SD Farm Bill Wildlife Biologist I, II, or III

Farm Bill Wildlife Biologist I, II, or III Location: Watertown, South Dakota Application Deadline: Open until filled Anticipated Start Date: January 2026

Overview: In partnership with the South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (SD GFP), the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), and local Pheasants Forever chapters; this position will coordinate and implement wildlife-related conservation programs and provide technical assistance. Work in joint capacity with PF, NRCS, and SD GFP to promote, coordinate and implement conservation provisions of the Federal Farm Bill and other related wildlife conservation programs. Duties will include wildlife habitat planning, contract coordination, writing plans, site assessment and reporting. Provide technical assistance for wildlife habitat and grazing enhancement techniques to private landowners and public organizations. Meet with local chapters of Pheasants Forever to help coordinate and influence habitat management efforts and participate in county and statewide habitat meetings. Implement specific conservation programs to improve wildlife habitat.

Job Duties:

• Provide technical assistance (wildlife habitat focus) and guidance to private landowners, government agencies, non-government organizations and other groups primarily through federal Farm Bill programs and other available wildlife habitat programs. Training provided jointly by NRCS, SD GFP, and PF & QF.
• Prepare conservation plans, conservation plan modifications, job sheets/implementation requirements, prescribed burn plans, status reviews, wildlife habitat evaluation guides (WHEG), activity reports, contract documents, and other relevant work products and documents requiring biological expertise.
• Communicate technical and program requirements and conduct contract coordination, site assessments, eligibility determinations, and training sessions for landowners and resource professionals.

Accelerate conservation program enrollment and public awareness by conducting outreach such as workshops, field days, demonstration events, and habitat tours. Meet with local PF & QF chapters and other local partners to coordinate and support habitat management efforts and participate in local and statewide habitat meetings and trainings.

Meet regularly with PF & QF, NRCS and SD GFP staff to coordinate technical assistance efforts and for resource training. Promote and implement specific conservation programs to improve wildlife habitat and public access.

• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Required Knowledge Skills and Abilities:

Ability to communicate clearly and effectively with landowners and partner agency staff. Ability to work independently with little supervision and with diverse clientele. Knowledge of wildlife ecology, grassland, wetland and early succession habitat establishment and management, including the ability to utilize various habitat management tools in the development of management plans.

Specific knowledge of grassland/farmland associated wildlife species’ habitat requirements is desirable along with plant identification of native, non-native, and invasive grasses, forbs, trees, and shrubs. Knowledge of conservation and wildlife programs provided through the Farm Bill, as well as other federal, state, & local entities. In addition, knowledge of how these programs are implemented in an agricultural landscape is desired.

Knowledge of agricultural landscapes, common farming and land use practices, and basic agricultural economics is desirable. Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Strong organizational skills, time management, and attention to detail. Valid driver’s license required; use of personal vehicle required with a mileage reimbursement and vehicle stipend provided. Current rate is $.67 per mile with periodic adjustments relative to the IRS rate. Expect to drive 6,000 to 10,000 miles annually.

Must be able to obtain USDA Federal Security Clearance. Location Description: Watertown is a thriving community located in eastern South Dakota along I-29. Codington County and the surrounding area provide excellent hunting opportunities for a variety of upland species including ring-necked pheasant and sharp-tailed grouse, as well as waterfowl and big game hunting for white-tailed deer. Fishing and recreational opportunities await among the areas many glacial lakes. Amenities available in Watertown include multiple grocery stores, large retail and department stores, many small local businesses, fast food and other dining, hotels, K-12 public and private education, and Lake Area Technical College. Larger population centers of Sioux Falls, SD and Fargo, ND are easy drives along I-29, being 90 minutes and 2 hours away respectively.

Education and Experience Preferred: Any combination of training and/or experience that will enable the applicant to possess the required knowledge, skills and abilities. A Bachelor of Science Degree in Wildlife Management or closely related natural resources field is required. At least 2 years of relevant professional experience are required to qualify for a Farm Bill Biologist II or III. Proven experience working with USDA Farm Bill programs is preferred. The ideal candidate will exhibit a balance of technical knowledge and interpersonal skills required to implement voluntary conservation programs on private lands.:

Salary Range: $40,000 to $49,000 (commensurate with experience) with annual performance-based raises, plus benefits include:

Health, vision, dental and more insurance coverage plans available. 401(k) Retirement plan with an employer match of up to 5%. Student Loan Assistance program of up to $200/month for eligible employees. Vehicle Stipend of up to $300/month for eligible employees. Paid Time Off accrued at 15 days (120 hours) per year for new employees (increasing after 3 years).

Bereavement/Family/Sick Leave of 6 days (48 hours) per year. 13 Paid holidays. To Apply: Please combine your cover letter, resume, and three references into one Word document or PDF file as part of your application on our recruitment website at www.pheasantsforever.org/jobs. *Only online applications will be accepted.

Contact: Tom Zinter, PF/QF South Dakota Farm Bill Program Manager, tzinter@pheasantsforever.org or (605) 216-0104; or Matt Gottlob, PF/QF South Dakota State Coordinator, mgottlob@pheasantsforever.org or (605) 421-8821. Pheasants Forever, Inc and Quail Forever is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, status as a protected veteran, status as a qualified individual with disability, or any other category that may be protected by law.