Forest Wildlife Specialist – Iowa

The Ruffed Grouse Society is seeking a Forest Wildlife Specialist in northeast Iowa to enhance forest diversity and wildlife habitat. The role involves managing habitat conservation projects, leading meetings, and conducting fieldwork. Candidates should have a degree in forestry or related fields, with relevant experience. The position requires travel throughout northeast Iowa. Competitive compensation and benefits are offered, with a term from January 2026 to January 2030.
Location: Northeast, Iowa (Preferred: Fayette, Iowa)

Posting Dates: Open Date: November 5th, 2025; Close Date: December 1st, 2025.

Term of Position: January 2026 to January 2030 (likely to be extended with additional funding).

Anticipated Start Date: January 5th, 2026.

Background

Established in 1961, the Ruffed Grouse Society (RGS) is North America’s foremost conservation organization dedicated to creating healthy forests, abundant wildlife, and promoting a conservation ethic. Together with the American Woodcock Society (AWS), established in 2014, RGS & AWS work with private landowners and government agencies to develop critical wildlife habitat utilizing scientific management practices.

RGS & AWS has entered into a 5-year collaborative agreement with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR). They are seeking a motivated individual to work with a diverse group of forest stakeholders on public and private lands in northeast Iowa and to build and lead a Habitat Collaborative.

Qualifications
• A degree in forestry and/or a closely related field, with 3+ years of experience and/or a graduate degree in natural resource management. Professional experience in large ungulate ecology is a plus.
• In-depth understanding of forest management including forest operations, silviculture, forest product markets, and environmental regulation, with the ability to assess wildlife habitat needs.
• Familiarity with NRCS and DNR programs, regulations, policies, and directives.
• Excellent communication, networking, organizational skills and the ability to engage with diverse collaborators. Must be comfortable leading both virtual and in-person meetings.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, ArcGIS, Google Maps, and other computer mapping systems.
• Willingness and ability to travel frequently throughout northeast Iowa and perform fieldwork under varied conditions.
• Must have a valid driver’s license and the ability to work independently while managing multiple projects under deadlines.

Position Summary

The Forest Wildlife Specialist will work jointly with RGS & AWS, IA DNR, NRCS, FWS, counties, NGOs, and private landowners to enhance forest diversity and wildlife habitat in northeast Iowa. Responsibilities include managing habitat conservation projects, leading Habitat Collaborative meetings, identifying forest management and restoration projects, and assisting with related grants and agreements. Additional tasks involve field forestry work, inventory/monitoring, reporting, and coordinating outreach efforts with various partners.

Compensation and Benefits

Competitive compensation package including health insurance (medical, dental, vision), retirement options with employer contribution, travel reimbursement, computer and office equipment, with a salary commensurate with experience (minimum starting range $50,000–$62,000).

Application Instructions

Please email a cover letter and resume (combined in a single .pdf file) by December 1st, 2025 to JonS@RuffedGrouseSociety.org using “IA Forest Wildlife Specialist” as the subject line. Submission of three references is required. For any questions, contact Jon Steigerwaldt at 412-720-6033.