Private Lands Biologist (West-Central Illinois)

September 2026–2029 (position expected to be extended, funding dependent). Flexible within west-central or central Illinois; remote home office with frequent travel throughout the region.

About the role

Ducks Unlimited, Inc. (DU) is seeking one Private Lands Biologist to deliver conservation programs and technical assistance to private landowners and agricultural producers throughout west-central Illinois. The successful candidate will work directly with landowners to promote pollinator habitat, native grasslands, wildlife habitat diversity, and regenerative agricultural practices that improve soil health, water quality, and working lands conservation. This position integrates into DU’s team of biologists, engineers, GIS specialists, and conservation partners to deliver voluntary conservation programs across the region.

Responsibilities

• Provide one-on-one technical assistance to private landowners and agricultural producers.
• Promote and implement pollinator habitat, native grasslands, field borders, buffers, and other wildlife-friendly conservation practices.
• Develop conservation plans that enhance habitat diversity 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, 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, IL Department of Agriculture, USDA partners, local 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.

Requirements

• Bachelor’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 professional experience related to conservation program delivery, habitat management, agriculture, agronomy, or wildlife management.
• Experience working directly with private landowners and agricultural producers.
• Knowledge of regenerative agriculture systems, soil health principles, wetlands, and conservation planning.
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with diverse partners and stakeholders.
• Willingness to travel frequently, including occasional overnight travel.
• Ability to conduct field work in varying weather and terrain conditions.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to travel throughout the service area.

Skills

• Strong communication and relationship-building skills.
• Knowledge of Illinois agricultural systems and conservation programs.
• Familiarity with USDA Farm Bill programs including CRP, EQIP, CSP, and ACEP.
• Understanding of pollinator habitat establishment and management.
• Knowledge of grassland and wetland conservation practices.
• Experience developing and delivering conservation management plans.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office; GIS experience preferred.
• Excellent organizational skills and ability to manage multiple projects.
• Experience presenting technical information to landowners and professional audiences.

Benefits

• 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 with partial employer match.
• Tuition reimbursement.

Pay

Typical starting salary ranges from $56,920–$60,000 per year, based on experience and education. This position is classified as exempt.