U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

Wildlife Inspector

Multiple Locations $50460 - $116362 PA GS Closes Oct 20, 2026

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Summary

All qualifications must be met by the closing date of this announcement - 10/20/2026 - unless otherwise stated in this vacancy announcement. Competitive candidates must also meet Time-in-Grade requirements as defined in 5 CFR 300, Subpart F. Minimum Qualification Requirements: To qualify for this position, you must meet the following minimum qualifications: To qualify for this position at the GS-07 grade level: One (1) year of full-time specialized experience comparable to difficulty and responsibility to the GS-05 grade level in the Federal service. Specialized experience is defined as: 1) assisting with basic inspections and preliminary fact-finding; 2) reviewing documentation to support compliance checks and detect potential discrepancies; 3) using information systems and standard inspection equipment to carry out routine tasks; 4) gathering and reviewing data to support simple trend analysis or compliance evaluations; 5) communicating with travelers, carriers, businesses, and Federal partners to exchange basic information and provide routine guidance on law enforcement, wildlife law, and/or wildlife trafficking. You must include hours per week worked. -OR- Successful completion of one (1) full year of graduate-level education in a field that demonstrates the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to perform the work of the position. Acceptable fields include, but are not limited to: natural resource management, natural sciences, earth sciences, history, archeology, anthropology, park and recreation management, law enforcement/police science, social sciences, museum sciences, business administration, public administration, behavioral sciences, sociology, or other fields directly related to the management and protection of natural and cultural resources. -OR- Successful completion of a combination of graduate-level education and specialized experience, as described above, may be used to meet the total qualification requirements. Only graduate education beyond the bachelor's degree is creditable, and when combined with specialized experience, the total must equal 100% of the qualification requirements. -OR- Superior Academic Achievement (SAA): A bachelor's degree in a qualifying major as described above AND evidence of SAA based on one of the following: 1) Ranking in the upper one-third (1/3) of the graduating class; 2) Election to a recognized national scholastic honor society; 3) A grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale for all completed undergraduate coursework; 4) A GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale for coursework completed during the final two (2) years of the bachelor's program; 5) A GPA of 3.5 or higher on a 4.0 scale based on all completed coursework in the major field of study; or 6) A GPA of 3.5 or higher in the major field of study during the final two (2) years of the bachelor's program. To verify SAA, applicants must submit transcripts that clearly show how GPA was calculated. To qualify for this position at the GS-09 grade level: One (1) year of full-time specialized experience comparable to difficulty and responsibility to the GS-07 grade level in the Federal service. Specialized experience is defined as: 1) assisting with inspections and investigations of suspected wildlife laws violations, following required search, seizure, and evidence-handling procedures; 2) examining shipments, containers, and documentation to verify compliance and identify high risk shipments or travelers; 3) utilizing automated inspection/compliance systems and related equipment to carry out inspections and interdiction tasks; 4) analyzing wildlife trade data and trends to support the development of compliance and permit evaluation criteria; 5) communicating with travelers, carriers, businesses, and Federal agencies to exchange information, resolve compliance issues, and provide outreach on wildlife import/export requirements. -OR- Master's or equivalent graduate degree or 2 full years of progressively higher-level graduate education in an accredited college or university leading to such a degree or LL.B. or J.D., in a field of study directly related to the position. -OR- Successful completion of a combination of graduate education and specialized experience as described above, which together equals 100% of the qualification requirements. Only graduate education beyond the first year may be combined with specialized experience. To qualify for this position at the GS-11 grade level: One (1) year of full-time specialized experience comparable to difficulty and responsibility to the GS-09 grade level in the Federal service. Specialized experience is defined as: 1) conducting targeted interdiction and inspection activities to detect noncompliance with U.S. and foreign wildlife laws, treaties, and regulations; 2) identifying wildlife, parts, and products, and referring specimens requiring advanced identification; 3) conducting risk assessments and analyzing trade data and trends to develop criteria for evaluating compliance with permits and regulations; 4) communicating mission objectives through analytical reports; 5) supporting civil and criminal investigations with partner agencies involving illegal wildlife trade and other violations of federal, state, tribal, and international laws. -OR- Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree, or three (3) years of progressively higher-level graduate education leading to such a degree, or LL.M, in a field of study directly related to the position. -OR- Successful completion of a combination of graduate education and specialized experience, as described above, which together equals 100% of the qualification requirements. Only graduate education beyond the first two (2) years may be combined with specialized experience. To qualify for this position at the GS-12 grade level: One (1) year of full-time specialized experience comparable in difficulty and responsibility to the GS-11 grade level in the Federal service. Specialized experience is defined as: 1) conducting interdiction and inspection of wildlife shipments at ports of entry, identifying specimens using taxonomic or forensic methods, and documenting findings to support enforcement actions; 2) conducting port-specific risk assessments using analytical tools, intelligence, and trade data to identify trends, establish inspection criteria, and develop cargo and passenger lookouts; 3) supporting investigations by collecting, preserving, and processing evidence under federal standards, examining high-risk shipments across transport modes, and contributing to case development; 4) serving as a technical expert and liaison with domestic and international partners, facilitating information exchange, advising industry entities, participating in special projects, and preparing reports and presentations; 5) developing and delivering training, guidance, and outreach to inspectors, partners, and the public, supporting program improvements, and providing mentorship to strengthen inspection program operations. NOTE: There is no substitution of education for specialized experience at the GS-12 grade level. Volunteer Experience: Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.

