Colorado State University

Description of Work Unit

CEMML is a research, education, and service unit within the Warner College of Natural Resources at CSU. CEMML applies the latest and most appropriate science to promote the sustainable management of natural and cultural resources on the 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 other CSU departments to resolve complex environmental issues, leaving a legacy of science-based decisions that sustain our resources for future generations.

Avon Park AFR is a 106,000-acre United States military installation located 10 miles east of the City of Avon Park, Florida. The primary mission of this installation is to support U.S. expeditionary forces by providing space and logistical support for gunnery training. The Avon Park AFR natural resource program is responsible for providing continued mission access to natural resources be ensuring mission compliance with all related federal and local environmental laws. Other priorities for the program include threatened and endangered species management, invasive species management, wetlands management, and outdoor recreation.

To learn more about Avon Park AFR and its mission, visit https://www.moody.af.mil/About-Us/Units/AvonPark-598th-Range-Squadron/.

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

Position Summary

• Are you ready to join a nationwide community of passionate conservation professionals?
• Do you want to gain the skills and experience needed to launch your conservation career?
• Are you interested in conserving the incredible natural and cultural resources on our nation’s military lands?

If so, the CEMML Early Career Development Program (ECDP) might be just what you are looking for!

Our program offers practical experience in fish and wildlife ecology, vegetation and habitat monitoring and management, restoration, environmental compliance, natural and cultural resources planning, and Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Ideal for students, recent graduates, and early-career professionals. You’ll have the opportunity to earn college credits (and money!), connect with mentors, and build a valuable professional network. You’ll learn about federal land management while gaining real-world experience to advance your career in natural resources. Guided by experienced Resource Managers and Specialists, you’ll engage in hands-on environmental management projects, developing practical skills and enhancing your professional growth.

Paid, temporary positions are available with CSU CEMML at military installations across the United States and at CSUs main campus. These positions include internships, mentorships, and early career opportunities through CEMML’s ECDP. No military affiliation is required to apply.

Ready to take the next step in your conservation career? Join us and make a difference!

One Natural Resources Technician (Seasonal Worker, Full-time, 40 hours/week) position is available with the Colorado State University (CSU) Center for Environmental Management of Military Lands (CEMML). This position will provide support to the natural resources program at Avon Park Air Force Range, FL. Successful candidates will gain entry-level experience on a range of natural resource and wildlife management projects under mentorship with natural resource managers at Avon Park. Approximately 51-75% of this position will be office based with 26-50% field work. Ability to work independently with minimal direction is important.

Potential duties may include but are not limited to:

• Trail camera photo analysis and data entry for Florida Panthers and Eastern Indigo Snakes
• Outdoor recreation
• Threatened and endangered species monitoring and/or management
• Field-data collection, entry, and/or management
• Potential for bald eagle nest monitoring (using spotting scopes around Dec and Jan)
• Potential for Red-cockaded Woodpecker and bat monitoring
• Collecting morphometric data from species during hunting season

This position is full-time, Monday-Friday. The ECDP does not provide housing, relocation stipend, or transportation to and from work.

Required Job Qualifications

• Must have an interest in pursuing a career in federal lands management.
• Must be physically capable of working independently in outdoor locations under varying weather conditions.
• Pursuing a B.S. in natural resources-, cultural resources-, ecosystem science-, or environmental policy-related field (at least a sophomore standing).
• Experience using Microsoft Office Suite.
• Must have a valid driver’s license for operating federal vehicles.
• Must be able to pass a federal background investigation to obtain a Department of Defense Installation Access Pass.
• Must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. by position start date; CEMML will not provide visa sponsorship for this position.

Preferred Job Qualifications

We’d love to hear about your experience with the preferred qualifications listed below! Please also share any additional qualifications you believe make you a great fit for this position. Currently enrolled or holder of a Graduate Degree in natural resources-, biology-, or environmental science-related fields.

• Experience collecting field data and entering data in paper or digital forms.
• Experience using GPS equipment to collect field data.
• Experience flora and/or fauna monitoring or management (specify taxa/ecosystem/regions of prior experience).
• Experience performing habitat restoration or invasive species management.
• Experience in the operation and maintenance of heavy equipment in wildland fire and forestry practices and/or ability to meet requirements for the NWCG standards for Fire Fighter Type 2, which includes an annual pack test at arduous level and fire line refresher (maintained annually).
• Experience with manual labor using powered tools and heavy equipment such as chainsaws, weed-eaters, mowers, tractors, ATVs/UTVs etc.
• Training and experience using GIS software.

EEO

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.