Burn Area Restoration Implementation Leader

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Altar Valley Conservation Alliance
Location: Imperial National Wildlife Refuge – Yuma, AZ
Application Deadline: October 9, 2026, or until filled
Start Date: October 19, 2026 (flexible)
Duration: 12 months
Schedule: Full-time | 40 hours/week
Pay: $24.18/hour

The Altar Valley Conservation Alliance, in partnership with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), is seeking a Burn Area Restoration Implementation Leader to support habitat rehabilitation and revegetation at Imperial National Wildlife Refuge, approximately 40 miles northeast of Yuma.

The position will support the Refuge Burned Area Rehabilitation (BAR) Project, which aims to restore cottonwood/willow and desert thornscrub habitat lost during a May 2024 wildfire. The Implementation Leader will also serve as the on-site operational lead for a two-person restoration team.

Primary Duties

  • Assist with habitat restoration and rehabilitation activities, including planting seedlings, broadcast seeding, erosion control, and irrigation
  • Cut trees and brush using gas-powered and heavy equipment
  • Conduct invasive species management using mechanical and chemical methods
  • Operate 4WD trucks, ATV/UTVs, skid steers, farm tractors, and backhoes (training provided)
  • Maintain accurate project records, maps, and other documentation
  • Assist with project planning and annual reporting
  • Support wildlife surveys and habitat monitoring
  • Serve as the on-site operational lead for the restoration team

Qualifications

Applicants should be comfortable working independently and as part of a team in remote and physically demanding field conditions. The position requires the ability to work outdoors in heat, cold, wet, dry, and dusty conditions; walk over uneven terrain; and lift and carry up to 40 pounds.

Preferred qualifications include:

  • Education or experience in wildlife biology, natural resource management, forestry, environmental studies, or a related field
  • Field-based wildlife or habitat management experience
  • ArcGIS experience
  • Experience or willingness to work with herbicides
  • Interest in habitat restoration and the mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

A valid driver’s license and insurable driving record are required. Due to the remote location of the refuge, applicants must also have a personal vehicle for use outside of work hours.

Benefits

  • $24.18/hour
  • 11 paid federal holidays
  • Private room in the refuge bunkhouse available at no cost, with shared common areas
  • Training provided for applicable vehicles and equipment

How to Apply

Submit the following in a single PDF:

  • Resume describing your work history in detail
  • Three references

Email application materials to Annalily Lopez at annalily_lopez@fws.gov.

Applications are due October 9, 2026, or until the position is filled. Interviews will be conducted on a rolling basis.