Major Duties

The Field Senior Wildlife Inspector serves as a frontline enforcement officer for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's Office of Law Enforcement, protecting wildlife resources by detecting and deterring illegal wildlife trade. As a technical expert at assigned ports of entry, the position conducts complex inspections, leads interdiction activities, and ensures compliance with federal, state, and international wildlife protection laws. Working across cargo facilities, passenger terminals, warehouses, and other port environments, the inspector applies advanced biological and analytical expertise to regulate legal wildlife trade and counter trafficking efforts. Duties are developmental when filled below the full-performance level. At the full-performance level GS-12, the duties include but are not limited to: - Leading interdiction and inspection activities at ports of entry to detect and counter wildlife trafficking, applying expertise in species identification, risk assessment, and data analysis. - Conducting inspections and investigations of wildlife shipments and travelers, identifying high-risk activity, collaborating with partner agencies, and supporting the lawful flow of wildlife trade through informed compliance efforts. - Serving as a technical expert and liaison, supporting civil and criminal cases, sharing information with domestic and international partners, completing special projects, and preparing reports and presentations. - Delivering training and outreach to inspectors, partners, and the public, and providing leadership and mentorship to strengthen Wildlife Inspection Program capabilities. - Performs other related duties as assigned, including conducting inspections in varied and hazardous environments, preparing investigative findings and recommendations, and coordinating with experts and regional counterparts to enhance inspection operations. Physical Demands: This position requires performing physical inspections that may involve pushing, pulling, lifting, and moving items weighing up to 50 pounds, as well as working with live animals and animal products that present significant safety hazards. Wildlife Inspectors may encounter bites, scratches, and potentially dangerous envenomation from reptiles and invertebrates, and may be exposed to various communicable diseases, and hazardous chemicals used on wildlife products. Strict adherence to safety procedures is required, including use and maintenance of protective equipment and completion of required safety training. Work Environment: Administrative work is performed in an office setting; however, inspections occur at warehouses, container stations, passenger terminals, quarantine facilities, and other locations throughout the port of entry, sometimes many miles apart. Frequent or extended travel for special staffing assignments may be required, including work at non-designated ports of entry, and assisting Special Agents with executing search warrants. Medical Surveillance Program: Position is subject to enrollment and ongoing participation in the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Medical Surveillance Program in accordance with 242 FW 4 and 5 CFR Part 339. Incumbents must complete periodic medical surveillance examinations due to potential exposure to hazardous chemicals and communicable diseases encountered during inspection and interdiction activities. Work Schedule: Position may require working at a fixed workstation or at multiple stations/work sites under established, rotating, or other work schedules (i.e., evenings, weekends, holidays, overtime, and shift work). Foreign Language: Some duty stations may require applicants to demonstrate basic to fluent proficiency in a foreign language (speaking, reading, and writing) to support interactions with local communities and trade partners. While foreign language proficiency is not required, the following languages may be beneficial at certain locations: Spanish - El Paso, TX; Houston, TX; Miami, FL Chamorro or Tagalog - Agana, Guam Hawaiian or Tagalog/Ilocano - Honolulu, HI Language skills are optional, will not affect qualification or rating, and will not be assessed.

