Farm Bill Biologist II- Kentucky

Application Deadline: May 1st, 2024

Start Date:  ASAP       

Overview: In partnership with the USDA-Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), these Farm Bill Wildlife Biologists will coordinate and implement wildlife habitat-related conservation programs and provide technical assistance within the Working Lands for Wildlife (WLFW) Northern Bobwhite, Grasslands and Savannas Framework. This position will be an employee of and supervised by Pheasants Forever, Inc. and Quail Forever (PF & QF), with daily instruction, quality assurance, training, and workload prioritization provided by NRCS and the PF & QF State Coordinator. The position’s final location will be negotiated at time of employment offer but will include 2 positions within NRCS Area 1, 1 position in NRCS Area 2, and 1 position in Area 3 (see attached map).  Each position will provide service to multiple counties within the assigned NRCS Area.  These individuals will work in joint capacity with partner agencies to promote, coordinate and implement conservation provisions of the Federal Farm Bill on private lands, with primary focus on the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP), and Environmental Quality Incentive Program (EQIP) WLFW. Conservation delivery may also involve other relevant Farm Bill programs such as general EQIP, ACEP WRE, and the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP), as well as state and local habitat programs and initiatives.  General duties will include all aspects of wildlife habitat planning, contract coordination, conservation plan writing, site assessment/eligibility determination, practice certification, program promotion/outreach, landowner technical assistance, and reporting.  

Specific Duties:

• Provide technical assistance (wildlife habitat focus) and guidance to private landowners, government agencies, non-government organizations and other groups for USDA NRCS conservation programs. Training provided jointly by NRCS, and QF.
• Coordinate the implementation and application of wildlife habitat programs within the focal regions in cooperation with partner agencies.
• Complete conservation plans, Implementation Requirements Sheets (IR’s), wildlife habitat evaluation guides (WHEG) and other required documentation for the conservation programs requiring biological expertise in cooperation with the listed partners.
• Communicate program requirements, complete site visits to determine eligibility, and develop contract documents for applicants and participants of USDA-NRCS conservation programs and other local and state programs.
• Review plans and specifications for feasibility for implementation under Farm Bill program contract rules, etc.
• Participate in outcomes assessments consisting of vegetation surveys and Fall/ Spring bird counts.
• Accelerate conservation program enrollment by conducting outreach such as workshops, field days, demonstration events, and habitat tours.
• Provide on-site landowner technical assistance for conservation practice implementation.
• Work with local QF chapters to assist with habitat program education and outreach and provide technical assistance for habitat projects.

Desired Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively with landowners and partner agencies.
• Ability to work independently and with diverse clientele. Must be a motivated self-starter with strong interpersonal skills.
• Ability to learn and identify bird calls.
• Knowledge of, and/or practical experience with silviculture and prescribed fire as it relates to timber management and production in the Southeastern US.
• Knowledge of wildlife ecology, forest and grassland management including the ability to utilize various habitat management tools in the development of management plans.
• Knowledge of conservation and wildlife programs provided by federal (i.e., Farm Bill, US Fish and Wildlife Service), state, & local entities.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong organizational skills, with demonstrated ability to manage demanding workloads.
• Proficiency with ArcGIS, GPS, Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook, etc.)
• Valid driver’s license required; 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 Bachelor of Science Degree in Wildlife Management, Forestry, or closely related natural resources field is required. Proven experience working with USDA Farm Bill programs is preferred. At least 2 years of professional experience are required for a Farm Bill Biologist II. The ideal candidate will exhibit a balance of technical knowledge and interpersonal skills required to implement voluntary conservation programs on private lands. A successful applicant must enjoy working with private landowners to achieve their objectives. Demonstrated interest, training, and experience in both forestry and wildlife is also ideal.

Salary: $45,000 + benefits including 401k match and Student Loan Assistance option.