Wetland Biologist

Ducks Unlimited•Anna, IL

4h•$54,360 - $58,000•Onsite

About The Position

Ducks Unlimited, Inc., in partnership with the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), is hiring a Wetland Biologist to support wetland conservation and restoration throughout Illinois. The position is based at the NRCS office in Anna, Illinois, and works in close coordination with Illinois NRCS staff, private landowners, conservation partners, and other stakeholders. The employee will support wetland conservation easements, restoration projects, and Farm Bill conservation programs on private lands, providing biological and technical expertise to improve wetland function, water quality, wildlife habitat, and natural resource management. The role supports delivery of the Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP), particularly its Wetland Reserve Easement (WRE) component. Work includes wetland determinations and field assessments; developing and implementing restoration, enhancement, and habitat management plans; monitoring conservation projects; preparing program documentation; and supporting environmental compliance and conservation planning. Relevant subject areas include wetland ecology and hydrology, invasive species, threatened and endangered species, wildlife habitat management, and federal and state environmental requirements. This is a full-time Ducks Unlimited position expected to run from December 2026 through 2030, with extension beyond 2030 dependent on funding. The role combines office work with extensive field work and travel throughout Illinois, including occasional overnight travel. The position provides opportunities for professional growth, specialized training, and mentorship. Salary is based on experience and education; the typical starting range is $54,360–$58,000 per year. The position is classified as exempt.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Wildlife Biology, Fisheries Biology, Ecology, Natural Resources, Conservation Biology, Agriculture, Environmental Science, or a closely related field.
Minimum of two years of professional experience in wetland management, restoration, ecology, wildlife management, or related natural resource disciplines is preferred.
Combination of office work and extensive field work is required.
Ability to travel throughout Illinois; occasional overnight travel may be required.
Ability to work outdoors in remote locations and adverse weather conditions.
Working knowledge of wetland ecology, hydrology, and wetland-associated plant and animal communities.
Knowledge of wildlife habitat management principles, particularly for migratory birds and waterfowl.
Understanding of federal and state regulations related to wetlands, threatened and endangered species, invasive species, and environmental compliance.
Experience developing and implementing habitat management and restoration plans.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.
Strong organizational and project management skills.
Ability to work independently and collaborate effectively with agency personnel, landowners, and conservation partners.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to safely operate four-wheel-drive vehicles, UTVs/ATVs, trailers, and other field equipment.
Valid driver’s license required; willingness to use a personal vehicle for mileage reimbursement when a fleet vehicle is unavailable.

Nice To Haves

Experience with private lands conservation programs, habitat restoration projects, or Farm Bill programs is highly desirable.
Familiarity with USDA Farm Bill conservation programs, including Wetland Reserve Easements (WRE), is preferred.
Experience with ArcGIS, GPS technology, and conservation planning tools is preferred.

Responsibilities

Provide technical assistance for implementation of the Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP), Wetland Reserve Easement (WRE) component.
Assist private landowners with wetland determination, restoration, enhancement, creation, and management under Farm Bill and other conservation programs.
Conduct site visits and field assessments to evaluate project feasibility, eligibility, and conservation outcomes.
Develop wetland habitat management plans and recommend practices that support desired plant communities, wildlife populations, and ecosystem functions.
Apply knowledge of wetland ecology, hydrology, vegetation, and wildlife habitat requirements to develop restoration and management recommendations.
Assist with tree planting plans, native grass establishment, moist-soil management, emergent marsh management, and water-level management strategies.
Monitor and evaluate wetland restoration projects and conservation easements to assess effectiveness and identify enhancement opportunities.
Prepare Compatible Use Authorizations (CUAs) and other WRE Program documentation.
Coordinate with NRCS staff and conservation partners to maximize soil, water, and wildlife benefits of conservation projects.
Promote participation in USDA Farm Bill programs and other private lands conservation initiatives.
Assist with wetland management workshops, outreach, and training activities.
Coordinate and provide leadership for wildlife, plant, and wetland studies, investigations, and data collection.
Assist with applications, contracts, reporting requirements, and program documentation; serve on interdisciplinary conservation planning and program delivery teams.
Receive, disseminate, and assist with implementation of National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) guidance and requirements.
Provide NRCS field staff with training, technical guidance, and support on environmental compliance and biological resource concerns.
Prepare monthly, quarterly, and special progress reports documenting accomplishments, landowner assistance, acres impacted, and project status.
Compile and analyze biological and conservation data using available technology and GIS tools where appropriate.
Participate in state, regional, and national meetings, trainings, workshops, and teleconferences.
Maintain current knowledge of developments in wetland ecology, wildlife biology, restoration science, and conservation program delivery.
Promote efficiencies through technology, data management systems, and innovative conservation techniques; participate in professional training.
Assist with conservation outreach events, workshops, and partner training efforts.