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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/.

Edwards Air Force Base (AFB) is situated in the western Mojave Desert of California, northeast of Los Angeles. The CEMML team based at Edwards AFB consists of three full-time permanent staff and up to 4 seasonal staff. Reach-back support in Fort Collins offers project management and specialist support in GIS, wildlife conservation, research design, vegetation management and other subject matter experts. The team works closely with the Environmental Management staff at Edwards AFB on a daily basis, and occasionally with contractors who specialize in weed control, construction, road maintenance, trash removal, veterinary care, wildlife research, and environmental compliance. You would be joining a friendly, supportive, and high-achieving team of co-workers!

A Botanist/Invasive Plant Specialist position is available with the Center for Environmental Management of Military Lands. The Botanist/Invasive Plant Specialist is a full-time position located on-site at Edwards Air Force Base in southern California. The position will report to the project manager based in Fort Collins. They will work closely with the other CEMML staff located on-site, the Edwards AFB Natural Resource Manager, and subcontractors. This position is eligible to work hybrid; the candidate is expected to work on-site at Edwards Air Force Base, CA, at minimum 3 days a week (or more during certain times of year requiring field work), and the remaining time work from home.

CEMML has been working with Edwards AFB on invasive species management since fall 2024. The successful candidate will be responsible for the oversight and implementation of the invasive plant management program. The botanist may also oversee restoration and revegetation projects, dependent on funding.

The Botanist’s key roles will be to:
• Become and maintain strong familiarity with the target invasive plant species on base, including the locations and status of infestation across the installation;
• Cultivate awareness of regional invasive species topics, such as new control techniques, incipient invaders, etc.;
• Perform field work including scouting, formal surveys, and invasive plant treatments (mostly herbicide application, occasionally mechanical or manual control);
• Plan and oversee revegetation projects in priority locations. This may include riparian or upland areas, or in critical wildlife habitat;
• Communicate regular status updates to all partners;
• Collect and manage data consistent with Edwards AFB’s data management scheme;
• Synthesize data to evaluate invasive species treatment or other project success and guide future priorities;
• Write annual technical reports discussing results and accomplishments;
• Develop annual work plans and set priorities and schedules for each year’s work;
• Work with project manager to subcontract and oversee field work. Future potential to hire and oversee field staff;
• Develop and disseminate outreach and education material. Liaise, when possible, with facilities, military operations or other groups to improve biosecurity.

The Botanist will also have the opportunity and be expected to assist with other natural resource, vegetation and wildlife projects as needed and as funding arises. This may involve assisting with nuisance and injured wildlife response, desert tortoise monitoring and compliance duties, recreation enhancement projects, and various other wildlife and botanical surveys to support the natural resources program.

This is a full-time salaried position but work hours will vary over the course of the year, particularly to meet field season needs.

Applicants must meet the minimum qualifications in the announcement to be considered for hire. Apply no later than September 15, 2025, for full consideration. Mailed or emailed applications will not be accepted.

Upload each of the items below individually as a Word Document (.doc), PDF (.pdf), or Rich Text Format (.rtf). Please note that incomplete applications cannot be considered. Please remove social security numbers and birth dates from application materials. A complete application consists of:

CSU is committed to full inclusion of qualified individuals. If you are needing assistance or accommodations with the search process, please reach out to the listed search contact.

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.