Wildlife Specialist

Placer County’s Agriculture, Parks, and Natural Resources Department is seeking a Wildlife Specialist to join its dedicated team. This role is part of the department’s Wildlife Services program, which helps residents address wildlife-related concerns and provides expert guidance on behavior modification, repellents, exclusion methods, and habitat management.

As a Wildlife Specialist, you’ll play a vital role in educating the public on integrated pest management strategies while helping resolve conflicts with local wildlife. Responsibilities include trapping nuisance animals like skunks, raccoons, and opossums in both urban and rural areas. Additionally, you’ll respond to depredation cases involving livestock and pets threatened by predators such as coyotes, mountain lions, and bears. The role also involves managing issues related to wild pigs and beavers, whose dam-building activities can lead to flooding and property damage.

This is a unique opportunity to make a real impact in Placer County by protecting both its wildlife and its residents.

This position requires strong customer service skills and a solid foundation in wildlife management. The role involves safely and effectively using animal traps, firearms, snares, and other equipment to manage dangerous or injured wildlife. Proficiency with computers is also important.

Countywide travel is a key part of the job, sometimes involving towing a trailer. The position often requires operating four-wheel drive or all-terrain vehicles on rough terrain, including snow, mud, and gravel. Work may take place during evenings or nights. Regular interaction with the public and partner agencies is expected, making effective communication and interpersonal skills essential.

Firearms are used frequently in this role, and employees may be required to use personal firearms, including a centerfire rifle, a 12-gauge repeating shotgun, and a .22 long rifle. Ammunition is provided.

Employment is contingent upon passing a thorough background investigation, which may include a pre-employment psychological evaluation, drug screening, and medical clearance exam.