Wildlife Specialist Level 1

Join the only state agency in Arizona responsible for conserving and protecting more than 800 wildlife species. Be part of a passionate group of people who want to make a positive impact on outdoor recreation in Arizona by managing resources for safe, compatible opportunities for current and future generations. From fishing, boating and off-highway vehicle use to shooting sports, hunting and wildlife watching, Arizona Game and Fish supports it all. Our biologists use the best available science in their management actions, and our wildlife managers are on the ground in your communities making a difference every day.

About the role

The Wildlife Specialist 1 will work under general supervision to plan, organize, conduct, and coordinate professional wildlife projects in a field and office setting. This position performs wildlife and habitat data collection, data entry and analysis, and executes technical surveys and/or evaluations. Assists in specific project tasks, organizing and maintaining equipment, and collecting data. Will serve as a field crew member. Operates a variety of specialized equipment common to wildlife work and may be required to drive long distances.

This position requires constant in-state and out-of-state travel including overnight multiple-day field trips, and night, weekend, and holiday work will be occasionally required. The successful candidate will conduct field work related to rare and endangered native plants, vegetation assessments, abandoned mine reclamation, installation of wildlife-friendly fencing, and inventory and monitoring for a variety of bird and mammal species across Arizona.

Responsibilities

• Plan and execute day-to-day logistics of assigned projects
• Conduct surveys and perform field work in relation to wildlife and habitat projects
• Process, compile, summarize, analyze, and perform QA/QC for all project data into databases
• Assist in generating quarterly updates and completing annual reports and summaries
• Plan and assess manpower and equipment needs
• Perform other duties as assigned

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in wildlife science, fisheries, or a related field
• Two years of professional wildlife research or management experience (an advanced degree can replace one year)
• Valid Arizona driver’s license and clean driving record
• Ability to pass a post-offer physical exam and obtain a pre-exposure rabies vaccine
• Knowledge of habitat and wildlife field investigations, management and conservation techniques, and best practices
• Knowledge of federal, state, and agency laws, regulations, policies, and procedures
• Knowledge of scientific data collection procedures, statistical analysis, and geographic information systems
• Skill in data gathering, standardized sampling techniques, verbal and written communications
• Skill in customer service, public relations techniques, problem-solving, orienting, camping, hiking, and off-road vehicle use
• Ability to develop effective communication and working relationships, negotiate, train, and evaluate work products

Skills

• Hiking, camping, off-road driving
• Data analysis
• Strong knowledge of wildlife and plant species native to Arizona
• Use of GPS and maps for navigation in remote terrain
• Species identification and habitat requirements of Arizona wildlife, plants, and habitats

Benefits

• 13 days of vacation
• 12 sick days
• 10 paid holidays
• Tuition Reimbursement Program
• Participation in the nationally recognized Arizona State Retirement System
• Superior health care options including vision care, dental care, pharmacy benefits, and flexible spending account
• Life, long-term disability, and short-term disability insurance options
• Paid Parental Leave program

Pay

Hiring hourly range: $21.14 - $25.00