WV Division of Natural Resources/Natural Resource Conservation Service Partner Avian Biologist

Location: White Hall, West Virginia

Start date: November-December 2024

Scope of work:

Under general supervision of NRCS District Conservationist and WVDNR State Ornithologist, conduct professional-level work related to Farm Bill implementation and outreach, management, research, and conservation of cerulean warbler and other nongame and game birds on private and public lands in West Virginia, and additional duties as assigned.

Primary duties include:

• Assisting in private landowner outreach, education, and service pertaining to priority species
• Development and oversight of management plans on private lands based on established best management practices
• Administration of NRCS contracts
• Pursuing management opportunities on public and private lands - e.g., wildlife management areas, state forests, national forests as well as private lands within species focal areas. Pre- and post-treatment species survey and monitoring
• Professional development and education (e.g., participating in forest stewardship training workshops) related to focal species as well as farm bill opportunities
• Participate in multi-agency planning teams and the Appalachian Mountains Joint Venture Technical Committee
• Up to 2-3 weeks/year, assist WVDNR with (1) annual surveys and monitoring of Species of Greatest Conservation Need, (2) conduct Breeding Bird Surveys, (3) assist in providing technical assistance to private landowners related to SGCN habitat enhancement, (4) prepare annual project and progress reports and statistics, and (5) assist staff with reporting
• Other duties as assigned

Preferred qualifications:

• Bachelor’s or graduate degree (preferred) in wildlife biology or related field, or commensurate work, with a focus on birds
• Excellent networking and communication skills in a broad range of contexts
• Experience with project management and coordination
• Understanding of silvicultural practices, habitat management, and conservation implementation
• Experience with diverse field survey/monitoring methods and equipment
• Ability to identify by sight and sound all bird species native to the Central Appalachians
• Ability to identify Appalachian plants and forest communities
• Skill with MS Office, ArcGIS, and other software tools

Term and Compensation:

• Compensation is $16/hour with guaranteed annual raise for up to 5 years
• Position is year-round, 40 hours/week
• Ad hoc telework is permitted with approval
• Health insurance is available

Position is funded through 2025, with very high likelihood of extension beyond this date.