Wildlife Biologist IV

Advertisement closes 8/30/2026. Full-time, executive branch position (37.5 hours/week, ineligible for overtime pay). Hiring agency: Tourism, Arts, & Heritage Cabinet | Kentucky Fish and Wildlife Resources. Location: 1584 Overlook Drive, Taylorsville, KY 40071.

About the role

The Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources (KDFWR) seeks a Wildlife Biologist IV for the Bluegrass Region. This role manages wildlife development and restoration activities on public lands within assigned wildlife management areas (WMAs), including Taylorsville Lake WMA, John A. Kleber WMA, John C. Williams WMA, Kentucky River WMA, Rolling Fork WMA, Marion County WMA and State Forest, Knobs State Forest and WMA, Twin Eagle WMA, T.N. Sullivan WMA, and Dr. James Rich WMA. The position also serves as the department specialist for forest lands management within the assigned area.

Responsibilities

• Develops, implements, and manages habitat practices and population management on assigned WMAs, including supervising assigned staff.
• Maintains and expands relationships with agencies, organizations, sportsmen’s clubs, and groups.
• Conducts wildlife surveys, inventories, and data recording.
• Traps, bands, and identifies wildlife species; assists with prescribed burning.
• Prepares technical reports of findings.
• Manages public hunts and operates biological check stations to collect wildlife data.
• Interacts with the public and partners to share wildlife management information.
• Provides professional support to senior staff and serves as the regional specialist on forestry topics.
• Serves as a Fire-In-The-Field program trainer for regional staff.
• Assists in data entry, annual budget development, administrative records, and presentations.
• Attends meetings, delivers professional presentations, and participates in training courses.
• Carries out special assignments as directed.

Preferred Skills

• Knowledge of conservation provisions of the Federal Farm Bill.
• Practical experience with agricultural systems and farming.
• Ability to communicate clearly with landowners and partner agencies.
• Ability to work independently with diverse clientele.

Requirements

Education: Bachelor’s degree in biological science, wildlife biology, fish and wildlife management, conservation biology, natural resources, environmental sciences, or a related field.

Experience: Five years of professional experience in wildlife management, wildlife biology, or a related field.

• Substitute Education for Experience: A master’s degree in wildlife management, wildlife biology, or a related field substitutes for one year of experience. A PhD substitutes for two years of experience.

Special Requirements: Must possess a valid driver’s license. Must maintain required licensure, certification, or credentials for the duration of employment.

Working Conditions: Majority of time spent outdoors. Must be able to traverse rough and mountainous terrain with equipment.

Benefits

• 37.5-hour work week (occasional overtime required).
• Paid time off (sick and vacation) plus paid holidays.
• Overtime and compensatory time.
• Affordable health insurance with optional Health Reimbursement Account.
• Life insurance.
• Retirement benefits.
• Wellness Incentives Program.
• Training and career development opportunities.
• Optional Deferred Compensation program (401K).
• Employee discounts on electronics, health and wellness, retail, travel, events, entertainment, services, and education.

Pay

Monthly salary range: $4,356.96 - $6,535.44.

Schedule

37.5 hours per week. Probationary period of 6 months.