Colorado State University · Las Vegas, NV

Desert Tortoise Monitor at Colorado State University — Las Vegas, NV

Full-timeLas Vegas, NV$20–$20/hourPosted 2026-07-22Apply on Workday
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# Job Description

## Position Summary

The Center for Environmental Management of Military Lands (CEMML) at Colorado State University is hiring a Desert Tortoise Monitor to join the CEMML Las Vegas team. The CEMML Las Vegas team provides natural resource support for Nellis Air Force Base, the Nevada Test and Training Range, and Creech Air Force Base.

The Desert Tortoise Monitor will conduct surveys for desert tortoises and their associated signs as part of demographic plot surveys and may assist with other program duties if needed. This is a part-time position and will not exceed 4 long weekends/ 12 days of work per year. Field work will consist of hiking in remote areas for significant distances, while carrying a heavy pack (up to 30 lbs.) in adverse weather conditions. Surveys will occur when installation/range access allows (Friday – Monday, particularly Columbus Day and Memorial Day weekends), during desert tortoise active season (April – May, September – October). Due to military training requirements, survey schedules may change or be canceled on short notice.

Employees will be scheduled for field work ~2 months in advance. Personnel are to report to the CEMML Las Vegas Office when scheduled. Transportation to and from the work site will be provided.

## Full Consideration Date:

Applications will be accepted until positions are filled.

## Organization:

The Center for Environmental Management of Military Lands (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 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 to sustain our resources for future generations. To learn more about CEMML’s contributions to land management and our mission, vision, and values, please visit http://www.cemml.colostate.edu/.

## Conditions of Employment:

  • 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 eligible to work in the United States by proposed start date. CEMML will not provide visa sponsorship for this position.
  • Colorado State University conducts background checks on all final candidates.

## Supervision:

This position will not have supervisory duties.

## Minimum Qualifications:

  • Bachelor of Science degree in biology, wildlife science (or similar subject)
  • Ability to work in challenging field conditions (heat, cold, carrying heavy equipment, ability to walk long distances, etc.)
  • Demonstrated adaptability to field work related issues (health and safety conscious and able to perform equipment troubleshooting)

## Preferred Qualifications:

  • Prior experience with Mojave Desert Tortoises or other chelonian species
  • Experience and training necessary to be approved as a desert tortoise Authorized Biologist by the US Fish and Wildlife Service.
  • Previous experience working in desert ecosystems
  • Previous experience supporting natural resource projects on military installations
  • Previous experience working with ESA Threatened or Endangered listed species

## Applicant Instructions: To apply for this position please submit the following:

  • A resume/CV
  • A cover letter highlighting your experience related to desert tortoise handling/monitoring/surveying, experience with desert ecosystem work, any experience working within the Department of Defense, how you meet the Minimum and Preferred Qualifications, why you are applying for the position, and confirmation that you understand this is a part-time position and it will not exceed 4 long weekends/ 12 days of work per year.

## Point of contact for any inquiries:

  • Drew White-Jacobson, Lead Desert Tortoise Biologist - drew.white-jacobson@colostate.edu
  • Kate Huxster, CEMML Las Vegas Operations Manager - katherine.huxster@colostate.edu

# Salary Range

$20/hr - $50/hr, commensurate with experience, education, and overall qualifications.

# Required Application Documents

Cover Letter, Resume/CV

# Employee Benefits

  • Review our detailed benefits information here.
  • Explore the additional perks of working at CSU here.
  • For the total value of CSU benefits in addition to wages, use our compensation calculator.
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# Background Check Policy Statement

# EEO