Ungulate Program Coordinator (Natural Resource Specialist 4)

State of Oregon•Salem, OR

22h•Onsite

About The Position

As an Ungulate Program Coordinator (Natural Resource Specialist 4) with the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, you will play a central leadership role in shaping the future of Oregon’s deer, elk, bighorn sheep, mountain goat, pronghorn, and other ungulate species. Based in Salem, Oregon, you will guide statewide policy, science, and management strategies that directly influence the long-term health of Oregon’s wildlife and the people who depend on it. In this position, you will lead the coordination and management of the Ungulate Program, serving as the department’s primary technical and policy expert. Your work will ensure scientific integrity, consistency across regions, and effective collaboration among staff, partners, and stakeholders. This is a highly visible, impactful role for candidates who value applied wildlife science, strategic planning, and leadership in complex natural resource issues.

Requirements

Eight years of experience performing studies, research, or resource management activities in a biological or ecological program. At least three years of the experience must be at a technical or professional level performing activities such as researching and analyzing data, conducting investigations, applying pertinent laws and regulations, or coordinating and monitoring project activities.
A Bachelor's degree in Fisheries or Wildlife Science or a closely related Bachelor’s degree with at least 45 quarter (30 semester) hours of related coursework and five years of experience performing studies, research, or resource management activities in a biological or ecological program. At least three years of the experience must be at a technical or professional level performing activities such as researching and analyzing data, conducting investigations, applying pertinent laws and regulations, or coordinating and monitoring project activities.
A Master's degree in Fisheries or Wildlife Science or a closely related Bachelor’s degree with at least 45 quarter (30 semester) hours of related coursework and four years of experience performing studies, research, or resource management activities in a biological or ecological program. At least three years of the experience must be at a technical or professional level performing activities such as researching and analyzing data, conducting investigations, applying pertinent laws and regulations, or coordinating and monitoring project activities.
A Doctorate degree in Fisheries or Wildlife Science or a closely related Bachelor’s degree with at least 45 quarter (30 semester) hours of related coursework and three years of experience performing studies, research, or resource management activities in a biological or ecological program. At least three years of the experience must be at a technical or professional level performing activities such as researching and analyzing data, conducting investigations, applying pertinent laws and regulations, or coordinating and monitoring project activities.
Acquiring an All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) Safety Education Card obtained through the Oregon State Parks and Recreation Department within the first thirty days of appointment.

Nice To Haves

Strong grounding in wildlife biology, ecological principles, and applied ungulate management.
Effective project leader with experience coordinating multi-partner initiatives.
Strong analytical skills, including experience with biological data, harvest analyses, and program evaluation.
Strategic planner with the ability to balance long-term goals and immediate management needs.
Skilled policy thinker who can interpret complex regulations and communicate implications clearly.
Excellent communicator—able to translate technical science into clear guidance for diverse audiences.
Collaborative relationship-builder who works well across regions, disciplines, and agencies.
Sound judgment and decision-making under complex or high-visibility conditions.
Experience writing and reviewing wildlife manuscripts, management plans, and technical reports for projects or programs.

Responsibilities

Lead and coordinate the statewide Ungulate Program, serving as ODFW’s primary technical and policy expert for ungulate species.
Guide development and implementation of species management plans and major program initiatives.
Manage key partnerships, cooperative agreements, and interagency coordination efforts.
Oversee statewide biological programs, surveys, relocations, data systems, and major project work.
Coordinate the development and implementation of Oregon’s Big Game Regulations, including analyses, public engagement, and Commission materials.
Review, interpret, and recommend policies, rules, and legislation affecting ungulate management.
Represent ODFW on committees, advisory groups, and collaborative initiatives at regional, national, and international levels.
Provide clear, science-based information to staff, leadership, partners, and the public.