Wildlife Refuge Management
Performs wildlife refuge management work including habitat management, visitor services, and conservation programs.
š°GS-0485 Salary Information
2025 Base Pay (before locality adjustment)
| Grade | Step 1 | Step 2 | Step 3 | Step 4 | Step 5 | Step 6 | Step 7 | Step 8 | Step 9 | Step 10 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GS-5 | $34,454 | $35,603 | $36,752 | $37,901 | $39,050 | $40,199 | $41,348 | $42,497 | $43,646 | $44,786 |
| GS-7 | $42,679 | $44,102 | $45,525 | $46,948 | $48,371 | $49,794 | $51,217 | $52,640 | $54,063 | $55,486 |
| GS-9 | $52,205 | $53,945 | $55,685 | $57,425 | $59,165 | $60,905 | $62,645 | $64,385 | $66,125 | $67,865 |
| GS-11 | $63,163 | $65,268 | $67,373 | $69,478 | $71,583 | $73,688 | $75,793 | $77,898 | $80,003 | $82,108 |
| GS-12 | $75,706 | $78,229 | $80,752 | $83,275 | $85,798 | $88,321 | $90,844 | $93,367 | $95,890 | $98,422 |
| GS-13 | $90,025 | $93,026 | $96,027 | $99,028 | $102,029 | $105,030 | $108,031 | $111,032 | $114,033 | $117,034 |
Note: These are 2025 base pay rates. Most federal employees receive locality pay adjustments of 15-40%+ depending on location.
Qualification Requirements
Official OPM qualification standards for GS-0485
Degree: zoology, wildlife management, or an appropriate field of biology that included at least 9 semester hours in zoology; 6 semester hours in such wildlife courses as mammalogy, ornithology, animal ecology, or wildlife management; and 3 semester hours in botany, and 3 semester hours in conservation biology.
OR
Combination of education and experience: courses equivalent to a major in one of the fields described in A above that included at least 9 semester hours in zoology; 6 semester hours in such wildlife courses as mammalogy, ornithology, animal ecology, or wildlife management; and 3 semester hours in botany, and 3 semester hours in conservation biology, plus appropriate experience or additional education.
Additional Requirements for Positions Involving Pilot Duties: For positions in this series that require piloting an aircraft, applicants must:
ā¢ Possess a current FAA Commercial Pilot's Certificate with appropriate ratings for single-engine aircraft operation on both land and water;
ā¢ Have a minimum of 500 hours of solo flight time in command of aircraft, not less than 100 hours of which was in cross-country time; and
ā¢ Meet the medical requirements prescribed for possession of the necessary pilot's license.
šļøTips for Veterans
- āTranslate military experience: Map duties to civilian terminology.
- āHighlight training: Include courses and certifications.
- āVeterans preference: Claim your 5 or 10-point preference.
- āExperience substitution: Military experience may substitute for education.
šHow to Qualify for GS-0485
Step-by-step guide to landing a federal wildlife refuge management position
- 1
Review Qualification Requirements
Read the OPM qualification standards above to understand the education and experience requirements for your target grade level.
- 2
Determine Your Grade Level
Match your years of experience and education to the appropriate GS grade. Generally: GS-5 (entry), GS-7/9 (junior), GS-11/12 (journey), GS-13+ (senior).
- 3
Gather Documentation
Collect your DD-214, SF-50 (if applicable), transcripts, certifications, and any training records that demonstrate your qualifications.
- 4
Build Your Federal Resume
Create a detailed federal resume (2-5 pages) that addresses every qualification requirement. Include hours worked per week, supervisor contact info, and specific accomplishments.
- 5
Apply on USAJOBS
Search for open positions, carefully answer all assessment questions, and submit your application before the closing date.
šļøMilitary to Federal Crosswalk
Military jobs that transition to GS-0485
Geospatial Engineer
Geospatial Engineers have experience in mapping and analyzing terrain, which can be applied to habitat management and conservation planning.
š” Tip:Your unique military experience may qualify you even if your MOS isn't listed.
šTypical Duties
- ā¢Manage wildlife refuge operations
- ā¢Develop habitat management plans
- ā¢Coordinate visitor services
- ā¢Monitor wildlife populations
- ā¢Implement conservation programs
- ā¢Manage partnerships
šÆKey Competencies
Knowledge of habitat and species management.
Skill in managing refuge facilities and staff.
Ability to manage visitor and hunting programs.
Skill in developing management plans.
Ability to work with diverse partners.
Understanding of refuge laws and policies.
šResume Keywords
š” Use these phrases to help ATS systems and human recruiters find your qualifications.
Quick Links
Grade Levels
āFrequently Asked Questions about GS-0485
What is a Wildlife Refuge Manager?
A GS-0485 Wildlife Refuge Manager oversees operations at National Wildlife Refuges, managing habitat, wildlife populations, and public use programs. These professionals protect critical ecosystems while providing outdoor recreation opportunities.
How much does a Wildlife Refuge Manager make?
Wildlife Refuge Managers earn between $52,205 (GS-9 Step 1) and $117,034 (GS-13 Step 10) under the 2025 GS pay scale. Most positions are GS-11/12/13, earning $63,163-$117,034 annually. Remote locations may include housing.
What are the requirements for GS-0485?
GS-0485 positions require education in wildlife management, biology, or natural resources with specific coursework. Higher grades require progressively more refuge management and supervisory experience.
Can military experience substitute for education in GS-0485?
Military experience cannot substitute for required wildlife education. However, veterans with wildlife degrees who managed natural resources on installations have applicable experience. Leadership and resource management skills from military service are valuable.
What is the career progression for Wildlife Refuge Manager?
The career ladder follows GS-9/11/12/13 intervals. Entry-level managers oversee smaller refuges. GS-12/13 managers direct major refuges with multiple staff. Senior managers may oversee refuge complexes or regional programs.
How do I apply for GS-0485 jobs?
Search USAJOBS.gov for 'Wildlife Refuge' or '0485' series. USFWS is the employer. Your federal resume should detail wildlife management experience, habitat restoration projects, and public use program management. Be prepared for rural locations.
Ready to Apply for GS-0485?
Create a tailored federal resume that meets OPM standards.