SC Farm Bill Wildlife Biologist II

Location: USDA-NRCS office Bishopville, SC

Application Deadline: Open until Filled

Anticipated Start Date: August 2025

Overview: In partnership with the USDA-Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) and the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, this Farm Bill Wildlife Biologist will coordinate and implement wildlife habitat-related conservation programs and provide technical assistance within a multi-county area of northeastern SC (Chesterfield, Darlington, Dillon, Lancaster, Lee, Marlboro, Sumter). This position will be headquartered in USDA Service Centers and work collaboratively with the local USDA-NRCS staff in each of the listed counties. This individual will work in joint capacity with partner agencies to promote, coordinate and implement conservation practices of the Federal Farm Bill on private lands, with primary focus on the Environmental Quality Incentives program (EQIP), Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP), and the Working Lands for Wildlife (WLFW) Bobwhite Program. Conservation delivery may also involve other relevant Farm Bill programs 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.

Job 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, SCDNR, and QF.
• Coordinate the implementation and application of wildlife habitat programs within the focal regions in cooperation with partner agencies.
• Complete conservation plans, job sheets, 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.
• Conduct bird and vegetation/habitat surveys as part of the Working Lands for Wildlife Outcomes Assessments.
• 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
• Review/certify federal cost-share practices for compliance.
• Assist landowners with prescribed burns and other conservation practices.
• Work with local QF chapters to assist with habitat program education and outreach and provide technical assistance for habitat projects.

Required Knowledge Skills and Abilities:

• 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, forest management, 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/shrubland 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.
• Knowledge of agricultural landscapes, common farming and land use practices, and basic agricultural economics is desirable.
• Prescribed fire training is preferred.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong organizational skills, time management, and attention to detail.
• Proficiency with ArcPro is highly desired.
• Valid driver’s license required; use of personal vehicle required with a mileage reimbursement.
• Must be able to obtain USDA Federal Security Clearance.

Education and Experience Preferred:  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 or closely related natural resources field is required. At least 2 years of relevant professional experience are required to qualify for a Farm Bill Biologist II. Proven experience working with USDA Farm Bill programs is preferred. The ideal candidate will exhibit a balance of technical knowledge and interpersonal skills required to implement voluntary conservation programs on private lands. Practical and/or professional experience in forestry, farming and agricultural disciplines is highly beneficial. The successful applicant must enjoy working with private landowners and producers to achieve their conservation objectives.

Salary Range: $42,000 to $44,000 (commensurate with experience) with annual performance-based raises, plus benefits include:

• 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.