Regional Biologist II - New England Coast

Ducks Unlimited, Inc., the world’s leading wetland and waterfowl conservation organization, seeks a highly motivated biologist to join our Coastal Conservation Team. This full-time, salaried position will work with a team of biologists, engineers, and land protection professionals to identify, develop, fund, and implement coastal wetland restoration and enhancement projects across New England (Maine, New Hampshire, Massachusetts) to support DU’s waterfowl and wetlands conservation mission.

This position is predominantly office-based but requires periods of frequent travel, including overnight and out-of-state trips. It is remote work eligible with a preferred location within the region of responsibility (New England). As a remote employee, you may be required to report to a DU office or other designated location for meetings and other business needs with reasonable notice. Preferred start date is early September 2026.

Responsibilities

• Develop, coordinate, and implement coastal wetland projects on both public and private lands.
• Lead all aspects of marsh restoration planning, project development, and implementation, including:
  • Identification and coordination with partners and landowners
  • Identifying and applying for funding
  • Mapping and site assessment
  • Assisting engineering team with restoration design
  • Permitting, implementation oversight, contract management, project accounting, partner coordination, and reporting
• Collaborate with agency partners, DU biological and engineering staff, consultants, and regulatory agencies to ensure timely and on-budget delivery of projects.
• Develop and maintain relationships with conservation partners including municipalities, state and federal agencies, NGOs, and private landowners.
• Lead development and submission of competitive, multi-partner grant proposals, with an expectation of securing project funding within the first 1–2 years of employment.
• Identify and cultivate new funding opportunities, including federal programs (e.g., NAWCA, NOAA, NRCS, EPA), foundations, and state sources.
• Collaborate with DU’s science and development teams on coastal habitat conservation programs, including strategic conservation plans, landowner outreach, conservation easements, and land acquisitions.
• Work with the New England Coastal Manager and other staff to build and implement an effective, sustainable conservation program.
• Represent DU on state and regional working groups, technical committees, and partnerships to shape conservation priorities and funding strategies.
• Support public policy objectives in coordination with DU staff and volunteers.
• Coordinate with DU Communications, Administrative, and Development staff regarding outreach, budget management, and fundraising.
• Provide mentorship and technical guidance to DU staff, including early-career biologists.
• Serve as a resource on federal and regional funding programs, offering strategic guidance on program eligibility and partnership development.
• Perform other duties as assigned to advance DU’s mission and regional program.

Requirements

• Bachelor of Science degree (M.S. preferred) in Wildlife Biology, Ecology, Environmental Sciences, or a related natural resources field.
• 5-8+ years of directly related experience developing and managing wetlands restoration and enhancement projects, with a preference for coastal marsh restoration experience.
• Strong background in coastal wetland ecology and management, with emphasis on restoration, waterfowl, and wetland-dependent birds.
• Knowledge of coastal restoration techniques, modeling, hydrology, and restoration monitoring.
• Detail-oriented and well-organized, with the ability to manage multiple projects and budgets.
• Experience mentoring staff or leading small teams, including technicians or junior biologists.
• Excellent management, leadership, and collaboration skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills for working with a wide range of stakeholders.
• Proficiency in GIS (ArcGIS Online, ArcPro, and Field Maps) preferred.
• Familiarity with state and wetland conservation programs, policies, and laws is preferred.

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

Salary range: $75,000 - $85,000 annually, based on experience and education.