USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)

Wildlife Biologist

Posted 30+ days ago

Job summary

  • Job post source

    This job is directly from USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)

  • Job overview

    The Wildlife Biologist role at USDA APHIS involves managing wildlife damage management projects to assess and mitigate problems caused by wild or feral animals in various environments, contributing to protecting agriculture and public health.

  • Responsibilities and impact

    The job includes assessing wildlife species, managing human-wildlife conflicts, applying wildlife management techniques, training personnel, ensuring compliance with wildlife laws, conducting outreach, and collaborating with government and partner agencies.

  • Compensation and benefits

    The salary range is $49,960 to $88,808 per year, with benefits likely including health insurance, retirement plans, and other federal employee perks typical of USDA positions.

  • Experience and skills

    Candidates must have a degree in biological sciences with specific coursework in wildlife, zoology, and botany or equivalent experience; specialized experience varies by grade level, including wildlife species identification, project coordination, and knowledge of wildlife laws.

  • Career development

    Opportunities include training in wildlife damage and disease control, potential for advancement through GS grade levels, and involvement in emergency response assignments.

  • Work environment and culture

    The USDA APHIS culture emphasizes public service, emergency response readiness, collaboration with multiple stakeholders, and commitment to protecting agriculture and public health.

  • Company information

    USDA APHIS is a federal agency focused on protecting animal and plant health in the U.S., operating in domestic and international markets with a mission to safeguard agriculture and public health.

  • Team overview

    The candidate will work within the Wildlife Services program, collaborating with federal, state, and local agencies, tribes, and other partners to manage wildlife conflicts and disease control.

  • Application process

    Applicants must submit transcripts and meet qualification requirements by the closing date; application is through USAJobs with detailed instructions on the official announcement.

  • Unique job features

    The position involves unique responsibilities such as wildlife damage management at airports, use of specialized equipment and control methods, and participation in emergency response duties.

Company overview

The USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is a federal agency responsible for protecting and promoting U.S. agricultural health. They ensure the health of animals and plants by preventing the introduction and spread of pests and diseases, which in turn supports the agricultural economy. APHIS makes money through various services, including inspections, certifications, and regulatory compliance fees. Established in 1972, APHIS has played a crucial role in safeguarding the nation's agriculture and natural resources, making it a key player in maintaining the safety and quality of the U.S. food supply.

How to land this job

  • Position your resume to highlight your academic background in biological sciences, emphasizing coursework in wildlife biology, zoology, and botany as required by USDA APHIS for the Wildlife Biologist role.

  • Emphasize experience or education related to wildlife damage management, including skills in assessing wildlife species, managing human-wildlife conflicts, and using biological sampling and control tools relevant to the job description.

  • Apply through multiple platforms such as the official USDA APHIS careers site, USAJobs, and LinkedIn to maximize your visibility and chances of securing the Wildlife Biologist position.

  • Connect with current USDA APHIS Wildlife Services employees on LinkedIn, using ice breakers like asking about their experience with wildlife damage management projects or seeking advice on navigating the application process for APHIS roles.

  • Optimize your resume for ATS by incorporating keywords from the job description such as 'wildlife damage management,' 'biological sampling equipment,' 'human-wildlife conflict,' and specific laws like the 'Migratory Bird Treaty Act' to ensure your resume passes automated screenings.

  • Jennie Johnson's Power Apply feature can automate tailoring your resume, identify the best application channels, and find relevant LinkedIn contacts, allowing you to focus your time on preparing for interviews and networking effectively.

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