1

Desert Tortoise Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Desert Tortoise Field Biologists (Field Based)

Elko, NV · On-site

$35.16 - $39.56/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

ERM is hiring experienced Desert Tortoise Field Biologists to conduct pre-project protocol-level surveys for desert tortoise. This is a full-time (60 hours/week), limited-term role for a duration of ...

Desert Tortoise Field Biologists (Field Based)

Elko, NV · On-site

$35.16 - $39.56/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

ERM is hiring experienced Desert Tortoise Field Biologists to conduct pre-project protocol-level surveys for desert tortoise. This is a full-time (60 hours/week), limited-term role for a duration of ...

Ability to meet California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) Approved Biologist requirements for Mojave Desert Tortoise and other Sensitive, Threatened, and Endangered Species found in the ...

Field Biologist (Field Based)

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$96K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Conducting protocol-level desert tortoise surveys. * Electronic data collection using Field Maps and Survey123 applications. * Working as a member of large team of biologists. * Daily reporting.

Field Biologist (Field Based)

San Diego, CA · On-site

$96K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Conducting protocol-level desert tortoise surveys. * Electronic data collection using Field Maps and Survey123 applications. * Working as a member of large team of biologists. * Daily reporting.

Experience with Mojave Desert Tortoise * Experience with construction monitoring and/or conducting field surveys, including tortoise surveys * Valid recovery USFWS permits for listed species (Mojave ...

Project Biologist

Irvine, CA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Experience with and/or permits for arroyo toad, coastal California gnatcatcher, least Bell's vireo, southwestern willow flycatcher, Mohave ground squirrel, and/or desert tortoise will be considered a ...

Project Biologist

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Experience with and/or permits for arroyo toad, coastal California gnatcatcher, least Bell's vireo, southwestern willow flycatcher, Mohave ground squirrel, and/or desert tortoise will be considered a ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Desert Tortoise information

See salary details

$22.5K

$66.7K

$100K

How much do desert tortoise jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for desert tortoise in the United States is $66,742.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,500.00 and $100,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges wildlife biologists face when working with desert tortoises in the field?

Wildlife biologists working with desert tortoises often encounter challenges such as extreme temperatures, remote work locations, and the need to minimize disturbance to the tortoises and their habitats. Fieldwork may involve long hours walking through rugged terrain, collecting data on tortoise health, movements, and habitat conditions. Additionally, biologists must navigate permitting requirements and collaborate with land managers and conservation organizations to ensure their research supports both regulatory compliance and conservation goals.

What is a desert tortoise?

Desert tortoises are a species of land-dwelling reptiles native to the deserts of the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. They are well adapted to arid environments, spending much of their lives in burrows to escape the extreme heat. Desert tortoises are known for their high-domed shells, slow movement, and long lifespans, sometimes exceeding 50 years in the wild. As a threatened species, they are protected by law, and their populations are closely monitored to prevent further decline.

What is the difference between Desert Tortoise vs Wildlife Biologist?

AspectDesert TortoiseWildlife Biologist
Required CredentialsTypically a biology degree, field experience, and permits for handling reptilesBiology or environmental science degree, research experience, and fieldwork skills
Work EnvironmentDesert habitats, field research, conservation sitesVaried environments including labs, field sites, and offices
Industry UsageWildlife conservation, environmental agencies, research projectsResearch institutions, government agencies, NGOs

The Desert Tortoise is a specific species-focused role often involved in conservation and habitat management, while a Wildlife Biologist has a broader scope, studying various species and ecosystems. Both roles require biology background and fieldwork, but the Wildlife Biologist typically engages in wider research activities across multiple species and environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a desert tortoise, and why are they important?

I'm sorry, but 'Desert Tortoise' is not a real-world professional occupation, so I cannot provide a skills and qualifications overview for this role.
More about Desert Tortoise jobs

What cities are hiring for Desert Tortoise jobs?

Cities with the most Desert Tortoise job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Desert Tortoise jobs?

The most popular types of Desert Tortoise jobs are:

What states have the most Desert Tortoise jobs?

States with the most job openings for Desert Tortoise jobs include:

Infographic showing various Desert Tortoise job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $66,742 per year, or $32.1 per hour.

Desert Tortoise Monitor

Colorado State University

Las Vegas, NV • On-site

$50/hr

Other

Posted 21 days ago


Colorado State University rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 49 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

485th of 618 rated colleges and universities


Job description

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

To apply, please upload the following applicant documents. Ensure your materials fully address the required and preferred job qualifications of the position. Please note, applicants may redact information from their application materials that identifies their age, date of birth, or dates of attendance at or graduation from an educational institution.

Cover Letter, Resume/CV

Employee Benefits

Colorado State University is not just a workplace; it’s a thriving community that’s transforming lives and improving the human condition through world-class teaching, research, and service. With a robust benefits package, collaborative atmosphere, and focus on work-life balance, CSU is where you can thrive, grow, and make a lasting impact.

  • Review our detailed benefits information here. (http://hr.colostate.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/25/2021/01/benefits-summary-afap.pdf)

  • Explore the additional perks of working at CSU here.

  • For the total value of CSU benefits in addition to wages, use our compensation calculator. (http://hr.colostate.edu/total-compensation-calculator/)

  • Lastly, click here for more information about why Fort Collins is consistently ranked in the top cities to live in!

Background Check Policy Statement

Colorado State University strives to provide a safe study, work, and living environment for its faculty, staff, volunteers and students. To support this environment and comply with applicable laws and regulations, CSU conducts background checks for the finalist before a final offer. The type of background check conducted varies by position and can include, but is not limited to, criminal history, sex offender registry, motor vehicle history, financial history, and/or education verification. Background checks will also be conducted when required by law or contract and when, in the discretion of the University, it is reasonable and prudent to do so.

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.

Inspired by its land-grant heritage, Colorado State University is committed to excellence and engagement, setting the standard for public research universities in teaching, research, service and extension for the benefit of the citizens of Colorado, the United States, and the world.

Prospective Employees, click here to learn more about CSU's perks and purpose. (https://hr.colostate.edu/prospective-employees/)

Current employees will need to apply for jobs in Workday.


What Colorado State University employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Colorado State University logo

About Colorado State University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Colorado State University is one of the nation’s top public Tier 1 Research universities and an institution on the rise. Our Ram success is driven by an ambition to be excellent in all we do combined with an unparalleled location that is one of the fastest-growing and most vibrant areas in the country. CSU is a higher education destination for working and learning for faculty, staff, and students from across Colorado, the nation, and around the globe. CSU has produced record enrollment in the past decade, built on all-time highs in student diversity and student success, experienced record fundraising and research expenditures that keep hitting new highs year-after-year, and our faculty are known nationally and internationally for their groundbreaking research. Among other recognition for research and creative scholarship, CSU was recognized in 2022 as one of 10 top research institutions in the world contributing to solving the COVID pandemic. CSU is thriving, with a five-year average enrollment of more than 33,400 students. The record-setting 2022 incoming class of 5,517 students reflects 25% from diverse populations and 24% who were first in their families to attend college. CSU graduates find success with 85% securing a job related to their career plans within six months of graduation. More than nine out of 10 Rams would select CSU again, demonstrating the quality of the campus and learning environments.

Industry

Education

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Fort Collins, CO, US

Year founded

1870

Social media