Farm Bill Wildlife Biologist I or II

Pheasants Forever•Ridgway, IL

7d•$40,500 - $52,000

About The Position

Pheasants Forever, Inc. and Quail Forever (PFQF) employ and supervise this position. USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) and the PF Senior Farm Bill Biologist provide daily instruction, quality assurance, training, and workload prioritization. Located within USDA Service Centers, the biologist provides conservation technical assistance and program support within assigned districts. Occasional service to counties outside the primary work area may be required to address workload needs and assist teammates and partners. Working jointly with NRCS, IDNR, and other partners, the biologist promotes, accelerates enrollment in, coordinates, and implements conservation provisions of the Federal Farm Bill and related wildlife conservation programs. The role also involves working with local Pheasants Forever chapters and other partners to support habitat management and participating in statewide habitat meetings. The position provides wildlife habitat-focused assistance to private landowners, agencies, nongovernmental organizations, and other groups, primarily through federal Farm Bill programs. It includes explaining program requirements, conducting site visits to determine eligibility, developing contract documents, reviewing plans and specifications, evaluating conservation practices and contracts, and advising landowners on implementation. The biologist also coordinates training, workshops, tours, and habitat education and outreach with local PF/QF chapters.

Requirements

Bachelor of Science degree in Wildlife Management or a closely related natural resources field.
Ability to communicate clearly and effectively with landowners and partner agency staff.
Ability to work independently with little supervision and with diverse clientele.
Knowledge of wildlife ecology and grassland, wetland, and early-successional habitat management, including use of habitat management tools in developing management plans.
Strong background in prescribed fire implementation and education.
Knowledge of federal Farm Bill conservation and wildlife programs, including WRP, CRP, SAFE, EQIP, and CSP, as well as state and local programs.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Strong organizational skills, time management, and attention to detail.
Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, and ArcGIS.
Valid driver's license and ability to use a personal vehicle.
Ability to obtain USDA Federal Security Clearance.

Nice To Haves

Specific knowledge of habitat requirements for wildlife species associated with grasslands and farmland.
Knowledge of how Farm Bill conservation programs are implemented in agricultural landscapes.
Proven experience working with USDA Farm Bill programs.
Practical or professional experience in farming and agricultural disciplines.
A balance of technical knowledge and interpersonal skills for implementing voluntary conservation programs on private lands.
Enjoyment of working with private landowners and producers to achieve their conservation objectives.

Responsibilities

Provide wildlife habitat-focused technical assistance and guidance to private landowners, government agencies, nongovernmental organizations, and other groups, primarily through federal Farm Bill programs.
Communicate program requirements, conduct site visits to determine eligibility, and develop contract documents for Farm Bill and other local and state conservation programs.
Review plans and specifications for feasibility under Farm Bill program contract rules.
Evaluate and plan new and re-enrolled Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) contracts, conduct mid-contract management and maintenance evaluations and recommendations, and complete status reviews.
Provide on-site technical assistance to landowners implementing conservation practices.
Coordinate and conduct workshops, tours, and other training for landowners and resource professionals.
Work with local Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever chapters on habitat program education, outreach, and technical assistance for habitat projects.
Work jointly with NRCS, IDNR, and other partners to promote, coordinate, and implement Farm Bill conservation provisions and related wildlife conservation programs.
Meet with local chapters and partners to support habitat management efforts and participate in statewide habitat meetings.