Salary : $64,908.00 - $103,848.00 Annually
Location : Rio Grande County, CO
Job Type: Full Time
Job Number: PMA 32209 05/26
Department: Department of Natural Resources
Division: Colorado Parks & Wildlife
Opening Date: 05/26/2026
Closing Date: 6/8/2026 11:59 PM Mountain
FLSA: Determined by Position
Type of Announcement: This position is open only to Colorado state residents.
Primary Physical Work Address: 0722 South Road 1 East, Monte Vista, CO 81144
FLSA Status: Exempt; position is not eligible for overtime compensation.
Department Contact Information: Patrick Warnes [click to reveal email address]patrick.warnes@state.co.us
Salary Note: Although the full salary range for this position is provided, appointments are typically made at or near the range minimum.
Hiring Pay Rate: Please note that all employees new to the State Personnel System are paid on a bi-weekly basis.
How To Apply: Please submit an online application for this position at [click to reveal website link]. 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.

Department Information
This posting is only open to residents of the State of Colorado at the time of submitting your application.
Consider joining the dedicated people of the Colorado Department of Natural Resources. It's our mission to manage and conserve Colorado's natural resources for the benefit of people today - and tomorrow. That means we have to balance development with conservation so the state we all love provides similar opportunities for our children and their children.

We invite you to explore our website at to find out more about the work we do to manage Colorado's natural resources for today - and tomorrow.

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.

In addition to offering rewarding, meaningful work, we offer:

Medical and Dental plans
Strong, flexible retirement plans including PERA Defined Benefit Plan or PERA Defined Contribution Plan, plus pre-tax and Roth 401K and 457 plans
Paid life insurance
Short- and long-term disability coverage
Employee Wellness programs
Flexible Spending Accounts
Health Savings Accounts
11 paid holidays per year plus generous vacation and sick leave
Flexible work schedule options and remote-work options
Career advancement opportunities throughout the State system
Some positions may qualify for the

COLORADO PARKS AND WILDLIFEOur 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.
The purpose of the work unit is to gather, evaluate and summarize data and observations on terrestrial wildlife and habitat resources. This work unit develops and participates in the implementation of recommendations consistent with CPW's Strategic Plan, State Wildlife Action Plan, other pertinent federal and state planning documents, and direction provided by the Colorado Parks and Wildlife Commission for the wise stewardship of wildlife populations and habitat in western Colorado.

Description of Job
This position serves within CPW's Terrestrial Species Conservation Section as an Area Wildlife Biologist (WM lll), based out of the Monte Vista Service Center/Area 17. This position formulates recommendations and management options for management of wildlife species and habitats through the collection and analysis of pertinent wildlife data and observations as required by the operational and annual work plans. This position also exists to design, implement and evaluate wildlife population monitoring studies and population inventories in the assigned area. Specific tasks include population inventory, modeling, and monitoring of various terrestrial species, as well as the development and execution of various operational and implementation plans to manage wildlife populations and conserve/improve habitats on public and private lands. Customer service and collaboration with other CPW staff, the public, external stakeholders, private landowners, and various land management agencies is also integral to this position.

Specific duties include, but are not limited to:

Wildlife Management Recommendations

Formulates and presents wildlife management recommendations to CPW staff and external partners by collecting, compiling, analyzing, and interpreting biological data using a structured system of discussions, meetings and written reports. Provides support in the form of data, reports, and comments to other CPW employees. Provides biological expertise through review of internal and external plans, environmental statements and other decision documents. Recognized as a wildlife expert for the local area, both within and outside CPW.

Wildlife and Habitat Inventories

Develop, plan and conduct wildlife and habitat inventories to guide local wildlife and habitat management decisions. Collect and analyze data to compile reports on wildlife abundance, demographics and distribution and/or habitat quantity and quality.
Maintain Wildlife Populations by minimizing or mitigating impacts

Minimizes or mitigates impacts on wildlife and their habitats by providing biological expertise in the review and analysis of environmental statements, natural resource plans, and other decision documents proposed by other state, federal or local agencies, local municipalities, private companies and landowners. Collaborates with other CPW work units to accomplish agency goals and objectives.

Wildlife Management and Habitat Studies

Conducts or participates in wildlife and habitat management studies to gather biological data by planning studies, capturing, marking, monitoring wildlife populations and habitat, analyzing and interpreting results, completing reports, and delivering presentations. Collaborates with other CPW work units to accomplish agency goals and objectives.

