CEMML (Center for Environmental Management of Military Lands) 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 (DoD) 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.
To learn more about CEMML’s contributions to land management, our mission, vision, and values, visit http://www.cemml.colostate.edu/
A Marine Mammal Biologist position is available with Colorado State University and the Center for Environmental Management of Military Lands to be located at Vandenberg Space Force Base (VSFB).
The successful candidate will serve as a Marine Mammal Biologist who will support VSFB and CEMML by monitoring and assessing the VSFB coastal populations of marine mammals. Pinnipeds (seals and sea lions) are the primary species to be monitored. The primary objective is to assess the populations for potential adverse impacts of rocket launches. All work will follow protocols and requirements in compliance with several Letters of Authorization (LOAs) from the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS). Monitoring and assessment occur via two key methods: 1) annual population trend analysis, accomplished by 10-12 surveys conducted monthly, and 2) monitoring of individual rocket launches. VSFB is preparing for a significant increase in launch frequency and, as such, additional marine mammal monitoring support is required.
In addition to pinnipeds, the Marine Mammal Biologist will be required to conduct surveys for sea otters. These have historically been completed by state of California or US Geological Survey biologists but will now be completed by the CEMML Marine Mammal Biologist. Methodology and protocols will follow what has been used by previous biologists.
Expected Tasks:
- Twice per month, conduct pedestrian surveys of key pinniped haul-outs on both North and South VSFB. Three sites in the north (LF-06, Lion Head, South Spur Road) and 6 sites in the south (Harbor, Small Haul-Out 2, Harbor Seal Beach, Amphitheater, South Rocky Point, North Rocky Point) shall be surveyed biweekly.
- These should, when possible, be scheduled in conjunction with afternoon low tides.
- If necessary, permits are obtained, aerial photography from UAVs would be allowed and encouraged, especially for Rocky Point.
- High powered binoculars and spotting scopes shall be used.
- North base surveys can be conducted by an individual; South base surveys should be completed by two individuals, for safety purposes. In the attached IGE, this is calculated as 84 six-hour days (12 solo days, north base; 12 two-person days for sea otters, 24 two-person days for south base pinnipeds), plus 36 hours annually for reporting).
- Once per month, survey Purisima Point (and south to Spur Road or Wall Beach), Harbor and Sudden Flats for Southern Sea otters.
- Informally report findings monthly, with more formal reports quarterly and a detailed annual report (no later than 30 January for the year concluding 31 December).
- Acoustic recording of as many as 15% of launches through the year (note: individual launch proponents will be required to monitor at least the first three launches of any new rocket type or from any new launch facility).
- As technology improves, contractor shall investigate and field test survey techniques during night and other low-light conditions.
- Other tasks and duties may be assigned to support other CEMML program areas at VSFB.
Reporting requirements:
No later than 30 January of each year, a written report must summarize results of all surveys, including statistical trends. The report shall be in standard scientific reporting format, to include Executive Summary, Introduction, Methods and Materials, Results, Discussion and Literature Cited. The report should also include Management Recommendations and any changes recommended to methodology.
VSFB is approximately 100,000 acres of land that is spread across North Base and South Base. This position will carry a large amount of responsibility to ensure all appropriate and accepted methodologies are being followed, work is being completed within a reasonable timeframe, and to coordinate directly with the Natural Resource manager at VSFB. This position is supervised by the CEMML Lead Wildlife Biologist at VSFB.
Field work will require traversing a beautiful, variable, steep, and difficult landscape. There is poison oak found in many drainages on VSFB. Personal Protective Equipment will be provided to manage poison oak risks, if the Marine Mammal Biologist is required to work in those habitats. There are many Threatened and Endangered species (flora and fauna) found on VSFB that will need to be respected. A capable field vehicle and proper rescue equipment will be provided. The landscape at VSFB is varied and beautiful. It is a privilege to explore and survey the terrain on this gorgeous military installation.
Office work will include sitting at a desk for long hours to: manage monitoring data; analyze trends of marine mammal data; write annual summary reports; coordinate with CEMML, VSFB, and contractor natural resource staff; and support routine reporting for the Cooperative Agreement between CEMML and VSFB.
Colorado State University offers a generous benefits package including 24 days of paid vacation leave, tuition credits, excellent health insurance (including vision and dental), and retirement plans with 12% matching. For more information on Administrative Professional benefits, visit http://www.hrs.colostate.edu/benefits/.
Required Qualifications:
- A Master’s degree in marine biology with a focus on mammals, or a similar field that is related to this position. OR a Bachelor’s degree in marine biology with a focus on mammals, or a similar field that is related to this position, with 3 years of professional experience
- Experience identifying marine mammals
- Experience with scientific data collection
- Experience writing technical reports (thesis, literature reviews, survey/monitoring annual reports, etc.)
- 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 legally authorized to work in the US by proposed start date; CEMML will not provide visa sponsorship for this position
Employee Benefits:
Colorado State University (CSU) is committed to providing employees with a strong and competitive benefits package that supports you, your health, and your family. Visit CSU’s Human Resources website for detailed benefit plan information for permanent full-time and part-time faculty and administrative professional employees in the following University benefit areas: https://hr.colostate.edu/hr-community-and-supervisors/benefits/benefits-eligibility/ & https://hr.colostate.edu/prospective-employees/our-perks/.
Salary Details: $50,000 - $60,000
Deadline: January 01, 2024
