Wildlife Programs Section Manager

State of Illinois•Springfield, IL

12d•$8,493 - $12,124•Hybrid

About The Position

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources is hiring a Natural Resources Manager III for the Office of Resource Conservation. The Wildlife Programs Section Manager serves as the lead administrator for implementing and coordinating wildlife resource planning, management, and research activities within the Division. The role coordinates with Program Managers and Field Operations to develop and implement annual wildlife program work plans and share management recommendations with field staff and the public. It also coordinates with the ORC Federal Aid and Special Fund Section on federal aid funds and special fund grants, and develops research programs in collaboration with government agencies, research institutions, professional associations, and private organizations. Reporting to the Administrator of the Division of Wildlife Resources, the position provides advanced professional counseling statewide, evaluates and recommends changes to policies, programs, procedures, legislation, and administrative rules, and supervises staff. It coordinates the Division’s operations, serves as a liaison with government and private organizations, and directs annual program budget development and priority setting. The position is based at IDNR Headquarters in Springfield, Illinois. The stated work hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. A hybrid schedule may be available, with two to five days per week in the office depending on operational needs. Travel, including overnight stays as appropriate, is required. The position is subject to applicable collective bargaining agreement provisions.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in wildlife or a closely related biological science, or equivalent knowledge, skill, and mental development.
Six years of progressively responsible professional experience in wildlife, including two years of professional supervisory experience, such as experience as a statewide natural resource program manager or regional resource manager.
Completion of a background check and self-disclosure of criminal history.
Appropriate, valid driver’s license.
Ability to travel in performance of duties, including overnight stays as appropriate.
Ability to meet the listed conditions of employment, with or without reasonable accommodation.
Required to file annual and supplemental Statements of Economic Interest.
Must comply with applicable revolving-door restrictions, including notifying the OEIG before accepting certain non-State employment offers during State employment or within one year after it ends.

Responsibilities

Provide specialized and advanced professional counseling statewide as Wildlife Programs Section Manager.
Evaluate existing state and federal policies, programs, procedures, legislation, and administrative rules, and develop, recommend, and/or implement changes in consultation with the Division Administrator and other Program Managers.
Serve as a full-line supervisor.
Coordinate operational activities of the Wildlife Resources Division to ensure comprehensive and integrated program development and implementation.
Serve as the Division’s liaison with federal and state governments and private organizations.
Plan, control, and direct development of the annual program budget and establishment of priorities.
Implement and coordinate wildlife resource planning, management, and research activities within the Division.
Coordinate with Program Managers and the Field Operations Section to develop and implement annual wildlife program work plans and disseminate management recommendations to field staff and the public.
Coordinate with the ORC Federal Aid and Special Fund Section in administering federal aid funds and other special fund grants.
Conduct research program development with relevant agencies, research institutions, professional associations, and private organizations.
Perform other duties as required or assigned that are reasonably within the scope of the stated duties.