Farm Bill Wildlife Biologist I/II/III - South Dakota

The Farm Bill Wildlife Biologist I/II/III position at Pheasants Forever And Quail Forever in Tyndall, SD involves coordinating wildlife conservation programs with various stakeholders. Responsibilities include providing technical assistance, conducting site assessments, and completing conservation program documentation. The role requires a Bachelor’s degree in Wildlife Management or a related field, strong knowledge of wildlife ecology, and excellent communication skills. Active participation in local chapters and habitat management efforts is essential.
About the position

The Farm Bill Wildlife Biologist I/II/III position is a collaborative role that involves working closely with the South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP), the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), and local Pheasants Forever chapters. The primary focus of this position is to coordinate and implement wildlife-related conservation programs while providing technical assistance to various stakeholders. The successful candidate will engage in habitat planning, contract coordination, and the writing of conservation plans, as well as conducting site assessments and reporting on program outcomes. This role is essential in promoting and implementing the conservation provisions of the Federal Farm Bill and other wildlife conservation initiatives. In this position, the biologist will provide technical assistance with a focus on biological sciences to private landowners, government agencies, and non-governmental organizations. The role requires a strong understanding of wildlife ecology, wetland and grassland management, and the ability to utilize various habitat management tools effectively. The biologist will also be responsible for completing contracts and applications for conservation programs, ensuring that all documentation is accurate and submitted in a timely manner. Communication with landowners and partner agencies is crucial, as the biologist will need to convey program requirements, conduct site visits, and develop contracts and plans for program participants. The position also involves active participation in local Pheasants Forever chapters and habitat management efforts, as well as involvement in county and statewide habitat meetings. The biologist will be expected to implement specific conservation programs aimed at improving wildlife habitat, thereby contributing to the overall mission of Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever to enhance wildlife populations and their habitats across South Dakota.

Responsibilities
• Coordinate and implement wildlife-related conservation programs in partnership with GFP, NRCS, and local Pheasants Forever chapters.
,
• Provide technical assistance and guidance to private landowners and government agencies for USDA NRCS Conservation Programs, especially Grassland CRP.
,
• Complete contracts, applications, and required documentation for conservation programs requiring biological expertise.
,
• Communicate program requirements and conduct site visits to determine eligibility for conservation programs.
,
• Develop contracts and plans for applicants/participants in USDA NRCS Conservation Programs and other local and state programs.
,
• Participate in local Pheasants Forever chapter meetings to influence habitat management efforts.
,
• Implement specific conservation programs to improve wildlife habitat.

Requirements
• Bachelor of Science Degree in Wildlife Management or closely related natural resources field is required.
,
• Knowledge of wildlife ecology, wetland and grassland management.
,
• Understanding of livestock and conservation grazing systems.
,
• Knowledge of conservation and wildlife programs provided by federal, state, and local entities.
,
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
,
• Strong organizational skills.
,
• Ability to work independently with little supervision and with diverse clientele.
,
• Valid driver's license required; some use of personal vehicle required.

Nice-to-haves
• Experience with USDA NRCS Conservation Programs.
,
• Familiarity with habitat management tools and techniques.
,
• Ability to obtain USDA Federal Security Clearance.

Benefits
• Starting salary of $40,000-$49,000 depending on experience.
,
• Mileage reimbursement for use of personal vehicle.
,
• Comprehensive benefits package as detailed on the Pheasants Forever website.