Requirements

Must provide proof of U.S. citizenship. Successfully pass the E-Verify employment verification check. To learn more, visit https://www.e-verify.gov/. Individuals assigned male at birth after 12-31-59 must be registered for the Selective Service. To verify registration, visit SSS.gov. Direct Deposit participation required. Suitability for employment, as determined by background investigation. Merit promotion applicants must meet time-in-grade requirement as defined in 5 CFR 300, Subpart F. Pre-employment and random drug testing are required. Applicants selected for this position will not be appointed if a verified positive drug test result is received. Must possess and maintain a valid State driver's license throughout employment. Employees are required to wear an official U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service uniform and comply with uniform standards. A uniform allowance will be provided. Position is subject to a financial disclosure requirement, within 30 days of appointment. This is a bargaining unit position represented by American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE). As a condition of employment for accepting this position, may be required to serve a one (1)-year probationary period. This probationary period allows the Agency to evaluate an employee's fitness for Federal service and to determine whether the employee's continued employment advances the public interest. The probationary period is an extension of the appointment process. During this time, the Agency will evaluate whether an employee's continuation in the position supports the Agency's mission and organizational goals, aligns with Agency needs and interests, promotes the efficiency of the service, and otherwise advances the public interest. In making this determination, the Agency will consider the employee's performance and conduct; the needs and interests of the Agency; whether continued service supports broader Agency or Government objectives; and whether continued employment would advance the efficiency of the Federal service. Under applicable law, an employee's service during a probationary period automatically terminates at the end of that period unless the Agency affirmatively certifies, in writing, that the employee's continued employment advances the public interest and that the employee's appointment should be finalized. If the Agency does not issue this written certification, the appointment will be terminated at the conclusion of the probationary period.

