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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 (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, leaving a legacy of science-based decisions that sustain our resources for future generations.

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 (CEMML) 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 gather population data and support existing programs to assess 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 24+ surveys conducted semi-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 monthly surveys for sea otters. These have historically been completed by state of California or U.S. 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:
1.) Twice per month, conduct pedestrian surveys of key pinniped haul-outs on both North and South VSFB. Four sites in the north (LF-06, Lion Head, South Spur Road, and Purisima Point) and 8 sites in the south (Boathouse Harbor, Small Haul-Out 2, Harbor Seal Beach, Amphitheater Beach, South Rocky Point, North Rocky Point, Point Arguello and Destroyer Rock) shall be surveyed biweekly.

2.) Once per month, survey Boathouse Harbor and Sudden Flats for Southern sea otters.
3.) Once per month, survey off-base sites managed by partner agencies, including Pt Sal State Parks and Point Conception at Dangermond Preserve. As feasible, these sites also require aerial photography from UAVs.
4.) As practicable, assist with launch-specific monitoring (i.e. acoustic recordings and behavioral monitoring of pinnipeds during some launches throughout the year (note: individual launch proponents have specific requirements to monitor certain space vehicles and during specific times of the year).
5.) As technology improves, contractor shall investigate and field test survey techniques during night and other low-light conditions.
6.) Act as a liaison for the California Marine Mammal Health and Stranding Response Program by coordinating with partner agencies to track dead, sick, or injured marine mammals. This includes managing necessary equipment, performing stranding response with network partners and reporting Level A data to NMFS.
7.) 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) to satisfy regulatory requirements. This also includes disseminating population data to state-wide working groups.

Other tasks and duties maybe 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/.

If you are needing assistance or accommodations with the search process, please reach out to the listed search contact. References will not be contacted without prior notification to candidates. 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.

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.

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.