Natural Resources Specialist / Beach Keeper

The Center for Environmental Management of Military Lands (CEMML) is seeking Natural Resource Specialists/Beach Keepers (Non-Student Hourly) to support the natural resource program at Vandenberg Space Force Base (VSFB). This seasonal, part-time position (up to 30 hours per week) provides hands-on management in outdoor recreation management, science communication, and wildlife management. The Beach Keeper will interact with and educate the public on western snowy plover life history and U.S. Space Force regulations pertaining to beach recreation limitations during the plover nesting season (1 March through 30 September). Beach Keepers will also have the opportunity to assist with a variety of other natural resource management projects on VSFB. Self-motivation, effective communication skills, and the ability to work weekends and holidays are required. Learn more about the Center for Environmental Management of Military Lands (CEMML) at www.cemml.colostate.edu.

For full consideration, applications must be received by May 22, 2026

· Informing beach users of VSFB rules and regulations related to beach recreation and snowy plover management

· Report violation of beach rules to VSFB Security Forces immediately via radio (provided) in a professional manner following trained guidance

· Coordinating with CEMML & VSFB biologists and contractors on plover management

· Maintenance of boundary fences and signs

Work location will be at Surf Beach and at Ocean Park on VSFB. These two areas have the most public visitation and are the main sources of beach violations on VSFB. The work schedule for this position will be based around times of maximum use of the beach by the public, which could vary weekly dependent on the weather but would most often be from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Shifts would be no earlier than 8:00 a.m. and no later than 7:00 p.m. Work schedules will be focused around periods of high beach visitation, including weekends and holidays.

Training and initial shifts will be under supervision. Work will otherwise be conducted independently. Daily summary reports will be submitted to on-site supervisor. Bimonthly team meetings with supervisor will take place in person or remotely.

· High School diploma (or similar).

· Must be able to work most weekends and holidays.

· Ability to work in challenging field conditions (heat, cold, wind, biting insects, ability to walk in sand for moderate distances, etc.).

· Ability to maintain fencing to include installing t-posts, use post pounder, and walk through sand.

· Must follow established protocol when communicating with Security Forces personnel and other VSFB staff.

· Ability to communicate effectively with the public, volunteers, and VSFB staff.

· Must remain calm in stressful or tense situations and walk away if needed and contact appropriate personnel per protocol.

· Must have a valid driver’s license or the ability to obtain a driver’s license by the employment start date.

· Must have reliable personal transportation and communication (i.e. email and phone).

· The successful candidate must be eligible to work in the United States by proposed start date. CEMML will not provide visa sponsorship for this position.

· Must pass a background investigation.

· Working toward or completed Bachelor of Science degree or higher in a field related to the project work, OR at least 2 years of applicable field experience.

· Previous experience supporting natural resource projects.

· Previous experience working with the public.

· Demonstrated adaptability to field work related issues.

· Ability to work with a wide variety of personalities and follow established protocol.

To apply, please upload the following applicant documents. Ensure your materials fully address the required and preferred job qualifications of the position. 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.

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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.

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.