Wetland Biologist

Wetland BiologistMadisonville, KentuckyDucks Unlimited, Inc. (DU), in partnership with the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), is seeking a Wetland Biologist to deliver wetland conservation easements and practices on private lands in Kentucky. The selected candidate will be based out of the USDA Service Center in Madisonville, Kentucky, and will work as part of a partnership team delivering Wetland Reserve Easements (WRE) and wetland restoration projects. The position's work area is a priority landscape for migratory birds dependent on wetland habitats for all or part of their life cycle, including waterfowl, large wading birds, secretive marsh birds, shorebirds, and migratory songbirds, particularly along the Mississippi Flyway. NRCS and DU recognize the need for additional technical capacity to develop landowner relationships, provide wetland technical assistance, and collaborate with partners to create, restore, and protect critical wetland habitats. The Wetland Biologist will work closely with NRCS field offices to provide technical and biological expertise in the delivery of the NRCS Wetland Reserve Easement Program, DU's conservation delivery programs, and other Farm Bill and private land conservation programs. The position offers access to high-quality training and mentorship while providing both programmatic and technical assistance to private landowners. The position is co-funded by NRCS and DU with excellent advancement opportunities. The successful applicant will be a full-time employee of DU's Great Lakes Atlantic Regional Office (Dexter, MI) and will work collaboratively with DU and Kentucky NRCS staff while adhering to all applicable conservation program policies and directives.Specific Duties and Responsibilities:(Approximate percent time spent annually accomplishing each)60% - Technical Assistance & Conservation DeliveryProvide in-the-field, programmatic, and technical assistance for state and federal wetland conservation programs on private landsConduct site visits to develop wetland habitat management plans and determine eligibility for USDA Farm Bill, DU land protection, and other conservation programsWork directly with landowners to promote and enhance wetland conservation practices that improve water quality and wildlife habitatAssist with required monitoring of WRE and other conservation program lands to ensure program intent is met and identify enhancement opportunitiesDevelop Compatible Use Authorizations (CUAs) for approval under the NRCS WRE ProgramUse knowledge of terrestrial and aquatic species life history to develop tree planting plans, grass planting plans, water-level management plans, and moist-soil/emergent marsh management plansPromote landowner participation in USDA Farm Bill programs and other wetland-focused conservation opportunitiesCoordinate closely with NRCS and partner staff to maximize soil, water, and wildlife benefits of conservation programsAssist with wetland management workshops, outreach, and training activities30% - Program Support & ReportingAssist with applications, contracts, and documentation for wetland conservation programsProvide technical support to partners on wetland creation and restoration projectsServe on interdisciplinary teams to enhance and improve wetland conservation program deliverySubmit monthly progress reports documenting landowner assistance, acres impacted, and time allocationPrepare quarterly activity summary reportsAssist with other wetland enhancement and private lands conservation duties as needed10% - Professional DevelopmentExpand technical expertise in wetland and riverine systems through training and educational opportunitiesMinimum Education and Experience Requirements:Bachelor of Science degree in natural resource conservation, agriculture, wildlife management, or a closely related fieldAt least 2 years of experience managing wetland systems is highly preferredCombination of office and extensive field work requiredInfrequent overnight travel may be required, both in-state and out-of-stateField duties may require working in extreme or inclement weather conditionsKnowledge, Skills, and Abilities:Working knowledge of wetland systems, including identification of wetland-associated flora and faunaKnowledge of migratory waterfowl ecology and habitat management principlesExperience developing and implementing wetland management and conservation plansProficiency with Microsoft Office; working knowledge of ArcGIS preferredFamiliarity with the USDA Wetland Reserve Easement Program, Farm Bill programs, and private lands conservation programs in KentuckyAbility to work independently and collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary teamAbility to work outdoors in inclement weather and remote field conditionsAbility to safely operate and maintain 4x4 vehicles, trucks, trailers, UTVs/ATVs, and other field equipmentDemonstrate the ability to pull and back trailers, navigate dirt roads and uneven terrainStrong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlinesStrong written and verbal communication skills for interacting with landowners, agency staff, and partnersValid driver's license required; willingness to use a personal vehicle for mileage reimbursement when a fleet vehicle is unavailableBenefits/Compensation:Ducks Unlimited offers a competitive benefits package including health insurance, retirement benefits, paid vacation, holidays, and sick leave. Compensation is commensurate with education and experience. Typical starting salary ranges from $56,000-$58,000 per year, plus a variable compensation incentive program.To Apply: Please complete all application materials and attach a resume, cover letter, and three references. Applications will be accepted through May 31, 2026 or until a qualified applicant is identified.DUCKS UNLIMITED, INC. IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER