Wildlife Conservation Specialist

4 days ago


Carrollton, Georgia, United States Pheasants Forever Full time
Job Overview

We are seeking a highly motivated Wildlife Conservation Specialist to join our team in Carrollton, GA.

About the Role

This position will coordinate and implement wildlife habitat conservation programs, providing technical assistance to private landowners to promote the Working Lands for Wildlife (WLFW) Bobwhite Quail Pine Savanna Project and Georgia Bobwhite Quail Initiative's (BQI) in Georgia.

Main Responsibilities
  • Provide technical assistance and guidance to private landowners, government agencies, non-government organizations, and other groups for USDA NRCS conservation programs.
  • Conduct population and habitat surveys, including spring breeding bird surveys, fall covey counts, vegetation surveys, and management of automated recording units (ARU) on private and conservation lands.
  • Coordinate the implementation and application of wildlife habitat programs within Georgia's Bobwhite Quail Initiative focal regions in cooperation with partner agencies.
  • Complete conservation plans, Implementation Requirements (IR's), Wildlife Habitat Evaluation Guides (WHEG's), and other required documentation for conservation programs requiring wildlife biologist expertise in cooperation with listed partners.
  • Communicate program requirements, conduct site visits to determine eligibility, and develop contract documents for applicants and participants of USDA-NRCS conservation programs and other local and state programs.
  • Accelerate conservation program enrollment by conducting outreach such as workshops, field days, learn n' burns, demonstration events, habitat tours, and social media.
  • Provide on-site landowner technical assistance for conservation habitat management implementation.
  • Work with local QF chapters to assist with habitat program education and outreach and provide technical assistance for habitat projects.
Requirements

To be successful in this role, you will need:

  • A Bachelor's Degree in Wildlife Management, Natural Resource Management, Forestry, or related degree from an accredited university with an emphasis on forest ecosystem management and coursework and/or experience integrating wildlife management principles into pine-dominated ecosystems.
  • Knowledge of Southeast wildlife ecology, forest, and grassland management, including methods of habitat management in developing management plans.
  • Knowledge of biology and habitat requirements for bobwhite quail, whitetail deer, turkey, and other wildlife species.
  • Knowledge of conservation and wildlife programs provided by federal, state, and local entities.
  • Ability to communicate clearly and effectively with landowners and partner agencies.
  • Ability to work independently and with diverse clientele, being a motivated self-starter with strong interpersonal skills.
  • 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.).
  • Able to obtain USDA Security Clearance and NRCS Conservation Planning certification.
  • Valid driver's license required.
Benefits

We offer a competitive salary and benefits package, including:

  • Estimated annual salary: $45,000 (commensurate with qualifications and experience)
  • Health, vision, dental, and more insurance coverage plans available.
  • 401(k) Retirement plan with an employer match of up to 5%.
  • Technology Stipend and Vehicle Stipend provided to eligible employees.
  • 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.