Wildlife Habitat Management

Work with CPW Habitat Unit staff, Field Operations staff, and other CPW work units to develop habitat management programs and plans. Work with CPW procurement staff on contracts to implement habitat management plans on State Wildlife Areas, other public lands, and private lands.
Wildlife Population Management

Employs computer-based wildlife population models by interpretation and manipulation of data obtained from wildlife inventories, hunter harvest data, other field observations, and research results.
Develop and Implement Wildlife and Habitat Management Plans

Formulates management plans by compiling data, soliciting public and agency comments, negotiating options, analyzing results and writing final plans. Implements or adapts existing plans or programs to meet wildlife and habitat conservation objectives.
Educate and Inform the Public

Educates and informs the public on all facets of wildlife and habitat management through dissemination of wildlife information to hunters, wildlife constituents, schools, and public media including newspapers and radio/television.

Other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications, Substitutions, Conditions of Employment & Appeal Rights

Minimum Qualifications
Six (6) years of relevant experience in professional level experience in Wildlife Research, Wildlife Management, Conservation Biology, or other related fields.
OR
A combination of related education in, biology, environmental science, fisheries/wildlife biology, conservation biology, wildlife management, zoology, ecology, ichthyology, or another closely related science-based or biology-based degree and/or a minimum of two (2) years professional experience in wildlife research, wildlife management, wildlife biology, conservation biology, natural resources management, or related field is required. equal to six (6) years.

Job Class:

Preferred Qualifications

Current or former Colorado Parks and Wildlife work or volunteer experience.
Previous experience working with species of conservation concern.
Professional level writing, research, and communication skills.
Experience with GIS software.
An understanding of local, state, and federal conservation planning and rulemaking processes.
Ability to operate ATVs/side-by-sides.
Experience facilitating meetings.
Familiarity with the flora and fauna of western Colorado.
Ability to work collaboratively or in a team environment.
A Master's degree in wildlife biology, conservation biology, natural resources, or related field.

Required Competencies

Strong written and oral communication skills.
Excellent organization and time management skills with the ability to prioritize work across multiple projects.
Ability to work independently and in challenging outdoor environments.
Ability to safely operate 4WD vehicles.

Conditions of Employment

This posting is only open to residents of the State of Colorado at the time of submitting your application.
Travel required approximately 12 nights per year.
Former State employees who were disciplinarily terminated or resigned in lieu of termination must disclose the information on the application and provide an explanation why the prior termination or resignation should not disqualify their application from the current position. (Please Note: Absent extraordinary circumstances, prior disciplinary termination or resignation in lieu of termination will disqualify the applicant from future State employment with DNR).
Pursuant to the DNR-120 Fleet and Driving Standards Administrative Directive, 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

APPEAL RIGHTS:
It is recommended that you contact the Human Resources Specialist listed below to resolve issues related to your possession of minimum qualifications. However, if you receive notice that you have been eliminated from consideration for this position, you may file an appeal with the State Personnel Board or request a review by the State Personnel Director.
An appeal or review must be submitted on the official appeal form, signed by you or your representative. This form must be delivered to the State Personnel Board by email ([click to reveal email address]dpa_state.personnelboard@state.co.us), postmarked in US Mail or hand delivered (1525 Sherman Street, 4th Floor, Denver CO 80203), or faxed [click to reveal phone number](303.866.5038) within ten (10) calendar days from your receipt of notice or acknowledgement of the department's action.
For more information about the appeals process, the official appeal form, and how to deliver it to the State Personnel Board; go to spb.colorado.gov; contact the State Personnel Board for assistance at [click to reveal phone number](303) 866-3300; or refer to 4 Colorado Code of Regulations (CCR) 801-1, State Personnel Board Rules and Personnel Director's Administrative Procedures, Chapter 8, Resolution of Appeals and Disputes, at spb.colorado.gov under Rules.

Supplemental Information
The Assessment Process

All applications received by the closing of this announcement will be reviewed by an HR Specialist against the Minimum Qualifications in this announcement.
Colorado Revised Statutes require that state employees are hired and promoted based on merit and fitness through a comparative analysis process. Part of, or all of, the comparative analysis for this position will be a structured application review by Subject Matter Experts.
Resumes, cover letters and other attachments are not considered as part of initial reviews, therefore, it is important to document in your application your education, experience, minimum qualifications, and preferred qualifications as outlined in the job announcement
Please thoroughly answer all supplemental questions (if listed) since question responses may be evaluated for content, writing ability, spelling, grammar, and effective communication.
This recruitment may involve additional testing and/or exams to arrive at the top group for interviews.
This recruitment may hire multiple vacancies at the same reporting level.

