Become a Wildlife Refuge Manager: A Career in Conservation

Are you ready to turn your passion for biology and leadership into a meaningful career? The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is hiring a Wildlife Refuge Manager for the Kulm Wetland Management District in North Dakota. This is an incredible opportunity for a dedicated conservationist to lead land management, habitat restoration, and professional staff in one of the country's most vital regions for wetland preservation.

Job Responsibilities

As a manager, you are more than a biologist; you are a leader. Your daily responsibilities include:

Team Leadership: Mentoring and supervising a multi-disciplinary team of professionals, technicians, and seasonal staff.
Project Oversight: Planning and coordinating habitat restoration, wildlife population studies, and contaminant projects.
Regulatory Compliance: Navigating complex natural resource laws and easements to ensure the integrity of the National Wildlife Refuge System.
Strategic Planning: Developing and executing annual work plans and managing regional budgets.

Core Competencies Comparison

Competency	Focus Area
Supervision	Managing staff performance and setting high standards.
Planning	Developing long-term goals for refuge operations.
Biology	Overseeing wildlife inventory and habitat restoration.

Requirements

To be considered for this GS-12 role, applicants must demonstrate:

One year of specialized experience at the GS-11 level.
A strong background in wildlife management or biological sciences.
Ability to meet citizenship and background investigation requirements.
Proficiency in managing federal budgets and operational plans.

Salary and Benefits

The position offers a competitive salary range of $89,508 to $116,362 annually. Beyond the paycheck, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service offers a robust benefits package, including federal retirement plans, comprehensive health coverage, and potential for telework.

Application Tips

Your application is your first impression. Keep your resume concise (under 2 pages), ensure all dates of employment are clear, and highlight your specific experience with wildlife programs. Always submit your most recent performance appraisal to ensure your packet is complete.

If you are driven to protect the American landscape and possess the skills to lead a high-performing team, this Wildlife Refuge Manager role is your next move. Apply today to contribute to the long-term health and vitality of our national wildlife refuges.

Why This Wildlife Refuge Manager Job Matters

Lead the future of conservation in the heart of the prairie as a Wildlife Refuge Manager with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Wildlife Refuge Manager Job Overview

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is seeking a dedicated and experienced Wildlife Refuge Manager to join the team at the Kulm Wetland Management District in North Dakota. This pivotal role involves overseeing complex refuge operations, managing natural resource programs, and leading a diverse team of professional and administrative staff. You will be responsible for planning and implementing high-impact habitat restoration projects, ensuring regulatory compliance, and managing budgets while fostering partnerships to protect our nation's vital wildlife resources.

Requirements for Wildlife Refuge Manager

Must be a U.S. citizen or national.
Must possess a valid driver's license.
Must undergo a successful background investigation and adjudication.
Males born after 12/31/59 must be registered for the Selective Service.
Must participate in direct deposit and pass an E-Verify check.
Must adhere to agency uniform standards.
Must file a financial disclosure report within 30 days of appointment.
Must complete a 1-year probationary period.
Must hold specialized experience at the GS-11 level or equivalent.

Preferred Qualifications for Wildlife Refuge Manager

Academic background in zoology, wildlife management, or a related biological field.
Proven experience in developing and implementing annual work plans and budgets.
Extensive knowledge of natural resource laws and environmental regulations.
Experience in coordinating with federal, state, tribal, and local stakeholders.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive health and life insurance options.
✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
✓Paid federal holidays, vacation, and sick leave.
✓Telework opportunities available with supervisor approval.
✓Professional development and training resources.

💡 How to Apply Wildlife Refuge Manager Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Wildlife Refuge Manager Job

Read the full announcement thoroughly before applying.
Prepare a resume that does not exceed two pages and includes all required information (e.g., hours worked per week, grade/series if applicable).
Submit all required documents, including transcripts and most recent performance appraisal.
Complete the online application and assessment questionnaire through the USAJOBS portal.
Monitor your status through the USAJOBS account dashboard.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume includes month and year for every position held.
Double-check that your resume is exactly two pages or fewer to avoid automatic disqualification.
Explicitly state your hours worked per week, as this is critical for validating specialized experience.
Submit your most recent performance appraisal signed within the last 18 months.
Do not include personal photographs in your application package.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary mission of this position?

The Wildlife Refuge Manager oversees daily operations at the Kulm Wetland Management District, including leading staff, managing habitat restoration projects, and ensuring all conservation activities comply with federal regulations.

Can I work remotely?

This position is eligible for telework, subject to supervisor approval and the requirements of the role.

What is the work environment like?

You will balance time between a standard office environment and field work in outdoor settings that may involve rough terrain and extreme weather conditions.

Is relocation assistance offered?

Yes, relocation benefits are available for qualified candidates.

Job from U.S. Fish And Wildlife Service

The Department of the Interior and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service are committed to protecting our nation's natural resources and honoring the heritage of our lands. The Kulm Wetland Management District serves as a critical hub for migratory birds and local biodiversity, requiring strong leadership to manage the complex balance between environmental protection and administrative responsibility.