Wetlands Biologist

Ducks Unlimited, Inc.•Kansas City, MO

2d•$54,500 - $55,500•Onsite

About The Position

Ducks Unlimited, Inc., in partnership with the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) and the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC), is hiring a Wetland Biologist to deliver wetland conservation easements and practices on private lands in Missouri. The position is based at the USDA Service Center in Jackson, Missouri, as part of NRCS WETs Team 3. The biologist will collaborate with Ducks Unlimited, Missouri NRCS staff, and MDC Wetland Services Biologists to deliver Wetland Reserve Easements (WRE), wetland restoration projects, and other Farm Bill and private-land conservation programs. The work area is a priority landscape for migratory birds that depend on wetland habitats, particularly along the Mississippi Flyway. The role combines programmatic and technical assistance to private landowners with fieldwork, program support, reporting, and professional development. The successful candidate will be a full-time employee of Ducks Unlimited’s Great Lakes Atlantic Regional Office in Dexter, Michigan. The position is co-funded by NRCS, MDC, and Ducks Unlimited and is a term position scheduled from October 2026 through September 2029, with an extension expected if funding allows. Compensation is commensurate with education and experience; the typical starting salary is $54,500–$55,500 per year, plus a variable compensation incentive program. The position is classified as exempt.

Requirements

Bachelor of Science degree in natural resource conservation, agriculture, wildlife management, or a closely related field.
Working knowledge of wetland systems, including identification of wetland-associated flora and fauna.
Knowledge of migratory waterfowl ecology and habitat management principles.
Experience developing and implementing wetland management and conservation plans.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary team.
Ability to work outdoors in inclement weather and remote field conditions.
Ability to safely operate and maintain 4x4 vehicles, trucks, trailers, UTVs/ATVs, and other field equipment.
Ability to pull and back trailers and navigate dirt roads and uneven terrain.
Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
Strong written and verbal communication skills for interacting with landowners, agency staff, and partners.
Valid driver’s license required; willingness to use a personal vehicle for mileage reimbursement when a fleet vehicle is unavailable.
Combination of office work and extensive fieldwork is required.
Infrequent overnight travel may be required, both in-state and out-of-state.
Field duties may require working in extreme or inclement weather conditions.

Nice To Haves

At least 2 years of experience managing wetland systems is highly preferred.
Working knowledge of ArcGIS.
Familiarity with the USDA Wetland Reserve Easement Program, Farm Bill programs, and private lands conservation programs in Missouri.

Responsibilities

Provide in-the-field, programmatic, and technical assistance for state and federal wetland conservation programs on private lands.
Conduct site visits to develop wetland habitat management plans and determine eligibility for USDA Farm Bill, Ducks Unlimited land protection, and other conservation programs.
Work directly with landowners to promote and enhance wetland conservation practices that improve water quality and wildlife habitat.
Assist with required monitoring of WRE and other conservation program lands to ensure program intent is met and identify enhancement opportunities.
Develop Compatible Use Authorizations (CUAs) for approval under the NRCS WRE Program.
Develop tree planting, grass planting, water-level management, and moist-soil/emergent marsh management plans using knowledge of terrestrial and aquatic species life history.
Promote landowner participation in USDA Farm Bill programs and other wetland-focused conservation opportunities.
Coordinate with NRCS and partner staff to maximize soil, water, and wildlife benefits of conservation programs.
Assist with wetland management workshops, outreach, and training activities.
Assist with applications, contracts, and documentation for wetland conservation programs.
Provide technical support to partners on wetland creation and restoration projects.
Serve on interdisciplinary teams to enhance and improve wetland conservation program delivery.
Submit monthly progress reports documenting landowner assistance, acres impacted, and time allocation.
Prepare quarterly activity summary reports.
Assist with other wetland enhancement and private lands conservation duties as needed.
Expand technical expertise in wetland and riverine systems through training and educational opportunities.