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Wildlife Inspector Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

CO · On-site

$22/hr

Colorado Parks and Wildlife. Description of Job Position will be responsible for oversight of ... Area lead will assist with recruitment, interviewing and hiring of watercraft inspection ...

CO · On-site

$22/hr

Colorado Parks and Wildlife. Description of Job Position will be responsible for oversight of ... Area lead will assist with recruitment, interviewing and hiring of watercraft inspection ...

CO · On-site

$18 - $19/hr

COLORADO PARKS AND WILDLIFE (CPW) Our Mission is to perpetuate the wildlife resources of the state ... Perform boat inspector and decontaminator responsibilities according to state regulations and ...

CO · On-site

$18 - $19/hr

COLORADO PARKS AND WILDLIFE (CPW) Our Mission is to perpetuate the wildlife resources of the state ... Perform boat inspector and decontaminator responsibilities according to state regulations and ...

CO

$19 - $20/hr

Colorado Parks and Wildlife. Description of Job This Posting is for both LEAD and GENERAL ... Perform boat inspector and decontaminator responsibilities according to state regulations and ...

CO

$19 - $20/hr

Colorado Parks and Wildlife. Description of Job This Posting is for both LEAD and GENERAL ... Perform boat inspector and decontaminator responsibilities according to state regulations and ...

CO · On-site

$19/hr

COLORADO PARKS AND WILDLIFE (CPW) Our Mission is to perpetuate the wildlife resources of the state ... Perform boat inspector and decontaminator responsibilities according to state regulations and ...

CO · On-site

$19/hr

COLORADO PARKS AND WILDLIFE (CPW) Our Mission is to perpetuate the wildlife resources of the state ... Perform boat inspector and decontaminator responsibilities according to state regulations and ...

CO · On-site

$19/hr

COLORADO PARKS AND WILDLIFE (CPW) Our Mission is to perpetuate the wildlife resources of the state ... Perform boat inspector and decontaminator responsibilities according to state regulations and ...

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Showing results 1-20

Wildlife Inspector information

See Colorado salary details

$9

$24

$41

How much do wildlife inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for wildlife inspector in Colorado is $24.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.52 and $32.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a wildlife inspector?

Wildlife inspectors are law enforcement professionals who monitor the import and export of wildlife, plants, and their products to ensure compliance with national and international laws. Their primary responsibility is to prevent illegal trafficking of endangered species, protect biodiversity, and enforce regulations such as the Endangered Species Act and CITES. They inspect shipments at ports, airports, and border crossings, examine permits, and sometimes investigate suspected violations. Wildlife inspectors play a critical role in combating wildlife crime and preserving ecological integrity.

What are some common challenges faced by wildlife inspectors during inspections at ports of entry?

Wildlife Inspectors often encounter challenges such as identifying illegally trafficked species that may be concealed or misdeclared, working in fast-paced environments with strict deadlines, and interpreting complex international regulations. They must remain vigilant for sophisticated smuggling techniques and ensure accurate documentation while coordinating with customs officials and other agencies. These challenges require strong attention to detail, adaptability, and a solid understanding of wildlife laws and species identification.

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

To thrive as a Wildlife Inspector, you need knowledge of wildlife laws, species identification, and investigative techniques, typically supported by a degree in biology, environmental science, or a related field. Familiarity with inspection tools, evidence collection protocols, and database management systems is commonly required. Attention to detail, integrity, and strong communication skills help inspectors build cases and interact with the public and law enforcement partners. These skills and qualities are crucial to effectively enforce wildlife protection laws and prevent illegal trade in wildlife.

What is the difference between Wildlife Inspector vs Fish and Game Warden?

AspectWildlife InspectorFish and Game Warden
Required CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma or equivalent; some roles may need specialized training or certifications in wildlife or environmental scienceRequires a high school diploma or equivalent; often requires law enforcement training and state-specific wildlife enforcement certifications
Work EnvironmentInspects wildlife products, enforces regulations at ports, borders, or processing facilitiesPatrols outdoor areas, enforces hunting, fishing, and wildlife laws
Employer & IndustryFederal, state, or local agencies involved in wildlife regulation and tradeState wildlife agencies, law enforcement agencies

Wildlife Inspectors focus on regulating and inspecting wildlife trade and ensuring compliance with laws, often working at borders or processing facilities. Fish and Game Wardens primarily enforce hunting, fishing, and wildlife laws in outdoor settings. Both roles require knowledge of wildlife regulations but differ in work environment and specific duties.

