Job Type: Forest Wildlife Specialist – Michigan 

Location: West-Central Lower, Michigan

Preferred Location: Within 50 miles of Baldwin, Michigan

Region: Eastern Great Lakes Region

Posting Open Date: April 21, 2025

Posting Close Date: May 23, 2025

Term of Position: June, 2025 – June, 2026. Likely to be extended with additional funding. 

Background:

Established in 1961, the Ruffed Grouse Society (RGS) is North America’s foremost conservation organization dedicated to creating healthy forests, abundant wildlife, and promoting a conservation ethic. Together with the American Woodcock Society (AWS), established in 2014, RGS & AWS works with private landowners and government agencies to develop critical wildlife habitat utilizing scientific management practices.

RGS & AWS has entered into several collaborative agreements with the U.S. Forest Services (USFS). Together, RGS & AWS and USFS are looking for a motivated individual to work effectively with a diversity of public and private lands stakeholders in and around the Pere-Marquette Watershed (West-Central Lower, Michigan). The forest wildlife specialist will function as a wildlife forester, leading several projects and providing assistance to the RGS & AWS Eastern Great Lakes forest conservation director.

Qualifications:

• A degree in forestry and/or closely related field, with 3+ years of experience and/or a graduate degree in natural resource management.
• In-depth understanding of forest management including: forest operations, silviculture, forest product markets and environmental Ability to assess wildlife habitat and make connections between forest management and wildlife habitat needs.
• Knowledge of USDA Forest Service processes, regulations, policies and directives (e.g., NFMA and NEPA). Previous experience working with the Forest Service or another federal agency is beneficial.
• Excellent spoken and written communication skills, networking skills, organization and ability to engage with diverse collaborators. Must be comfortable speaking in public and leading virtual and in-person meetings. Applicant will be expected to coordinate and facilitate meetings between diverse stakeholders.
• Ability to use Microsoft Office suite of programs
• Ability to use ArcGIS, Google Maps and other computer mapping systems is required.
• Willingness and ability to frequently travel throughout Michigan and perform arduous fieldwork on variable terrain and under various weather conditions.
• Applicant must be self-motivated and responsible. Required ability to work independently and manage multiple projects under deadlines. Ability to produce effective results and problem-solve.
• The position must participate in specific training programs to use partner facilities and equipment. Applicant must have a valid driver’s license.

Position Summary:

Work jointly with RGS & AWS and the USFS to increase forest diversity and enhance habitat for forest wildlife in Michigan. With input from a wide range of partners representing a diversity of forest owners, managers and stakeholders, develop Dynamic Forest Restoration Block (DFRB) planning criteria and draft DFRB management plans within priority landscapes (Pere-Marquette Watershed). Lead Pere-Marquette Forest Habitat Collaborative meetings and engage stakeholders and collaborative partners in planning efforts. Identify forest management, forest restoration and habitat projects that align with DFRB plans and apply for grant funding to execute discrete forest/wildlife restoration projects.

Duties will also include assisting the RGS & AWS Eastern Great Lakes forest conservation director with implementing other collaboratives, grants and agreements. This includes Forest Service Stewardship Agreements, Challenge Cost Share Agreements and Wildlife Habitat grants. This will include conducting field forestry work, contracting and administering forest habitat projects including timber sale administration, develop and conduct forest inventory/monitoring, complete accomplishment reports and assist grant management staff with payment and reimbursement requests. Coordinate outreach and wildlife habitat management efforts with RGS & AWS, USFS, NRCS, MI DNR, Counties and other partner staff, especially related to the restoration and enhancement of young forest habitats.

Attendance at relevant RGS & AWS, USFS, MI DNR meetings and professional conferences will also be required. Assisting with regional forest conservation projects on public and private lands and attending RGS & AWS member/fundraising events may be required.

Compensation: Competitive compensation; health insurance including medical, dental and vision; retirement options including employer contribution; a government vehicle or vehicle stipend for business travel; a purchasing card for business and travel expenses; computer and printer; cell phone; office supplies.

Salary commensurate with experience, minimum starting $50,000–$62,000.