The State of Colorado strives to create a Colorado for All by building and maintaining workplaces that value and respect all Coloradans through a commitment to equal opportunity and hiring based on merit and fitness. The State is resolute in non-discriminatory practices in everything we do, including hiring, employment, and advancement opportunities. We are committed to increasing a "Colorado for ALL" of our staff and providing culturally responsive programs and services. Therefore, we encourage responses from people of all backgrounds and abilities. The State of Colorado believes that a "Colorado for ALL" drives 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.. 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 [click to reveal email address]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 accommodation, please contact our Benefits Specialist at [click to reveal email address]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

DNR uses e-Verify, an Internet-based system, to confirm the eligibility of all newly hired employees to work in the United States. Learn more about E-Verify, including your rights and responsibilities.
Toll-Free Applicant Support - Technical Help

If you experience technical difficulty with the NEOGOV system (e.g. uploading or attaching documents to your online application) call NEOGOV at [click to reveal phone number]855-524-5627, Mon-Fri between 6 am and 6 pm (Pacific Time). The Human Resources Office will be unable to assist with technical issues.
The State of Colorado offers permanent employees a variety of benefits including medical, dental, life and disability insurance, as well as a comprehensive leave program. Please click the following link for detailed information:

Please note that each agency's contact information is different; therefore, we encourage all applicants to view the full, official job announcement which includes contact information and class title. Select the job you wish to view, then click on the "Print" icon.
01

All applications received by the closing of this announcement will be reviewed by an HR Specialist against the Minimum Qualifications in this announcement. Colorado Revised Statutes require that state employees are hired and promoted based on merit and fitness through a comparative analysis process. Part of, or all of, the comparative analysis for this position will be a structured application review by Subject Matter Experts. Resumes, cover letters and other attachments are not considered as part of initial reviews, therefore, it is important to document in your application your education, experience, minimum qualifications, and preferred qualifications as outlined in the job announcement. Please thoroughly answer all supplemental questions since responses may be evaluated for content, writing ability, spelling, grammar, and effective communication. This recruitment may involve additional testing and/or exams to arrive at the top group for interviews.

I acknowledge this receipt of this notice.

DNR 2 - Current and former State Personnel System employees who were disciplinarily terminated, resigned in lieu of termination, or who were deemed to have resigned without notice (Board Rule 7-5, Automatic Resignation) must disclose this information on the application.

I am not a current or former State of Colorado classified employee.
I am a current or former State of Colorado employee but have NEVER been disciplinarily terminated, resigned in lieu of termination, or deemed to have resigned without notice (Board Rule 7-5, Automatic Resignation).
I am a current or former State of Colorado employee and have been disciplinarily terminated, resigned in lieu of termination, or deemed to have resigned without notice (Board Rule 7-5, Automatic Resignation). NOTE: Failure to disclose this information and/or falsification of Application materials may result in being removed from consideration for this position.

DNR 3 - If you are using education to meet or substitute for qualifications, did you upload a copy of your official or unofficial transcript? (Your transcript is required as verification that you meet the requirements).

Yes, I have attached my transcripts.
No, I am not using college course work to meet minimum requirements for this position.
Not Applicable

DNR 4 - Did you upload your résumé and cover letter to this on-line application?

DNR 5 - Part, or all, of the assessment for this position involves a review of the information you submit in your application materials. Please verify that you understand that the failure to include adequate information or attachments to your job application may affect your final score and/or prevent you from competing in any subsequent measures used to arrive at a top group of applicants.

DNR 6 -The Colorado Constitution, Article XII, Section 13 requires that APPLICANTS for state classified government jobs be residents of Colorado at the time of application, unless this requirement is waived by the State Personnel Board (DPA). A residency waiver was not issued by DPA for this announcement. For more information, please see the FAQ's at: [click to reveal website link]. Are you a current Colorado resident?

DNR 2a - Former State employees who were disciplinarily terminated or resigned in lieu of termination must disclose this information on the application. In the space below, please provide an explanation as to why the prior termination or resignation should NOT disqualify you application from the current position:
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Please briefly describe your work experience and proficiency with GIS, R, radio collar data and programs, data analysis, and report writing.
09

Please describe your experience with internal and external stakeholder coordination.
10

Please describe why you are interested in being a biologist for Colorado Parks and Wildlife.
11

I acknowledge this receipt of this notice.

Required Question

CPW Area Wildlife Biologist (WILDLIFE MANAGER III) - Monte Vista, CO/Area 17

CPW Area Wildlife Biologist (WILDLIFE MANAGER III) - Monte Vista, CO/Area 17

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