IL Farm Bill Wildlife Biologist I or II - Morrison

Pheasants Forever is seeking a Farm Bill Wildlife Biologist I or II for its Morrison, IL location. The role involves providing technical assistance for wildlife habitat management, promoting conservation provisions of the Federal Farm Bill, and collaborating with local partners. Responsibilities include site visits, developing contract documents, conducting evaluations, and facilitating training sessions. A Bachelor’s degree in Wildlife Management or a related field is required, along with experience in USDA Farm Bill programs.
About the position

Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever (PFQF) is seeking a dedicated and knowledgeable Farm Bill Wildlife Biologist I or II to join our team in Morrison, IL. This position will be supervised by Pheasants Forever, Inc. and will work closely with the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) to provide essential conservation technical assistance and support for wildlife habitat management. The successful candidate will be responsible for promoting and implementing the conservation provisions of the Federal Farm Bill and other related wildlife conservation programs within their assigned districts. This role requires a strong commitment to working collaboratively with local chapters of Pheasants Forever and other partners to influence habitat management efforts and participate in statewide habitat meetings. The biologist will provide technical assistance focused on wildlife habitat to private landowners, government agencies, and non-government organizations. This includes communicating program requirements, conducting site visits to determine eligibility, and developing contract documents for applicants and participants of Farm Bill conservation programs. The position also involves reviewing plans and specifications for feasibility under Farm Bill program contract rules, conducting evaluations and conservation planning for new and re-enrolled contracts, and providing on-site technical assistance for conservation practice implementation. In addition to technical duties, the biologist will coordinate and conduct training sessions, workshops, and tours for landowners and resource professionals. The role requires excellent communication skills, the ability to work independently, and a strong background in wildlife ecology and habitat management. The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor of Science Degree in Wildlife Management or a closely related field, along with experience working with USDA Farm Bill programs. This position offers a unique opportunity to make a significant impact on wildlife conservation efforts in the region while working closely with landowners and agricultural producers.

Responsibilities
• Provide technical assistance and guidance to private landowners and government agencies regarding wildlife habitat management.
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• Communicate program requirements and complete site visits to determine eligibility for Farm Bill conservation programs.
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• Develop contract documents for applicants and participants of conservation programs.
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• Review plans and specifications for feasibility under Farm Bill program contract rules.
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• Conduct evaluations and conservation planning for new and re-enrolled contracts, including mid-contract management and maintenance evaluations.
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• Provide on-site technical assistance for conservation practice implementation.
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• Coordinate and conduct training sessions, workshops, and tours for landowners and resource professionals.
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• Work with local Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever chapters to assist with habitat program education and outreach.

Requirements
• Bachelor of Science Degree in Wildlife Management or closely related natural resources field is required.
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• Proven experience working with USDA Farm Bill programs is preferred.
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• Strong knowledge of wildlife ecology, grassland, wetland, and early succession habitat management.
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• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively with landowners and partner agency staff.
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• Strong organizational skills, time management, and attention to detail.
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• Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, and ArcGIS is required.
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• Valid driver's license and use of personal vehicle required.

Nice-to-haves
• Practical and/or professional experience in farming and agricultural disciplines is highly beneficial.
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• Specific knowledge of grassland/farmland associated wildlife species' habitat requirements is desirable.
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• Strong background in prescribed fire, both implementation and education.

Benefits
• Mileage reimbursement