Biological and Invasive Species Technician (USFWS, Moapa Valley National Wildlife Refuge)

The Research Associate Program at GBI, in cooperation with U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service at Moapa Valley National Wildlife Refuge, is recruiting one (1) Invasive Species Technician to participate in implementing the refuge’s integrated pest management plan and assisting with other refuge management goals.

The selected will work independently and with others to accomplish refuge work plans to manage native habitats and wildlife to achieve the purpose of the refuge which is to conserve, protect, and provide habitat for the endangered Moapa Dace.

Essential Job Functions may include the following:

• Identify, map, and treat target invasive species.
• Assist with implementation of the refuge’s Integrated Pest Management System (IPM) to treat invasive species occurring on the refuge, with special focus in riparian habitats using chemical and mechanical methods.
• Track project work progress and assist with documentation of invasive species treatments with use of GIS applications.
• Capture and remove non-native aquatic organisms from the stream system.
• Act as a crew leader to lead invasive species monitoring and treatments with volunteers and public groups conducting service projects on the refuge.
• Assist with restoration efforts after invasive species eradication.
• Aid in the installation/construction of signs and barriers where necessary, to prevent the degradation of sensitive habitat.
• Complete necessary reporting of activities to GBI, Southern Nevada Restoration Team, and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for databases or data calls, as needed.
• Assist with wildlife management activities, Assist maintenance staff with repair of fleet vehicles, heavy equipment, or buildings, when needed.
• Assist with refuge management activities at Pahranagat NWR when applicable, including duck banding and migratory songbird banding.

Location

Moapa Valley National Wildlife Refuge is a protected wildlife refuge in southern Nevada. It is 50 miles north of Las Vegas, Nevada, in Clark County.

In addition to the scenic desert beauty at the Refuge, there are several recreation and natural setting opportunities to explore close by. Death Valley National Park, Mojave National Preserve, Joshua Tree National Park, Spring Mountains National Recreation Area, Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, Lake Mead National Recreation Area and more are within a few hours driving distance and afford a variety of outdoor activities ranging from hiking, mountain biking and rock climbing to fishing, boating and skiing/snowboarding.

Timeline

• Beginning November/December 2026 or pending availability and completion of DOI Background Investigation, 52 week appointment.
• Full time (40 hours/week).
• Schedule: 5 days a week, 8 hours daily.

Compensation & Benefits

Compensation: $16.00 - $20.45 hourly, depending on experience.

Benefits:

• Company-paid comprehensive medical, dental (with option to upgrade in coverage), and vision insurance.
• $25,000 Basic Life & AD&D insurance at no cost.
• Paid Time Off and Paid Holidays (Mirrors Project Partner holiday schedule).
• Eligible for 401(k) retirement savings with up to 4% GBI match.
• Access to Pro Deals.

Housing: Will not be provided and the selected participant will be expected to procure housing on their own.

Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, employees must be able to satisfactorily carry out each essential duty. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, wildlife ecology or management, or related field.
• Experience in collecting data accurately and completely and entering data correctly into a computer system.
• Possess a valid, state-issued driver’s license and clean driving record.
• Ability to safely drive a 4WD vehicle on unimproved roads.
• Ability to self-direct and self-motivate.
• Ability to work productively, consistently and cooperatively as part of a team to accomplish mutual goals.
• Possess strong organizational skills.
• Ability to communicate clearly and efficiently with the public, coworkers, and Technical Advisors both orally and in writing, and respond in a professional manner to inquiries from the public regarding work activities.
• Ability to safely conduct strenuous fieldwork requiring regular physical exertion including hiking on uneven terrain.
• Ability to work outdoors for long periods of time, sometimes in adverse weather conditions such as hot, cold and/or humid conditions.
• Ability to modify work schedule to accommodate tasks that must take place before dawn or after dusk.
• Must provide a valid driver’s license and possess a clean driving record.
• Successful applicants must complete a Department of Interior (DOI) Background Investigation (BI) or submit paperwork to USFWS human resources indicating an active and fully adjudicated BI has already been completed prior to beginning position. If you already have a fully adjudicated BI, please let us know in your application. Selective Service registration is required for individuals who are legally required to register.

Preferred:

• Experience banding birds or strong interest in bird banding/ornithology.
• At least one year of experience in a field-based position.
• Ability to lift and carry heavy items, such as equipment packs weighing up to 50 pounds, on a regular basis.

• Familiarity with backcountry, low-impact principles.
• Plant identification skills and previous experience in invasive plant management and/or restoration ecology.
• Familiarity and experience with Gre