Required Documents

The following documents are required and must be submitted by 11:59 PM (ET) - 10/20/2026 - unless otherwise stated in this vacancy announcement: Resume which includes a list of all significant jobs held and duties performed, with dates in month-year format (include month/day/year format if needed for 52 weeks of experience), and indicate hours worked per week (or full-time). Your resume must clearly show how long you have held each grade/rank. Resumes must not exceed 2 single-sided pages and resumes longer than 2 pages will not be accepted. The minimum font size is 10-point for all body text. All resumes must maintain a minimum 0.5-inch margins on all sides to ensure readability and prevent excessive content compression. Including supplemental pages or attachments disguised as resume extensions are prohibited and will not be reviewed. Your 2-page resume must contain information sufficient to make a valid determination that you fully meet the specialized experience requirements. Resume Builder: https://help.usajobs.gov/faq/application/documents/resume/what-to-include Complete All Required Assessment(s). Performance Appraisals and Awards: You must submit your most recent performance appraisal showing the official rating of record and signed by a supervisor dated within the past 18 months. If unavailable, a written explanation is required (including if any prior performance appraisals/evaluations were at an acceptable level). Performance awards dated within the past 5 years may also be submitted for due weight consideration. All College Transcript(s), if qualifying based on education. Eligibility Documentation: Current and former Federal employees must submit latest SF-50 (i.e. Promotion, Separation, Within Grade Increase (WGI)) showing tenure 1 or 2 in block 24, grade, and if applicable, an additional SF-50 showing the highest grade or promotion potential held. Time in grade will be determined by reviewing your resume and required SF-50s. If your SF-50 showing highest permanent grade held has an effective date within the past year, your resume must clearly show that you held that grade for one year. Do not submit award SF-50s. Veterans Preference Documentation: Veterans eligible under VEOA must submit the most recent Documentation of Service and Separation under Honorable Conditions (e.g. DD-214) as listed on the SF15. You may request a copy of the VA letter from https://www.va.gov/records. If you are a veteran within 120 days of discharge, you must submit signed documentation from the Armed Forces certifying: 1) your expected release/retirement from active duty, 2) under honorable conditions, 3) your pay grade/rank/rate at time of discharge, 4) dates of active-duty service, 5) any campaign or expeditionary medals received, and 6) dated within 120 days of your separation. Interagency Career Transition (ICTAP) and Career Transition Assistance Plan (CTAP): You MUST submit proof of eligibility including 1) copy of the agency notice, e.g., RIF Separation Notice, Notice of Proposed Removal, etc.; 2) SF-50s (Notifications of Personnel Action) showing career/conditional tenure competitive status, promotion potential and duty location; and 3) your most recent performance appraisal. To exercise selection priority, displaced or surplus Federal employees must be well qualified. For more information visit: USAJOBS Help Center - Career Transition Programs (CTAP, ICTAP, RPL). Failure to submit any of the above-mentioned required documents will result in loss of consideration due to an incomplete application package. It is your responsibility to ensure all required documents have been submitted. Do not submit photographs with your application package. Do not upload Adobe portfolio documents.

How to Apply

Please read the entire announcement and all the instructions before you begin an application. To apply for and be considered for this position, you must complete all required questionnaires, assessments and submit all required documentation as specified in the How to Apply and Required Documents section. The complete application package must be submitted by 11:59 PM (ET) on the 10/20/2026, unless otherwise stated in this vacancy announcement to receive consideration. Note: You will only be marked eligible for those eligibilities that you selected and provided the appropriate supporting documentation. The application process is as follows: Click the Apply Online button. Answer the questions presented in the application and attach all necessary supporting documentation. To PREVIEW the application questionnaire, select the following link: https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/13089570 Click the Submit Application button prior to 11:59 PM (ET) on the announcement closing date. If you are required to complete any USA Hire Assessments, you will be notified after submitting your application. The notification will be provided in your application submission screen and via email. The notification will include your unique assessment access link to the USA Hire system and the completion deadline. Additionally, in USAJOBS you can click "Track this application" to return to your assessment completion notice. Access USA Hire using your unique assessment link. Access is granted through your USAJOBS login credentials. Review all instructions prior to beginning your assessments. You will have the opportunity to request a testing accommodation before beginning the assessments should you have a disability covered under the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 as amended. Set aside at least 3 hours to take the USA Hire Assessments; however, most applicants complete the assessments in less time. If you need to stop the assessments and continue later, you can re-use your unique assessment link. Your responses to the USA Hire Assessments will be reused for one year (in most cases) from the date you complete an assessment. If future applications you submit require completion of the same assessments, your responses will be automatically reused. Visit the USA Hire Applicant Resource Center for practice assessments and assessment preparation resources at https://support-usahire.opm.gov/hc/en-us. Applicants who apply under this job opportunity announcement agree to have their application, associated documents and applicable personal information shared with other Bureaus/Offices within the Department of the Interior (DOI) who have vacancies within the same occupational series, grade, full performance level and in the same geographic location(s), including within the same metro/commuting area. Applying to this announcement does not replace the need to apply to other job opportunity announcements for which you wish to receive consideration. To update your application, including supporting documentation: During the announcement open period, return to your USAJOBS account, find your application record, and click Edit my application. This option will no longer be available once the announcement has closed. To view the announcement status or your application status, visit https://help.usajobs.gov/how-to/application/status.