SD Farm Bill Wildlife Biologist I, II, or III

• Provide technical assistance (wildlife habitat focus) and guidance to private landowners, government agencies, non-government organizations and other groups primarily through federal Farm Bill programs and other available wildlife habitat programs. Training provided jointly by NRCS, SD GFP, and PF & QF.
• Prepare conservation plans, conservation plan modifications, job sheets/implementation requirements, prescribed burn plans, status reviews, wildlife habitat evaluation guides (WHEG), activity reports, contract documents, and other relevant work products and documents requiring biological expertise.
• Communicate technical and program requirements and conduct contract coordination, site assessments, eligibility determinations, and training sessions for landowners and resource professionals. 
• Accelerate conservation program enrollment and public awareness by conducting outreach such as workshops, field days, demonstration events, and habitat tours.
• Meet with local PF & QF chapters and other local partners to coordinate and support habitat management efforts and participate in local and statewide habitat meetings and trainings.
• Meet regularly with PF & QF, NRCS and SD GFP staff to coordinate technical assistance efforts and for resource training.
• Promote and implement specific conservation programs to improve wildlife habitat and public access.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively with landowners and partner agency staff.
• Ability to work independently with little supervision and with diverse clientele.
• Knowledge of wildlife ecology, grassland, wetland and early succession habitat establishment and management, including the ability to utilize various habitat management tools in the development of management plans.
• Specific knowledge of grassland/farmland associated wildlife species’ habitat requirements is desirable along with plant identification of native, non-native, and invasive grasses, forbs, trees, and shrubs.
• Knowledge of conservation and wildlife programs provided through the Farm Bill, as well as other federal, state, & local entities.  In addition, knowledge of how these programs are implemented in an agricultural landscape is desired.
• Knowledge of agricultural landscapes, common farming and land use practices, and basic agricultural economics is desirable.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong organizational skills, time management, and attention to detail.
• Valid driver’s license required; use of personal vehicle required with a mileage reimbursement and vehicle stipend provided. Current rate is $.67 per mile with periodic adjustments relative to the IRS rate. Expect to drive 6,000 to 10,000 miles annually.
• Must be able to obtain USDA Federal Security Clearance.

• Health, vision, dental and more insurance coverage plans available.
• 401(k) Retirement plan with an employer match of up to 5%.
• Student Loan Assistance program of up to $200/month for eligible employees.
• Vehicle Stipend of up to $300/month for eligible employees.
• Paid Time Off accrued at 15 days (120 hours) per year for new employees (increasing after 3 years).
• Bereavement/Family/Sick Leave of 6 days (48 hours) per year.
• 13 Paid holidays.

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