Overview: In partnership with the USDA-Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) and New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife (NJDFW); this Farm Bill Wildlife Biologist will coordinate and implement wildlife-related conservation programs and provide technical assistance within the Northern bobwhite quail (NBWQ) focal landscape of New Jersey. The position location will be based in a USDA Service Center and provide service to multiple counties and Service Centers in southern New Jersey. Staff will work in joint capacity with partner agencies to promote, coordinate and implement conservation provisions of the Federal Farm Bill, with primary focus on the Working Lands For Wildlife Northern Bobwhite Grasslands and Savannas Framework. Conservation delivery may involve other relevant Farm Bill programs such as the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP), Environmental Quality Incentive Program (EQIP), and the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP), as well as state level habitat programs and initiatives. General duties will include all aspects of wildlife habitat planning, contract coordination, conservation plan writing, site assessment/eligibility determination, program promotion/outreach, landowner technical assistance, monitoring, and reporting. 

Specific Duties:

• Provide technical assistance (wildlife habitat focus) and guidance to private landowners, government agencies, non-government organizations and other groups for USDA NRCS conservation programs. Training provided jointly by NRCS, NJDFW, and PF & QF.
• Coordinate the implementation and application of wildlife programs within the Working Lands For Wildlife Northern Bobwhite Grasslands and Savannas Framework landscape in cooperation with partner agencies.
• Complete conservation plans, job sheets, wildlife habitat evaluation guides (WHEG) and other required documentation for the conservation programs requiring biological expertise in cooperation with the listed partners.
• Communicate program requirements, complete site visits to determine eligibility, and develop contract documents for applicants and participants of USDA-NRCS conservation programs and other local and state programs.
• Review plans and specifications for feasibility for implementation under Farm Bill program contract rules, etc.
• Conduct conservation program outreach including workshops, field days, demonstration events, and landowner mentor events.
• Provide on-site landowner technical assistance for conservation practice implementation.
• Conduct grassland bird and vegetation monitoring as part of the Northern Bobwhite Grasslands and Savannas Framework outcomes research.
• Work with local QF chapters to assist with habitat program education and outreach and provide technical assistance for habitat projects.

Desired Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively with landowners and partner agency staff.
• Ability to work independently and with diverse clientele. Must be a motivated self-starter with strong interpersonal skills.
• Knowledge of, and/or practical experience with silviculture and prescribed fire as it relates to forest management and wildlife habitat. Prescribed fire training, certifications, and experience are preferred.
• Knowledge of wildlife ecology and forest and grassland management including the ability to utilize various habitat management tools in the development of management plans.
• Knowledge of conservation and wildlife programs provided by federal (i.e., Farm Bill, US Fish and Wildlife Service), state, & local entities.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong organizational skills with demonstrated ability to manage demanding workloads.
• Proficiency with ArcGIS, GPS, Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook, etc.) is required.
• Valid driver’s license required; some use of personal vehicle required (mileage reimbursement provided).
• Must be able to obtain USDA Federal Security Clearance.

Training and Experience Guideline: 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, Forestry, or closely related natural resources field is required. 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.

Starting Salary: $42,000-$48,000 (Commensurate with experience)