1

Desert Tortoise Biologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

For the Desert Tortoise Field Biologist position, we anticipate the annual base pay of $73,148 - $82,290, $35.16/hr - $39.56/hr, limited-term, non-exempt. An employee's pay position within this range ...

Irwin. This is a authorized Biologist role, ideal for individuals who thrive in hands on ... Experience with Mojave Desert Tortoise * Experience with construction monitoring and/or conducting ...

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.

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.

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.

Project Biologist

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$62K - $90K/yr

Your Opportunity Stantec is seeking a consulting biologist with a minimum of 2 to 5 years of ... and/or desert tortoise will be considered a plus. * Possession of a California Scientific ...

As a Project Biologist with Stantec, you will work in a highly dynamic team environment with other ... and/or desert tortoise will be considered a plus. * Possession of a California Scientific ...

As a Project Biologist with Stantec, you will work in a highly dynamic team environment with other ... and/or desert tortoise will be considered a plus. * Possession of a California Scientific ...

As a Project Biologist with Stantec, you will work in a highly dynamic team environment with other ... and/or desert tortoise will be considered a plus. * Possession of a California Scientific ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Desert Tortoise Biologist information

See salary details

$37K

$89.4K

$138K

How much do desert tortoise biologist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for desert tortoise biologist in the United States is $89,403.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,500.00 and $121,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest paying wildlife biology job?

In wildlife biology, senior roles such as wildlife managers, conservation directors, or research scientists tend to have the highest salaries, often exceeding $80,000 annually. Specialized positions that require advanced degrees, fieldwork expertise, and sometimes management responsibilities typically offer higher compensation within the field.

What is a Desert Tortoise Biologist job?

A Desert Tortoise Biologist studies, monitors, and protects desert tortoise populations, primarily in arid regions like the Mojave and Sonoran Deserts. They conduct field surveys, track tortoise movements, assess habitat conditions, and ensure compliance with environmental regulations. Their work often supports conservation efforts, research studies, and land management planning. They may collaborate with government agencies, environmental organizations, and researchers to develop strategies for species protection. This role requires knowledge of ecology, wildlife biology, and regulatory guidelines related to endangered species.

How much do desert tortoise biologist make?

Desert tortoise biologists typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced professionals with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher salaries. Fieldwork and research roles often require knowledge of ecology and conservation tools.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Desert Tortoise Biologist position, and why are they important?

Desert Tortoise Biologists require a solid background in wildlife biology, ecology, and field research methods, often supported by a degree in biology, ecology, or a related field. Experience with GPS, GIS software, radio telemetry, and relevant permits such as Section 10(a)(1)(A) authorization for handling protected species is highly valuable. Strong observation skills, attention to detail, and the ability to collaborate well with multidisciplinary teams help biologists excel in both independent fieldwork and group projects. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring accurate data collection, regulatory compliance, and successful conservation of the desert tortoise.

Is wildlife biology in high demand?

Wildlife biology, including roles like desert tortoise biologists, is generally in moderate demand, especially for conservation and research positions. Job opportunities often depend on government agencies, environmental organizations, and research institutions, with skills in fieldwork, data analysis, and environmental regulations being valuable. Competition can be high, and advanced degrees or certifications may improve prospects.

What are the authorized biologist requirements for desert tortoise?

Authorized desert tortoise biologists typically need a combination of education in biology or ecology, relevant field experience, and certification in desert tortoise handling and survey techniques. They must also adhere to state and federal regulations, including permits for handling and working with protected species, and often require training in species identification and data collection methods.

What does a typical day look like for a Desert Tortoise Biologist?

A typical day for a Desert Tortoise Biologist often involves extensive fieldwork, such as conducting population surveys, tracking tortoise movements, and monitoring habitats, sometimes in remote desert locations. You may spend time collecting data, recording observations, and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations, as well as caring for tortoises during research activities. When not in the field, the role includes tasks like analyzing data, preparing reports, and collaborating with environmental consultants, agencies, or conservation partners to develop management plans. This balance of outdoor and office work provides a dynamic schedule and the opportunity to make a direct impact on species preservation.

