SD Habitat Specialist

Application Deadline: Open until filled

Anticipated Start Date: January 2025  

Overview: This full-time position is part of a partnership between South Dakota Game, Fish & Parks (SDGFP) and Pheasants Forever, Inc (PF). The incumbent will conduct habitat management work on public wildlife management areas as a full-time, permanent employees of Pheasants Forever and will receive daily leadership from SDGFP Field Managers. The position will be based at the Game Fish and Parks regional office in Watertown, SD.

Duties: Incumbent will assist with all aspects of managing the assigned wildlife management area. Major responsibilities include:

• Directing, and implementing habitat management work on public wildlife areas.
• Procuring supplies and equipment.
• Participating in the construction, maintenance and repair of facilities, farm equipment & implements, parking areas, and roads.
• Coordinating agricultural permits to insure positive benefits for wildlife.
• Habitat management work may include site preparation, planting, management of food plots, diverse native seedings and dense nesting cover, shrub or shelterbelt plantings. Tree removal and prescribed fire.
• Participating in scientific field studies and surveys.
• Participating in training and evaluation of seasonal employees.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• A basic understanding of environmental, agricultural and/or natural resource science. Education is not a substitute for experience.  Field and equipment experience are important.  Preference will be given to candidates that possess a bachelor’s degree with an emphasis in wildlife management.
• Excellent background in the operation, maintenance, and transportation of farm equipment.
• Prescribed fire experience and training is very important.
• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively with colleagues and partner agencies.
• Ability to work independently with little supervision.
• Knowledge of wildlife ecology, wetland and grassland management including the ability to utilize various habitat management equipment and tools in the development of wildlife habitat.
• Excellent verbal/written communication and organizational skills.
• Successful applicants must also possess or be able to acquire a South Dakota CDL Operators License and an Herbicide Applicators License.

Training and Experience Guideline: Any combination of training and/or experience that will enable the applicant to possess the required knowledge, skills, and abilities. One year of work experience in a wildlife management related job. A general qualification guideline for this position is a Bachelor of Science Degree in Wildlife Management or closely related natural resources field and/or related field experience.