Become a Leader in Conservation: Wildlife Refuge Manager Opportunity

Are you ready to take the next step in your environmental career? The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) is seeking an experienced, motivated leader to serve as a Wildlife Refuge Manager at the Northern Great Plains Wetland Management District Complex in Devils Lake, North Dakota. This is a vital role for those committed to protecting our nation’s natural resources.

Job Responsibilities

As a Wildlife Refuge Manager, you will be the backbone of refuge operations. Your core responsibilities include:

Strategic Planning: Formulating long-range strategies to align with refuge policies, fiscal requirements, and property management goals.
Team Leadership: Supervising a multidisciplinary team of technical and professional staff, fostering a culture of collaboration and problem-solving.
Habitat Stewardship: Overseeing land acquisition initiatives, including conservation easements and leases, to protect resources beyond standard boundaries.
Stakeholder Coordination: Building relationships with Tribal, Federal, State, and private landowners to achieve shared conservation objectives.

Requirements and Qualifications

To qualify for this GS-13 position, you must demonstrate at least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-12 level in the federal sector.

Minimum Requirements

Must be a U.S. Citizen.
Hold a degree in zoology, wildlife management, or a related biological field.
Possess a valid driver's license.

Competencies Evaluated

Competency	Focus
Leadership	Managing and mentoring a diverse team
Ecology	Understanding habitat conservation needs
Project Management	Overseeing land acquisition and fiscal planning

Salary and Benefits

The position offers a competitive salary range of $106,437 to $138,370 per year. Employees also benefit from the federal total rewards package, including excellent health insurance, retirement options through FERS and the Thrift Savings Plan, and generous leave accrual.

Application Tips

Resume Management: Stick to the two-page limit. Use standard margins and font size.
Detail Your Experience: Be explicit about hours worked per week. If you have federal experience, note your series and grade.
Documentation: Ensure all transcripts and SF-50s are uploaded correctly. An incomplete package will result in a loss of consideration.

Protecting the Northern Great Plains is a challenging yet deeply rewarding career path. If you have the leadership skills and biological background to manage these critical wetland districts, we encourage you to apply by November 18, 2026.

Why This Wildlife Refuge Manager Job Matters

Lead the future of conservation in the Northern Great Plains. Become a steward of our nation’s wetlands and protect critical habitats as a Wildlife Refuge Manager.

Wildlife Refuge Manager Job Overview

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is seeking a dedicated professional to serve as a Wildlife Refuge Manager for the Northern Great Plains Wetland Management District Complex in Devils Lake, North Dakota. This pivotal leadership role involves managing large-scale habitat protection, overseeing land acquisition initiatives, and directing multidisciplinary teams to preserve natural resources for future generations.

Requirements for Wildlife Refuge Manager

Must be a U.S. Citizen or National.
Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license.
Required to pass a background investigation and suitability check.
Must participate in direct deposit and E-Verify.
Selective Service registration for males born after 12/31/1959.
Must serve a one-year probationary period.
Required to wear a uniform and comply with agency standards.
Must file a financial disclosure report within 30 days of appointment.

Preferred Qualifications for Wildlife Refuge Manager

Demonstrated experience overseeing wildlife biology or habitat management programs at the GS-12 equivalent level.
Proven history directing natural resource or public land management operations.
Experience supervising professional and technical staff.
Strong ability to coordinate with Federal, State, Tribal, and private stakeholders.
Academic background in zoology, wildlife management, or related biological sciences.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive federal health insurance programs.
✓Life insurance and long-term care options.
✓Federal retirement pension plan (FERS).
✓Thrift Savings Plan (401k-style investment account).
✓Paid federal holidays, annual leave, and sick leave.
✓Opportunities for professional development and training.

💡 How to Apply Wildlife Refuge Manager Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Wildlife Refuge Manager Job

Log into your USAJOBS account.
Carefully review the full vacancy announcement.
Select your hiring eligibilities and ensure you have supporting documentation.
Complete the required online questionnaire and assessment.
Upload a two-page maximum resume and necessary supporting documents (SF-50, transcripts, etc.).
Submit your application package before the closing date of 11/18/2026.

💡 General Tips

Keep your resume strictly under two pages with at least 10-point font.
Clearly define hours worked per week in your experience descriptions.
Include series and grade level for any previous federal positions.
Submit your most recent performance appraisal signed within the last 18 months.
Proofread your application to ensure no sensitive or offensive language is included.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this position eligible for telework?

Yes, the duties are suitable for telework, pending supervisor approval.

Can I substitute education for the specialized experience requirement?

No, this specific position requires specialized experience in addition to the basic educational requirements.

What happens if I submit more than two pages for my resume?

Resumes exceeding the two-page limit will not be accepted or reviewed.

What is the work environment like?

You will spend time in both office and outdoor settings. Fieldwork may include traversing marshy or rough terrain and lifting moderately heavy equipment.

Can I use volunteer experience?

Yes, qualifying volunteer work, including AmeriCorps or Peace Corps, is accepted as part of your experience profile.

Job from U.S. Fish And Wildlife Service

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is a bureau within the Department of the Interior, dedicated to the conservation, protection, and enhancement of fish, wildlife, plants, and their habitats. By working with partners across the country, the FWS ensures that America’s natural heritage thrives for the benefit of the American people.