Wetland Biologist in Olney, Illinois at Ducks Unlimited, Inc.

Wetland Biologist

Department/Division: Great Lakes Atlantic Region (GLAR)
Reports To: Regional Biologist / Conservation Programs Supervisor
FLSA Status: Exempt
Employment Status: Full-Time, Term Position

Location: Flexible - Marion, Olney, or Belleville, Illinois
Work Arrangement: On-site / Field-Based
Reporting Office: USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Service Center – Illinois

Ducks Unlimited, Inc. (DU), in partnership with the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), seeks a Wetland Biologist to support wetland conservation and restoration efforts throughout Illinois. The selected candidate will serve as a member of a collaborative conservation team delivering wetland restoration projects, conservation easements, wildlife habitat enhancements, and Farm Bill conservation programs on private lands.

The Wetland Biologist will provide biological and technical expertise to advance wetland conservation, natural resource management, and wildlife habitat objectives. Primary responsibilities include supporting the Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP), specifically the Wetland Reserve Easement (WRE) component, and assisting with conservation planning efforts that improve wetland function, water quality, and habitat for migratory birds, waterfowl, shorebirds, marsh birds, songbirds, and other wildlife species.

The incumbent will work closely with NRCS field offices, private landowners, conservation partners, and stakeholders to develop and implement wetland restoration, enhancement, and management projects throughout Illinois. This position offers opportunities for professional growth, specialized training, and mentorship while contributing to landscape-scale conservation initiatives.

The Wetland Biologist will be a full-time employee of Ducks Unlimited, Inc. and will work in close coordination with Illinois NRCS staff while adhering to all federal, state, and organizational policies and procedures.

• Provide direct technical assistance for implementation of the Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP), including the Wetland Reserve Easement (WRE) component.
• Assist private landowners with wetland restoration, enhancement, creation, management, and wetland determinations associated with Farm Bill and other conservation programs.
• Conduct site visits, field assessments, and evaluations to determine project feasibility, eligibility, and potential conservation outcomes.
• Develop wetland habitat management plans and recommend conservation practices that promote desired plant communities, wildlife populations, and ecosystem functionality.
• Apply knowledge of wetland ecology, hydrology, vegetation communities, and wildlife habitat requirements to restoration planning and implementation.
• Assist with tree planting plans, native grass establishment, moist-soil management, emergent marsh management, and water-level management strategies.
• Conduct monitoring and evaluation of wetland restoration projects and conservation easements.
• Prepare Compatible Use Authorizations (CUAs) and other required program documentation.
• Coordinate with NRCS staff and conservation partners to maximize soil, water, and wildlife benefits associated with conservation projects.
• Promote participation in USDA Farm Bill conservation programs and private lands conservation initiatives.
• Assist with wetland management workshops, outreach efforts, and educational opportunities.

• Provide leadership and coordination for wildlife, vegetation, and wetland studies, investigations, and data collection activities.
• Assist with applications, contracts, reporting requirements, and program documentation.
• Participate on interdisciplinary teams supporting conservation planning and program delivery.
• Assist with implementation of National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) guidance and environmental compliance requirements.
• Provide training, technical guidance, and biological expertise to NRCS field staff.
• Prepare monthly, quarterly, annual, and special reports documenting accomplishments, landowner assistance, project status, and conservation outcomes.
• Compile, maintain, and analyze biological and conservation data utilizing available technology and GIS tools.
• Participate in state, regional, and national meetings, workshops, trainings, and conference calls.

• Maintain current knowledge of advancements in wetland ecology, wildlife biology, restoration science, and conservation program delivery.
• Promote efficiencies through technology, data management systems, and innovative conservation approaches.
• Participate in professional development opportunities to expand expertise in wetland systems and conservation planning.
• Support conservation outreach events, workshops, and partner training efforts.

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Wildlife Biology, Fisheries Biology, Ecology, Natural Resources, Conservation Biology, Agriculture, Environmental Science, or a closely related field.

Experience:

• Minimum of two years of professional experience in wetland management, restoration, ecology, wildlife management, or related natural resource disciplines preferred.
• Experience with private lands conservation programs, habitat restoration projects, or USDA Farm Bill programs is highly desirable.

Licenses/Certifications:

• Valid driver's license required.

Additional Requirements:

• Ability to travel extensively throughout Illinois.
• Ability to conduct extensive field work in remote locations and under adverse weather conditions.
• Ability to work independently while maintaining productive partnerships with landowners, agency personnel, and conservation organizations.

• Familiarity with USDA Farm Bill conservation programs, including Wetland Reserve Easements (WRE).
• Experience developing and implementing habitat management and restoration plans.
• Experience using ArcGIS, GPS technology, and conservation planning tools.
• Knowledge of environmental compliance requirements and NEPA processes.
• Experience working with private landowners and conservation partnerships.

• 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.
• Strong knowledge of conservation planning and habitat restoration principles.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.
• Experience with GIS mapping software and GPS technologies preferred.
• Strong organizational, analytical, and project management skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to effectively communicate with landowners, agency personnel, and conservation partners.
• Ability to safely operate four-wheel-drive vehicles, UTVs/ATVs, trailers, and other field equipment.

• Ability to conduct extensive outdoor fieldwork in varying weather and environmental conditions.
• Ability to walk long distances over uneven terrain, wetlands, agricultural lands, and restoration sites.
• Ability to operate field equipment and navigate remote project locations.
• Ability to lift and carry equipment and supplies necessary for field operations.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.

Estimated Percentage of Travel: 30–50%

Type of Travel: Primarily day travel throughout Illinois with occasional overnight travel.

Valid Driver's License Required: Yes

A willingness to use a personal vehicle with reimbursement when fleet vehicles are unavailable is required.

Salary Range: $54,360 – $58,000 annually

Salary will be based on education and experience.

DU offers an exceptional benefits package, including comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance; spouse and dependent coverage; three weeks paid vacation; paid sick leave; ten paid holidays; 401(k) plan with employer match; and tuition reimbursement.

Position Duration: December 2026 through 2030 (position expected to be extended beyond 2030, funding dependent).

Application Deadline: November 30, 2026 (Open Until Filled)

To Apply: Please complete all application materials and attach:

• Resume
• Cover Letter
• Three Professional References

Applications will be accepted through November 30, 2026, or until a qualified candidate is identified.