Location: Onsite in Waterville, WA.

Application Deadline: Open until filled (first review March 27, 2026)

Anticipated Start Date: April 2026 

Overview:

Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever are seeking a Private Lands Conservationist II in Waterville, Washington, to support the organization's mission of enhancing wildlife habitat through conservation. This position will work in joint capacity with the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) and other partners to to develop and implement habitat projects on private land.

Responsibilities:

• Provide technical assistance (wildlife habitat focus) and guidance to landowners, government agencies, non-government organizations, and others (training will be provided by the NRCS, PF/QF, and other organizations).
• Coordinate the implementation and application of wildlife habitat within conservation programs in cooperation with NRCS District Conservationist, and other programs.
• Develop conservation plans, complete job sheets, wildlife habitat evaluation guides, environmental evaluations, complete contracts, applications and other required documentation for conservation programs offered through the NRCS Conservation Programs, and other programs.
• Communicate program requirements, complete site visits to determine eligibility, and develop plans and contracts for applicants enrolling in NRCS Conservation Programs or other state and local conservation programs.
• Seek funding opportunities from other partners to leverage NRCS financial assistance programs.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor of Science Degree in Wildlife Management or closely related natural resources field and/or related field experience.
• Valid driver’s license required; work vehicle provided; some use of personal vehicle required (mileage reimbursement provided).
• Able to obtain USDA Federal Security Clearance.
• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively with landowners and partner agencies.
• Ability to work independently with little supervision and with diverse clientele.
• Knowledge of wildlife ecology, wetland and grassland management including the ability to utilize various habitat management tools and techniques in the development of management plans.
• Knowledge of conservation and wildlife programs provided by Federal (i.e. Farm Bill, US Fish and Wildlife Service), USDA Conservation programs state agencies, and Pheasants Forever. Knowledge of how these programs are implemented in an agricultural landscape is desired.
• Ability to apply and use GIS tools and other technologies.
• Strong organizational skills.

Salary Range: $50,000 with annual performance-based raises and the following benefits:

• Health, vision, dental and more insurance coverage plans are 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.
• Paid Time Off accrued at 15 days (120 hours) per year for new employees.
• Bereavement/Family/Sick Leave of 6 days (48 hours) per year.
• 13 paid holidays.

Contact: If you have further questions about Pheasants Forever, the application process, or this position, please contact Erik Lewis, WA State Wildlife Operations Manager, via email at elewis@pheasantsforever.org.

About Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever:

Pheasants Forever, Inc is a non-profit organization dedicated to wildlife habitat conservation. We are a team, working to ensure that we build an environment that has a long-lasting positive impact on pheasants, quails, and other wildlife.

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.