Wetland Biologist
$54,360–$56,000 year
On-siteFort Wayne, Indiana, United States or Huntington, Indiana, United States
Job Summary
Conduct site visits and field assessments to determine project feasibility for wetland restoration, enhancement, and management activities on private lands. Assist landowners with wetland determination, creation, and implementation of habitat management plans while developing Compatible Use Authorizations under the Wetland Reserve Easement Program. Provide technical guidance on tree planting, native grass establishment, and water-level strategies, then monitor and evaluate project outcomes to assess effectiveness. Coordinate with NRCS staff and stakeholders to deliver Agricultural Conservation Easement Program services, prepare progress reports, and facilitate outreach training. Requires full-time work combining office duties with extensive field operations, including occasional overnight travel and adverse weather conditions.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Wildlife Biology, Fisheries Biology, Ecology, Natural Resources, Conservation Biology, Agriculture, Environmental Science, or a closely related field
- Minimum of two years of professional experience in wetland management, restoration, ecology, wildlife management, or related natural resource disciplines
- Experience with private lands conservation programs, habitat restoration projects, or Farm Bill programs
- Combination of office and extensive field work
- Ability to travel throughout Indiana; occasional overnight travel may be required
- Ability to work outdoors in remote locations and under adverse weather conditions
- Working knowledge of wetland ecology, hydrology, and wetland-associated plant and animal communities
- Knowledge of wildlife habitat management principles, particularly for migratory birds and waterfowl
- Understanding of federal and state regulations related to wetlands, threatened and endangered species, invasive species, and environmental compliance
- Familiarity with USDA Farm Bill conservation programs, including Wetland Reserve Easements (WRE)
- Experience developing and implementing habitat management and restoration plans
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications
- Strong organizational and project management skills
- Ability to work independently while maintaining effective collaboration with agency personnel, landowners, and conservation partners
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to safely operate four-wheel-drive vehicles, UTVs/ATVs, trailers, and other field equipment
- Valid driver's license
- Willingness to use a personal vehicle for mileage reimbursement when a fleet vehicle is unavailable
Desired Qualifications
- Experience with private lands conservation programs, habitat restoration projects, or Farm Bill programs is highly desirable
- Familiarity with USDA Farm Bill conservation programs, including Wetland Reserve Easements (WRE), preferred
- Experience with ArcGIS, GPS technology, and conservation planning tools preferred
Hiring someone like this?
Get your role in front of qualified candidates on Sorce.