Application Deadline: October 31, 2024

Anticipated Start Date: December 2024

As an employee of Pheasants Forever Inc. (PF) the incumbent will work closely with Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS), local PF chapters, and other conservation organizations. To promote, accelerate, coordinate and implement a variety of wildlife programs. Those programs include but are not limited to Federal Farm Bill programs (e.g., EQIP&CRP), CPW wildlife programs, and PF programs. Activities will include program promotions, contracting, contract modifications, site assessments, and program rankings. The incumbent will work closely with local PF chapters to provide wildlife related technical assistance. The incumbent will be supervised by PF State Coordinator and receive daily direction from NRCS.

*Note this position is a conservation planning position with a mix of office and field work.  

Duties:

• Provide technical assistance (wildlife biology and range conservation focus) and guidance to landowners, government agencies, non-government organizations (NGO’s). Training provided by NRCS, Pheasants Forever and other local and state agencies.
• Coordinate integration and application of biological sciences within the conservation programs in cooperation with NRCS and others consistent with the Field Office Technical Guide.
• Complete conservation plans and maps, contracts, applications, and other required documentation for Farm Bill conservation programs (i.e., EQIP, ACEP, CRP and WRP) requiring biological and rangeland science expertise in cooperation with the partners.
• Communicate program requirements, complete site visits to determine eligibility, and develop contracts/plans for applicants enrolling in USDA conservation programs or other state and local conservation programs for the protection, restoration, and enhancement of sage grouse habitat.
• Coordinate and participate in field work activities for wildlife habitat project implementation and work with agricultural producers.
• Build relationships and ensure communication occurs with agency and non-profit organization partners to deliver and enhance conservation programs that mutually benefit landowner operations and wildlife habitats.

• Perform other related duties as assigned

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Strong communication and teamwork skills and willingness to engage with others individually and in groups.
• Ability to work independently with little supervision.
• Knowledge of wildlife ecology, riparian and grassland management including the ability to utilize various habitat management tools and techniques in the development of habitat management plans.
• Knowledge of conservation and wildlife programs provided by Federal Farm Bill.
• Ability to apply and use GIS tools (i.e., GPS, mapping programs, etc.).
• Knowledge of Public Land Surveying System (PLSS) and map reading.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong organizational skills.
• Ability to work in extreme weather conditions.
• Valid driver’s license required; work vehicle provided; some use of personal vehicle required (mileage reimbursement provided).
• Must be able to obtain USDA Federal Security Clearance.

Training and Experience Guideline: Any combination of training and/or experience that will enable the applicant to possess the required knowledge, skills and abilities.  A general qualification guideline for this position is a Bachelor of Science Degree in Wildlife Management, Range Management, or closely related natural resources field and/or related field experience. Experience working with private landowners and wildlife habitat planning is highly desirable.

Pay and Benefits:

• Starting pay $21 per hour (Commensurate with qualifications). Overtime pay opportunities.
• 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.
• 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.
• An Employee Benefit Summary can be found www.pheasantsforever.org

Pheasants Forever, Inc is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, status as a protected veteran, status as a qualified individual with disability, or any other category that may be protected by law.