What job categories do people searching Wildlife Inspector jobs in Colorado look for?

The top searched job categories for Wildlife Inspector jobs in Colorado are:

Infographic showing various Wildlife Inspector job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $50,208 per year, or $24.1 per hour.

Regional Inspection Lead - Arkansas River Watercraft Inspector & Decontaminator

State of Colorado

Salida, CO • On-site

$20.50/hr

Full-time, Temporary

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


State Of Colorado rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 97 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

36th of 50 rated states


Job description

Regional Inspection Lead – Arkansas River Watercraft Inspector & Decontaminator

Apply

Salary

$20.50 Hourly

Location

Salida, CO

Job Type

Temporary (9 months or less)

Job Number

2026TEMP- PMA096

Department

Department of Natural Resources

Division

Colorado Parks & Wildlife

Opening Date

01/16/2026

Closing Date

Continuous

FLSA

Determined by Position

Primary Physical Work Address

Salida, CO 81201, USA

FLSA Status

Non-Exempt; position is eligible for overtime compensation.

Department Contact Information

dnr_hr_employeetransactions@state.co.us

Type of Announcement

This is a temporary position. Applications will be considered from residents and non-residents of Colorado.

How To Apply

Please submit an online application for this position at https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/colorado. Reach out to the Department Contact to apply using a paper application, including any supplemental questions. Failure to submit a complete and timely application may result in the rejection of your application. Applicants are responsible for ensuring that application materials are received by the appropriate Human Resources office before the closing date and time listed.

  • Description
  • Benefits

Department Information

THIS IS A TEMPORARY POSITION (9 MONTHS OR LESS) - PAYING $20.50 PER HOUR

EMPLOYMENT STARTS 03/17/2026 THROUGH 12/05/2026.

To apply, please submit only your application (without attachments such as resumes or cover letters). This announcement will remain open until FILLED. You are encouraged to apply early.

The mission of the Colorado Department of Natural Resources (https://cdnr.us/Pages/DNRDefault.aspx#/start) is to develop, preserve, and enhance the state's natural resources for the benefit and enjoyment of current and future citizens and visitors. In an effort to build diversity and inclusion we welcome applications from people of diverse backgrounds and abilities.COLORADO PARKS AND WILDLIFE (CPW) Our Mission is to perpetuate the wildlife resources of the state, to provide a quality state parks system, and to provide enjoyable and sustainable outdoor recreation opportunities that educate and inspire current and future generations to serve as active stewards of Colorado's natural resources.Colorado Parks and Wildlife. (http://cpw.state.co.us/)

Description of Job

Position will be responsible for oversight of watercraft inspection & decontamination stations at throughout the Arkansas Valley and southeast Colorado. Area lead will assist with recruitment, interviewing and hiring of watercraft inspection & decontamination staff. Position will obtain state certification to provide standardized hands-on watercraftinspection & decontamination training and will be responsible for providing on the job training to inspection staff.Position will work with ramp leads to create work schedules and ensure all shifts are covered during operational hours, collect and verify accurate time keeping records for payroll purposes, and submit payroll to ANS Program Office.Position will work with ramp leads to resolve challenges with staff and customers, and recommend hiring/firing of employees to project lead. Position will ensure stations are equipped with all necessary equipment to perform job duties and will communicate needs with the ANS Program Office. Additional responsibilities include ensuringinspection station staff are following standardized protocols by performing quality control assessments on a monthly basis, ensure that data entry is being performed accurately and completely by all inspection station staff, maintain inventory of all required supplies, perform basic maintenance & troubleshooting on power washer/decontaminationunit, and provide public outreach on aquatic invasive species. Position will participate in regular meetings with ANS program office staff & fellow WID supervisors and will clearly communicate status of work at their assigned locations.Position will work closely with ANS program office staff to creatively resolve any problems that may arise. Early morning, evening, and weekend work is required.

Minimum Qualifications, Substitutions, Conditions of Employment & Appeal Rights

BASIC REQUIREMENTS:

· Minimum 1 year of experience working in the field of ANS or Invasive Species.

