Private Lands Biologist

About the role

Ducks Unlimited, Inc. (DU) is seeking to hire one (1) Private Lands Biologist to deliver conservation programs and technical assistance to private landowners and agricultural producers throughout Southeast Missouri and Southern Illinois. The successful candidate will work directly with landowners to promote waterfowl habitat, pollinator habitat, native grasslands, wildlife habitat diversity, wetland restoration and regenerative agricultural practices that improve soil health, water quality, and working lands conservation. The Private Lands Biologist will be integrated into DU's team of biologists, engineers, GIS specialists, and conservation partners to deliver voluntary conservation programs across the region. This position will build relationships with landowners, agricultural partners, state and federal agencies, and other conservation organizations to develop and implement conservation practices that benefit wildlife and agricultural sustainability. A unique component of this position is the opportunity to support conservation efforts within the Mississippi Alluvial Valley and Lower Mississippi River Watershed, working across private agricultural landscapes to increase habitat connectivity, improve water quality, support wetland restoration, and deliver Farm Bill conservation programs. The selected candidate will play a key role in promoting and implementing conservation practices that improve landscape resiliency while maintaining productive agricultural operations. Preferred location is Jackson, Missouri, with flexibility throughout Southeast Missouri or Southern Illinois. The position will work remotely from a home office and travel frequently throughout the service area to complete program delivery responsibilities.

Responsibilities

• Provide one-on-one technical assistance to private landowners and agricultural producers.
• Promote pollinator habitat, native grasslands, field borders, buffers, wetland restoration, and other wildlife-friendly conservation practices.
• Develop conservation plans that enhance wildlife habitat while supporting agricultural productivity.
• Promote regenerative agriculture practices, soil health principles, and water quality improvement practices.
• Coordinate implementation of Farm Bill conservation programs, including CRP, EQIP, CSP, ACEP, RCPP, and other available funding opportunities.
• Conduct site assessments, habitat evaluations, and conservation planning activities.
• Organize and deliver workshops, field days, landowner meetings, and outreach events.
• Coordinate with NRCS, USDA partners, Missouri Department of Conservation, Illinois Department of Natural Resources, local Soil and Water Conservation Districts, conservation organizations, and agricultural stakeholders.
• Maintain project records, reporting requirements, and contract documentation.
• Participate in regional conservation planning efforts and other Ducks Unlimited initiatives as assigned.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in wildlife management, biology, ecology, range management, agronomy, agriculture, natural resources, or a related field from an accredited university.
• Two or more years of