator positions at the Cameron Prairie National Wildlife Refuge in Bell City, Louisiana. This role is essential for the ongoing protection and management of our nation’s wildlife habitats. If you have a passion for land management and the skills to operate heavy machinery, this position offers a unique way to contribute to the environment.

Job Responsibilities

As an Engineering Equipment Operator, you will perform a variety of duties aimed at keeping the refuge infrastructure operational:

Heavy Machinery Operation: Utilizing dozers, excavators, skid steers, and graders for levee repair, ditch cleaning, and road maintenance.
Equipment Maintenance: Diagnosing and fixing mechanical issues in agricultural and construction equipment.
Structural Maintenance: Performing building repairs, including plumbing, electrical, and carpentry tasks.
Habitat Management: Installing fences, gates, and water control structures to protect refuge boundaries.

Requirements

To be considered for this role, candidates must meet the following federal requirements:

Citizenship: You must be a U.S. Citizen or National.
License: A valid Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) is mandatory.
Residency: Must reside within 75 miles of the Bell City, LA duty station.
Background: Must pass a background check and drug/alcohol screening.

Salary Overview

This position is compensated at a competitive hourly rate based on federal wage scales:

Position	Hourly Rate Range
Engineering Equipment Operator	$33.53 - $39.11

Benefits

Employees in this role receive a uniform allowance and gain valuable experience in high-level land management and federal facility operations.

Application Tips

Keep your resume to exactly two pages.
Ensure your proof of residency is up-to-date and clearly attached.
Verify your CDL class before applying.

If you have the mechanical skills and the drive to protect our natural resources, this role in Bell City offers a meaningful opportunity to make a tangible impact. Apply before November 10, 2026, to ensure your materials are reviewed.

Why This Engineering Equipment Operator (Seasonal) (Ful) Job Matters

Power the conservation efforts of the Cameron Prairie National Wildlife Refuge as a key member of our field operations team. We are looking for skilled equipment operators to keep our land management and facilities running at peak performance.

Engineering Equipment Operator (Seasonal) (Ful) Job Overview

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is seeking two temporary Engineering Equipment Operators to support essential land management and infrastructure maintenance at the Cameron Prairie National Wildlife Refuge in Bell City, Louisiana. This seasonal role involves operating heavy machinery to support habitat restoration, levee maintenance, and general facility upkeep. If you possess a valid Commercial Driver's License (CDL) and live within 75 miles of the duty station, this is your chance to contribute to the preservation of America's natural heritage.

Requirements for Engineering Equipment Operator (Seasonal) (Ful)

Must be a U.S. Citizen or National.
Must possess and maintain a valid Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with Class A endorsement.
Must be at least 18 years of age.
Must reside within 75 miles of 1428 Highway 27, Bell City, LA 70630.
Must be willing to undergo background investigation and drug/alcohol testing.
Must maintain a neat appearance in accordance with uniform standards.
Must be registered for Selective Service (for males born after 12-31-59).

Preferred Qualifications for Engineering Equipment Operator (Seasonal) (Ful)

Proven expertise in operating bulldozers, excavators, and skid steers.
Mechanical proficiency in repairing heavy agricultural and earthmoving equipment.
Skilled in general facility maintenance including carpentry, welding, and plumbing.
Experience in wildlife refuge or land management operations.
Ability to serve as a collateral-duty firefighter.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Uniform allowance provided
✓Opportunity to contribute to national conservation
✓Training in federal land management operations
✓Comprehensive federal benefits eligibility based on appointment duration

💡 How to Apply Engineering Equipment Operator (Seasonal) (Ful) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Engineering Equipment Operator (Seasonal) (Ful) Job

Prepare a resume that does not exceed two single-sided pages.
Gather proof of residence within the 75-mile commuting area.
Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
Submit your application and all required documents by November 10, 2026.
Monitor your status via the USAJOBS portal.

💡 General Tips

Your resume must not exceed two pages; longer documents will be rejected.
Use a minimum font size of 10-point and at least 0.5-inch margins.
Do not include photographs in any part of your application package.
Ensure your proof of residency (e.g., utility bill, lease) is clearly legible.
Address your ability to work with minimal supervision clearly in your resume.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the residency requirement?

You must currently reside within a 75-mile radius of 1428 Highway 27, Bell City, LA. Proof of this residence is required.

Can I submit a longer resume if I have more experience?

No, the resume must strictly adhere to a two-page limit. Extra pages will cause your application to be disqualified.

Is a CDL required?

Yes, you must possess and maintain a valid Class A Commercial Driver's License.

What if my resume is three pages long?

Your application will be automatically rejected. Ensure your resume is no more than two pages.

Is there any travel required?

Travel is minimal; most duties are performed within the refuge area.

Job from U.S. Fish And Wildlife Service

The Department of the Interior and the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service are dedicated to conserving fish, wildlife, plants, and their habitats. By managing national wildlife refuges, the agency ensures that these natural spaces continue to provide benefits for current and future generations of Americans.