What cities are hiring for Desert Tortoise Biologist jobs? Cities with the most Desert Tortoise Biologist job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Desert Tortoise Biologist jobs? The most popular types of Desert Tortoise Biologist jobs are:
What states have the most Desert Tortoise Biologist jobs? States with the most job openings for Desert Tortoise Biologist jobs include:
Infographic showing various Desert Tortoise Biologist job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% Locum Tenens, 76% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 4% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,403 per year, or $43 per hour.
Desert Tortoise Authorized Biologist

Desert Tortoise Authorized Biologist

Colorado State University

Lancaster, CA • On-site

Part-time

Posted 8 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

442nd of 560 rated colleges and universities


Job description


Position Summary:
Multiple Desert Tortoise Natural Resource Specialist positions are available to be hired for an ongoing, multi-year project on Edwards Air Force Base (EAFB). Positions are hourly, as-needed, and expected to be less than 120 hours over the course of 9 months. Individuals hired are not guaranteed a set schedule. Schedules will be coordinated with both CEMML and DoD staff. Individuals will be hired based on project needs and candidate experience and expertise. Scheduling of field activities may occur several months to only a few days in advance. This posting will be used to fill desert tortoise Authorized Biologist positions. We are also seeking individuals able to perform the duties of a desert tortoise Monitors (less experience required), please apply to that position separately if you do not meet the qualifications for an Authorized Biologist.
Full Consideration Date:
Applications will be accepted and positions filled on a rolling basis.
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/.
Location:
The Edwards AFB-based CEMML team employs wildlife, vegetation, and restoration specialists that support the Air Force mission. Our projects include vegetation surveys, sensitive habitat management, nuisance wildlife response, and other wildlife projects that involve small and large mammals, raptors and migratory birds, reptiles and amphibians.
Essential Job Duties:
Desert Tortoise Natural Resources Specialists will primarily support the Mojave Desert tortoise compliance and monitoring program on Edwards Air Force Base. Field work will be the primary duty for these positions. Work will consist of pre-and post-activity surveys for desert tortoise and their sign, communication with project proponents to ensure compliance with minimization measures, coordination with multiple parties to schedule surveys, post-field reporting and data entry. Support for other natural resource projects may occur as needed. The CEMML team at Edwards AFB operates entirely on military lands, as a result, field work may be cancelled with little notice due to military activities.
Conditions of Employment:
Must have a valid driver's license and be legally authorized to work in the United States.
Supervision:
This position will not supervise other employees.
Minimum Qualifications:
  • The candidate must have the experience and training necessary to be approved as a desert tortoise Authorized Biologist by the US Fish and Wildlife Service. This generally requires significant and recent experience handling and surveying for wild desert tortoises. Note: CEMML will facilitate the actual review and approval process with the US Fish and Wildlife Service for the candidate. Please contact us to request a blank application form if you have not previously been authorized. All offers for the Authorized Biologist position are contingent on USFWS approval

  • Ability to work in challenging field conditions (heat, cold, carrying heavy equipment, ability to walk long distances)

  • Demonstrated adaptability to field work related issues (health and safety conscious and able to perform equipment troubleshooting)

  • 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.

Desired Qualifications:
  • Previous experience as a Desert Tortoise Monitor or Authorized Biologist

  • Previous experience with on-site environmental compliance and construction monitoring, specifically related to desert tortoise

Applicant Instructions:
Applications will be accepted and positions filled on a rolling basis. 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 Mojave ecosystem work, any experience working within the Department of Defense (with particular emphasis on support at Edwards AFB), how you meet the Minimum Qualifications, why you are applying for the position, and confirmation that you understand this is a part-time as-needed position.

Point of contact for any inquiries:
Christina Herron-Sweet, Wildlife/Technical Lead christina.herron-sweet@colostate.edu
Alison Haigh, Wildlife Biologist alison.haigh@colostate.edu
Salary Range
$50-70/hour
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, Special Required Documentation
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.
  • Explore the additional perks of working at CSU here.
  • For the total value of CSU benefits in addition to wages, use our 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.

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