Habitat Specialist II or III (Crew)

Four positionsApplication Deadline: Open until filledAnticipated Start Date: Summer 2026Starting Salary: $45,000-65,000 commensurate with experience + benefits (see our benefits summary on our recruitment website, www.pheasantsforever.org/jobs).Overview: Work in joint capacity with Pheasants Forever, Inc., and Quail Forever (PFQF) and the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) to enhance and increase wildlife and pollinator habitat within designated roadside prairie and landscape-level resource management areas across Central Illinois (IDOT Districts 5 and 6).These positions are full-time, permanent employees of Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever. This unique partnership will allow for varied field duties, including prescribed fire, natural community identification, invasive species control, and project coordination among multiple organizations.Duties: Led by a crew leader, a team of four (4) habitat specialists crew members will work with partners to conduct wildlife habitat management practices throughout Central Illinois (IDOT Districts 5 and 6). Major responsibilities include:Implement habitat management work on IDOT ROW that includes but is not limited to edge feathering, herbicide application, burn line construction and prescribed burning, invasive/exotic plant control, native shrub establishment and native grass/forb establishmentAssist crew lead in procuring supplies and equipment following IDOT/Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever best management practicesAssist with grant reporting duties in conjunction with collaborating organizationsServe as burn crew members on prescribe firesEnsure habitat management activities are accurately reported, mapped and entered on timePerform other related duties as assignedJob may require odd hours and travel/time away from homeRequired Knowledge Skills and Abilities:A solid understanding of environmental, ecological, and/or natural resource science. Education may be substituted for experience as determined relevant by the partners. Preference will be given to candidates with bachelor’s degrees with an emphasis in ecology, forestry, or wildlife managementDemonstrated experience conducting at least two of the following: upland habitat management, prescribed burning, operating tractors and agricultural implements (discing, mowing, fire line creation, etc.), identification and control of invasive species and other undesired vegetationAbility to communicate clearly and effectively with private landowners, colleagues, and partner agenciesAbility to work independently with little supervisionExperience in GIS systems and mappingKnowledge of wildlife ecology, and grassland management, including utilizing various habitat management equipment and tools in developing wildlife habitatAbility to successfully pass an arduous pack test annuallyAbility to lift and carry 50+ pounds safely and repeatedlyExcellent verbal/written communication and organizational skillsValid driver’s license requiredHave or be able to attain an Illinois Right-of-Way (ROW) pesticide applicator license within 6 months of start dateExperience with or strong interest in conducting prescribed firesPreferred Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:Desired Prescribed Fire course work: S130/S190, IS-100.C, IS700.b, L180Wildland fire experience, especially in prescribed fireJob-related experience using mechanical or chemical methods for controlling invasive speciesJob-related experience operating and maintaining tractors, discs, and planting equipmentTraining and Experience Guideline: Any combination of training and/or experience that will enable the applicant to possess the required knowledge, skills, and abilities. More than one year of work experience in a wildlife, forestry, or agricultural-related job. Applicants with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Wildlife Management or closely related natural resources and/or related field experience are preferred. Continued training and professional development opportunities will be provided.To Apply: Please combine your cover letter, resume, and 3 references into a single Word document or PDF file before uploading as part of your application on our recruitment website: www.pheasantsforever.org/jobsIf you have questions about the position, contact Katie Kauzlarich-Stockman, PF/QF Illinois State Coordinator, at kkauzlarich@pheasantsforever.org or (309) 264-1678.Pheasants Forever, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action, e-Verify 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 a disability, or any other category that may be protected by law.Powered by JazzHRZiaxuSRt9n