· Current (Stage II) Certification in Watercraft Inspection and Decontamination.

· Experience performing boat inspections and decontaminations.

· Experience working with the public in a customer service related field.

· Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

· Outstanding public speaking and presentation skills.

· Excellent driving record and ability to work weekends, early mornings and evenings.

· Ability to travel and be away from home every week if needed.

  • Employee may be required to camp in rustic settings and must provide own camping equipment and gear when performing biological field work.

PREFERRED EDUCATION: Bachelors Degree in Biological Sciences or comparable work experience.

Pursuant to the DNR-120 Fleet and Driving Standards Administrative Directive (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1W0g2QAGmusbXBJzL3HxhGitIZOEKnwhrFnx9GqVcQHA/preview?tab=t.0) , any worker who will be expected to drive a State-owned vehicle is responsible for maintaining a safe driving record and a valid driver license prior to driving any State-owned vehicle.

To be compliant with the new fleet vehicle policy, Motor Vehicle Records (MVRs) will be pulled for review for workers who:

  • Have an assigned State fleet vehicle
  • Are required to operate a vehicle as part of the position
  • Utilize a State fleet vehicle as a pool vehicle

Supplemental Information

The State of Colorado believes that equity, diversity, and inclusion drive our success, and we encourage candidates from all identities, backgrounds, and abilities to apply. The State of Colorado is an equal opportunity employer committed to building inclusive, innovative work environments with employees who reflect our communities and enthusiastically serve them. Therefore, in all aspects of the employment process, we provide employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, medical condition related to pregnancy, creed, ancestry, national origin, marital status, genetic information, or military status (with preference given to military veterans), or any other protected status in accordance with applicable law. The Department of Natural Resources is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals. As part of this commitment, our agency will assist individuals who have a disability with any reasonable accommodation requests related to employment, including completing the application process, interviewing, completing any pre-employment testing, participating in the employee selection process, and/or to perform essential job functions where the requested accommodation does not impose an undue hardship. If you have a disability and require reasonable accommodation to ensure you have a positive experience applying or interviewing for this position, please direct your inquiries to our ADAAA Coordinator at dnr_hr_employeebenefits@state.co.us. ADAAA Accommodations Any person with a disability as defined by the ADA Amendments Act of 2008 (ADAAA) may be provided a reasonable accommodation upon request to enable the person to complete an employment assessment. To request an accommodation, please contact dnr_hr_employeebenefits@state.co.us. at least five business days before the date that any accommodation will be required to allow us to evaluate your request and prepare for the accommodation. You may be asked to provide additional information, including medical documentation, regarding functional limitations and type of accommodation needed. Please ensure that you have this information available well in advance of the assessment date.E-Verify employer:The Department of Natural Resources participates inE-Verify (https://secure.neogov.com/images/AgencyImages/jobposting/2027/jobpostings/image/E-Verify_Participating_Employer.jpg) in accordance with the program'sRight to Work (https://secure.neogov.com/images/AgencyImages/jobposting/2027/jobpostings/image/ier_righttoworkposter-%20jpeg(1).jpg) for all newly-hired employees. Employees are queried through the electronic system established by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Social Security Administration (SSA) to verify identity and employment eligibility. You may complete section 1 of the I-9 form upon your acceptance of a job offer letter, but no later than your first day of employment and in addition, on your first day, but no later than the third day, you are required to submit original documents to verify your eligibility to work in the U.S.Learn more (https://www.e-verify.gov/) about E-Verify, including your rights and responsibilities.Toll–Free Applicant Support - Technical HelpIf you experience technical difficulty with the NEOGOV system (e.g. uploading or attaching documents to your online application) call NEOGOV at 855-524-5627, Mon-Fri between 6 am and 6 pm (Pacific Time). Helpful hints: if you are having difficulty uploading or attaching documents to your application first, ensure your documents are PDF or Microsoft Word files and second, close the document before you attempt upload (attach) it.The Human Resources Office will be unable to assist with these types of technical issues.

Employer

State of Colorado

Address

See the full announcement by clickingthe "Printer" icon located above the job titleLocation varies by announcement, Colorado, --

Website

https://careers.colorado.gov/


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