Biologist I

Preferred candidates will have at a minimum, a Bachelor of Science degree in the applicable field, wildlife management, grazing/range and/or livestock management, etc. and a minimum of 3 years of professional experience related to conservation planning, natural resource conservation and/or livestock or grazing management. Experience and education with agriculture programs and practices are also preferred. Working knowledge of state habitat grant programs and Farm Bill programs such as the Environment Quality Incentives Program (EQIP), Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) and Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) also preferred. 

• →Provide technical assistance and conservation planning support (wildlife biology and grassland/grazing land conservation focus) and guidance to landowners, government agencies, non-government organizations (NGO’s) and others. 
• →In collaboration with state partners, coordinator and conduct grazing educational opportunities/workshops.
• →Participate in inter-disciplinary conservation teams to enhance grassland system function.
• →Provide trainings for NRCS and other partners focused on grazing strategies.
• →Coordinate integration and application of biological sciences within the conservation programs in cooperation with the local NRCS District Conservationists.
• →Complete conservation plans and maps, contracts, applications, and other required documentation for Farm Bill conservation programs (i.e., EQIP, ACEP-ALE, CRP) requiring biological and grazing science expertise in cooperation with the partners and in cooperation with the local NRCS District Conservationist.
• →Communicate program requirements, complete site visits to determine eligibility and develop contracts/plans for applicants enrolling in USDA conservation programs or other state and local conservation programs for the protection, restoration and enhancement of native grasslands and grazing lands.
• →Coordinate, participate and promote grassland and grazing workshops in Central MN with a primary focus in landscapes of mutual priority.
• →Perform other related duties as assigned. 

• Excellent verbal/written communication and organizational skills.
• Proven ability to communicate clearly and effectively with landowners and partners.
• Ability to work independently with little supervision.
• Knowledge of grazing science and wildlife ecology including the ability to develop prescribed grazing plans that include wildlife habitat management objectives.
• Able to obtain USDA Security Clearance and NRCS Conservation Planning certification. 
• Knowledge of computer skills is required, and applicant should be familiar with ArcGIS, Word, and Excel.
• Experience utilizing conservation planning programs such as Conservation Desktop (CD) or similar systems. 
• Valid driver’s license.

This position will be a grant funded position and be part of the Grazing Team within the Great Lakes/Atlantic Region. Multiple grants currently fund this position for the next 3-5 years, with additional funding being sought yearly.

Salary: $55,000 - $70,000 depending upon experience and qualifications.

Application: Please attach a resume, cover letter and references. The position will be open until filled.