Overview The Natural Resource Specialist will support activities as required by the Endangered Species Act; the Sikes Act; the USFWS Fort Gordon Biological Opinion; and the Fort Gordon Integrated Natural Resources Management Plan. The Natural Resource Specialist must have a clear understanding of the biological principles and theories of forestry, and wildlife management, and the ecology management of the longleaf pine wiregrass ecosystem and be able to identify the flora and fauna of the southeastern United States. Responsibilities Perform field data collection and monitoring for all aspects of natural resources, fish and wildlife, forest, pest, and fire management. Perform population and habitat surveys for threatened and endangered species and other wildlife on Fort Gordon, GA.
- Conduct Red Cockaded Woodpecker (RCW) habitat and cavity surveys on up to 3,000 acres annually. Identify new cavity trees and new cluster sites, support RCW habitat improvement and artificial cavity construction and installation.
- Conduct annual RCW population census and compile data on RCW cluster habitat management. Assist with banding of juvenile and adult birds.
- Conduct population and habitat surveys for the Southeastern American Kestrel and other bird species covered by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.
- Perform Gopher Tortoise population census and monitoring, fish and wildlife population census, and harvest data collection.
- Provide environmental education and outreach programs to installation military units, schools, and tenant groups.
- Perform physical tasks, in all types of weather conditions, such as raking RCW cavity trees and preparing areas for prescribed burns, conducting prescribed burns, and performing GPS data collection.
- Prepare and submit a monthly progress report summarizing task accomplishments for the reporting period.
- Perform other related tasks, as required, in support of the Natural Resources Management office at Fort Gordon, GA.
Requirements Proven experience in landscape maintenance, landscaping, or ecological restoration with a strong understanding of sustainable land management practices. Supervising experience leading teams during outdoor projects or construction activities. Knowledge of GIS applications and GPS devices for precise data collection and site mapping. Familiarity with horticulture principles, tree care techniques including trimming and pruning, as well as general arboriculture practices. Ability to operate hand tools, power tools, heavy machinery, and construction equipment safely and efficiently. Experience with data collection methods related to environmental monitoring or resource assessment. Physical stamina for heavy lifting, long outdoor workdays, and exposure to various weather conditions. Valid driver's license with commercial driving certification preferred; experience operating trucks or large vehicles is advantageous. Strong communication skills for coordinating with team members and documenting project progress accurately. Join us in safeguarding our environment through innovative resource management! This paid position offers a chance to develop your skills in ecological restoration while making a meaningful difference in natural landscapes worldwide. Qualifications (Education and Experience) Bachelor's Degree in Wildlife Biology, General Biology, Environmental Science, or related discipline and a minimum of 2-years relevant work experience. Demonstrate a clear understanding of the biological principles and theories of forestry, wildlife, and the ecology management of the longleaf pine wiregrass ecosystem and be able to identify the flora and fauna of the southeastern United States. Preferred - Certification in banding endangered RCW adults and nestlings, extracting nestlings from nest cavities, resighting color bands, and use of Swedish ladders and climbing harness. Knowledge of RCW biology and habitat management, and of federal and state laws and regulatory procedures pertaining to RCW recovery and management. Ability to work with specialized equipment including off-road vehicles, chainsaws, and Swedish ladders and peepers. Familiarity with bird identification and ecology. Working knowledge of GIS and GPS data management. Ability to endure long hours in harsh environmental conditions including extreme heat and exposure to insects. Must be willing to work non-standard hours. Demonstrated ability to work independently, with minimal supervision. Must be physically able to climb up to 40 feet. Ability to operate ATVs, farm tractors with implements (i.e. disk harrows and planters, and heavy-duty mowers/shredders), weed eater type brush saws, chain saws, and other heavy-duty equipment. Experience with wildland fire and preferably completed the S130
- and S190
- . Possess or be prepared to obtain a Georgia Pesticide Applicators License
- or equivalent.
- Certificates of completion must be submitted within 90 days of hire date Additional Eligibility Requirements Must be a U.
S Citizen, have a current driver's license, be able to pass a federal background security investigation, and have an original copy of birth certificate. Must be able to obtain / maintain a Common Access Card (CAC). Must have a favorable Motor Vehicle Record (MVR). Position Type and Expected Hours of Work This is a fulltime position with the typical work schedule, repeating every two weeks, as 44 hours the first week and 36 hours the following week, for a total of 80 hours every two weeks, with every other Friday as a regular day off. The day-to-day schedule is typically 0700 - 1630 but hours may vary, as required, to support forest survey, wildlife monitoring, and habitat management activities. Direct Reports No supervisory role. Travel Daily travel, to facilities and training areas on Fort Gordon, is required for this position. A company vehicle or government vehicle will be provided for daily travel on the installation. Physical Demands Tasks frequently require standing, stooping, bending, kneeling, climbing, and working in tiring and uncomfortable positions for extended periods. Individual may be required to lift and or carry equipment weighing up to 40 pounds for at least 30 feet. The work occurs both inside and outside in all types of climates and conditions. When working outside, the employee is often exposed to hot sun for extended periods of time and is occasionally subject to bad weather. Outside work may be performed under adverse conditions for extended periods. The employee will be required to always wear appropriate personal protective equipment / clothing. Damage to health may occur if safety procedures are not followed. Discomfort may be experienced while wearing personal protective equipment/ clothing, such as Nomex, eye protection, or face masks, for extended periods of time.
Benefits:
401(k) 401(k) matching Dental insurance Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Vision insurance
Work Location:
In person
