Wetland Biologist

Ducks Unlimited • Champaign, IL

1h • $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 Champaign, Illinois, and works in coordination with NRCS staff, private landowners, conservation partners, and other stakeholders. The role provides biological and technical expertise for wetland conservation, wildlife habitat enhancement, and natural resource management, including delivery of the Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP), particularly its Wetland Reserve Easement (WRE) component. The position is expected to run from December 2026 through 2030, with extension beyond 2030 dependent on funding.

The employee will help develop and implement wetland restoration, enhancement, and management projects on private lands. Work includes field assessments, conservation planning, habitat management recommendations, project monitoring, program documentation, environmental compliance support, and outreach. The role requires knowledge of wetland ecology, invasive species, threatened and endangered species considerations, wildlife habitat management, and requirements related to NRCS conservation programs and Farm Bill implementation. It combines office duties with extensive field work, travel throughout Illinois, and work outdoors in remote locations and adverse weather. Occasional overnight travel may be required.

The position is a full-time Ducks Unlimited employee and is classified as exempt. Ducks Unlimited offers professional growth, specialized training, and mentorship. Salary is based on experience and education, with a typical starting range of $54,360–$58,000 per year.

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.
• 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; must be willing to use a personal vehicle for mileage reimbursement when a fleet vehicle is unavailable.
• 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.

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 implementing ACEP’s Wetland Reserve Easement (WRE) component.
• Assist private landowners with wetland determinations and restoration, enhancement, creation, and management activities associated with 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.
• Use 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 plans, emergent marsh management, and water-level management strategies.
• Monitor and evaluate wetland restoration projects and conservation easements, assess effectiveness, and identify enhancement opportunities.
• Prepare Compatible Use Authorizations (CUAs) and other documentation required under the WRE Program.
• 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 teams supporting conservation planning and program delivery.
• Receive, disseminate, and assist with implementing National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) guidance and requirements.
• Provide training, technical guidance, and support to NRCS field staff 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 technical 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 to expand expertise in wetland systems, habitat management, and conservation planning.
• Assist with conservation outreach events, workshops, and partner training efforts.

Benefits

• Comprehensive group medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance, including spouse and dependent coverage.
• Three weeks of paid vacation.
• Paid sick leave.
• Ten paid holidays.
• 401(k) plan with partial employer match.
• Tuition reimbursement.
• Professional growth, specialized training, and mentorship opportunities.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level