Wildlife Biologist – Hurlburt Field, Florida

position Title: Wildlife Biologist – Hurlburt Field, Florida

Job Level: Entry-Level

Location/Installation: Hurlburt Field, FL

# of Positions Available: 1

Annual Salary Range: $60,000 – $74,000

Position Summary

The Center for Environmental Management of Military Lands (CEMML) at Colorado State University is hiring a Wildlife Biologist (Administrative professional/Individual Contributor III) to support Hurlburt Field, an Air Force installation in Okaloosa County, Florida. This position will serve as a liaison between the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and the natural resources program at Hurlburt Field. The Wildlife Biologist will lead efforts to implement and coordinate conservation and habitat management projects that support Air Force environmental stewardship goals, with a focus on federally listed species and sensitive habitats.

The Wildlife Biologist will work in coordination with the Air Force Natural Resources Manager and lead efforts related to species monitoring and habitat restoration, with a focus on federally listed species specific to Hurlburt Field. Key responsibilities include developing and coordinating field surveys, developing management prescriptions, overseeing invasive species control, and coordinating restoration activities with partner agencies and contractors, providing oversight of field crews and ensuring that restoration objectives are achieved efficiently and in accordance with environmental regulations. The Wildlife Biologist is expected to exercise sound judgment and scientific rigor in all aspects of project planning and execution.

This position also supports Integrated Natural Resources Management Plan (INRMP) updates, NEPA coordination, and permit reporting. These roles require strong field biology skills, experience with GIS and data management, and the ability to work collaboratively with military personnel, contractors, and conservation partners.

This position involves a high degree of autonomy and technical expertise. The Wildlife Biologist will independently develop management prescriptions and restoration actions that directly impact conservation outcomes and regulatory compliance at Hurlburt Field. They will independently develop management prescriptions and restoration actions for federally listed species, including determining survey protocols, evaluating habitat suitability, and recommending prescribed fire operations. The position involves leading restoration activities in collaboration with partner agencies and contractors, including oversight of field crews and ensuring that restoration goals are met effectively and in compliance with regulatory standards. Decisions are made with a high degree of autonomy and technical expertise, and they directly impact the conservation outcomes and regulatory compliance of natural resource programs at Hurlburt Field.

Must be able to work in-person at Hurlburt Field, FL. Relocation and housing NOT provided.

This is a six-month position to start, with the potential for extension based on available funding and project needs.

Duties/Responsibilities include:

• Lead species and habitat monitoring and management for red-cockaded woodpecker, reticulated flatwoods salamander, bog frogs, and listed bats
• Coordinate restoration and recovery actions with partner agencies
• Conduct invasive species surveys and recommend treatment areas
• Oversee contractors and field crews
• Support INRMP updates, NEPA coordination, and permit reporting
• Develop, update, and maintain biological and GIS databases
• Produce GIS layers, metadata, maps, and technical reports consistent with USAF standards
• Maintain project documentation including survey protocols, findings, and recommendation
• Conduct biannual briefings for Hurlburt Field and Air Force Civil Engineer Center natural resource program staff
• Prepare and submit annual reports summarizing project results and conclusions

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in wildlife biology, ecology, natural resources, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of professional experience in wildlife biology or natural resource management. Experience working in southeastern U.S. ecosystems, especially wetland and flatwoods habitats
• Professional experience conducting field surveys for federally listed species found at Hurlburt Field such as red-cockaded woodpecker, reticulated flatwoods salamander, bog frogs, and federally listed bat species
• Proficiency with GIS software (e.g., ArcGIS) and database management.
• Ability to work independently in remote field conditions and coordinate with diverse stakeholders.
• Must have a valid driver’s license or the ability to obtain a driver’s license by the employment start date. The successful candidate must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. by the proposed start date; CEMML will not provide visa sponsorship for this position.
• Must be able to pass the DoD federal background check to obtain a Common Access Card (CAC). Additional information regarding eligibility and qualification requirements can be found https://www.nationalsecuritylawfirm.com/navigating-cac-card-issues

Preferred Requirements

• Master’s degree in wildlife biology, ecology, or related field.
• Experience working with USFWS, on military installations, or with other federal land management agencies.
• Experience complying with federal environmental regulations (e.g., ESA, NEPA, Sikes Act).
• Experience with prescribed fire planning or implementation.
• Demonstrated ability to manage contractors and restoration crews.
• Author or Co-author of relevant publications on species or habitats found in the region

About CEMML

CEMML is a research, education and service unit within the Warner College of Natural Resources at Colorado State University (CSU). CEMML applies the latest and most appropriate science to promote the sustainable management of natural and cultural resources on Department of Defense (DoD) and other public lands. We provide technical support, conduct applied research, and offer career development and learning opportunities to support resource stewardship. We collaborate with our sponsors and within CSU to resolve complex environmental issues, leaving a legacy of science-based decisions that sustain our resources for future generations.

To learn more about CEMML’s contributions to land management, our mission, vision, and values, visit http://www.cemml.colostate.edu/

Application Instructions

For full consideration, apply by: 12/28/25

Link to the full description and application instructions (Open Pool): https://jobs.colostate.edu/postings/168359

Employee Benefits:
Colorado State University is not just a workplace; it’s a thriving community that’s transforming lives and improving the human condition through world-class teaching, research, and service. With a robust benefits package, collaborative atmosphere, and focus on work-life balance, CSU is where you can thrive, grow, and make a lasting impact. To learn more, please visit:

• https://hr.colostate.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/25/2021/01/benefits-summary-afap.pdf
• https://hr.colostate.edu/prospective-employees/our-perks/
• https://hr.colostate.edu/total-compensation-calculator/
• https://hr.colostate.edu/prospective-employees/our-community/

Colorado State University (CSU) provides equal employment opportunities to all applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

Colorado State University strives to provide a safe study, work, and living environment for its faculty, staff, volunteers and students. To support this environment and comply with applicable laws and regulations, CSU conducts background checks for the finalist before a final offer. The type of background check conducted varies by position and can include, but is not limited to, criminal history, sex offender registry, motor vehicle history, financial history, and/or education verification. Background checks will also be conducted when required by law or contract and when, in the discretion of the University, it is reasonable and prudent to do so.