Wetland Biologist (1 Position)

Great Lakes Atlantic Region: USDA Service Center – Illinois

Full-Time, Term Ducks Unlimited Position
December 2026 – 2030 (Position expected to be extended beyond 2030, funding dependent)
Application Deadline: November 30, 2026 (Open until filled)
Position Location: Anna, IL - USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Office

Position Overview

Ducks Unlimited, Inc. (DU), in partnership with the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), is seeking a Wetland Biologist to support wetland conservation and restoration activities throughout Illinois. The selected candidate will work as part of a collaborative partnership team delivering wetland conservation easements, restoration projects, and Farm Bill conservation programs on private lands.

The Wetland Biologist will provide biological and technical expertise to advance wetland conservation, wildlife habitat enhancement, and natural resource management objectives. The position will assist with the delivery of the Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP), specifically the Wetland Reserve Easement (WRE) component, while supporting 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 other stakeholders to develop and implement wetland restoration, enhancement, and management projects. The position requires knowledge of wetlands, invasive species management, threatened and endangered species considerations, environmental compliance requirements, and wildlife habitat management as they relate to NRCS conservation programs and Farm Bill implementation.

The Wetland Biologist will be a full-time employee of Ducks Unlimited and will work in close coordination with Illinois NRCS staff while adhering to all applicable federal, state, and organizational policies, procedures, and directives. This position offers opportunities for professional growth, specialized training, and mentorship while contributing to landscape-scale conservation efforts across Illinois.

Specific Duties and Responsibilities

(Approximate)

60% – Technical Assistance & Conservation Delivery

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

30% – Program Support & Reporting

• Provide leadership and coordination in planning and conducting wildlife, plant, and wetland studies, investigations, and data collection efforts.
• Assist with applications, contracts, reporting requirements, and program documentation.
• Serve on interdisciplinary teams supporting conservation planning and program delivery.
• Receive, disseminate, and assist with implementation of National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) guidance and requirements.
• Provide training, technical guidance, and support to NRCS field staff on environmental compliance and biological resource concerns.
• Prepare monthly, quarterly, and special progress reports documenting accomplishments, landowner assistance, acres impacted, and project status.
• Compile and analyze biological and conservation data using available technology and GIS tools where appropriate.
• Participate in state, regional, and national meetings, trainings, workshops, and teleconferences.

10% – Professional Development & Innovation

• Maintain current knowledge of technical developments in wetland ecology, wildlife biology, restoration science, and conservation program delivery.
• Promote efficiencies through the use of technology, data management systems, and innovative conservation techniques.
• Participate in professional training opportunities to expand expertise in wetland systems, habitat management, and conservation planning.
• Assist with conservation outreach events, workshops, and partner training efforts.

Minimum Education and Experience Requirements

• 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 preferred.
• Experience with private lands conservation programs, habitat restoration projects, or Farm Bill programs is highly desirable.
• Combination of office and extensive field work required.
• Ability to travel throughout Illinois; occasional overnight travel may be required.
• Ability to work outdoors in remote locations and under adverse weather conditions.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• 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), preferred.
• Experience developing and implementing habitat management and restoration plans.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.
• Experience with ArcGIS, GPS technology, and conservation planning tools preferred.
• 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 required; willingness to use a personal vehicle for mileage reimbursement when a fleet vehicle is unavailable.

Benefits/Pay: Salary will be based on experience and education. Typical starting salary ranges from $54,360-$58,000 per year. This position is classified as exempt. DU offers an exceptional benefit package, including comprehensive group medical, prescription, dental and vision insurance, including spouse and dependent coverage; three weeks paid vacation, paid sick leave, and ten paid holidays; 401(k) plan (including partial employer match); and tuition reimbursement.

Application Information: Please complete all application materials and attach your resume, cover letter, and three professional references. Applications will be accepted through Nov 30, 2026, or until a qualified applicant is identified.