District Natural Heritage Biologist

Job Requisition : 58643 Opening Date: 09/28/2026 Closing Date: 10/13/2026 Agency: Department of Natural Resources Class

Title:

NATURAL RESOURCES SPECIALIST - 28832 Skill Option: Natural Heritage Bilingual Option: None Salary: Anticipated Starting Salary: $6,135 monthly;
Full Range: $6,135 - $8,790 monthly Job Type: Salaried Category: Full Time Number of Vacancies: 1 Bargaining Unit Code: RC062 Technical Employees, AFSCME Merit Comp Code: N/A

Work Hours: Monday - Friday 8:00am - 4:00pm

Anticipated Hybrid Work Schedule Availability: 1 to 5 Days per week in office, depending on operational needs

Headquarter

Location:

700 S 10th St, Havana, Illinois, 62644

Work County: Mason

Agency Contact: Vicky Fowler, 217/785-5387 , Vicky.

Fowler

This position is a union position; therefore, provisions of the relevant collective bargaining agreement/labor contract apply to the filling of this position.

Working with the State of Illinois is a testament to the values of compassion, equity, and dedication that define our state. Whether you're helping to improve schools, protect our natural resources, or support families in need, you're part of something bigger-something that touches the lives of every person who calls Illinois home.

No matter what state career you're looking for, we offer jobs that fit your life and your schedule-flexible jobs that provide the gold standard of benefits. Our employees can take advantage of various avenues to advance their careers and realize their dreams. Our top-tier benefits and great retirement packages can help you build a rewarding career and lasting future with the State of Illinois.

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources is seeking to hire a Natural Resources Specialist for The Division of Natural Heritage. This position will serve as District Natural Heritage Biologist identifing and evaluating high quality natural sites and endangered species habitats for inclusion in the Illinois Natural Areas Inventory, provide insight on Department policies, permits, acquistions and administrative rules, apply herbicides and pesticides to control invasive species and exotic plants, prepare and implement prescribed burn fire plans, assist in preparing the regional budget and the annual district plan of work, and prepare presentations and act as a liaison supporting natural heritage resources with other agencies and constituents.

We welcome all qualified candidates to apply.

• Under general supervision of the Regional Manager, serves as District Natural Heritage Biologist, and administers, manages, and implements the Division's natural heritage programs in central Illinois.
• Conducts stewardship of natural communities and species habitats.
• Facilitates program-orientated research, surveys, and investigations.
• Prepares and reviews resource management plans and protection documents.
• Participates in establishing district and regional goals and objectives.
• Advocates for natural heritage resources.
• Performs other duties required or assigned which are reasonably within the scope of the duties enumerated herein.

• Requires knowledge, skill and mental development equivalent to completion of a master's degree in natural heritage resource management, or a directly related biological science; or a bachelor's degree in natural heritage resource management, or a directly related biological science, supplemented by two years of directly related professional experience.

• Prefers a master's degree in a wildlife, botany, ecology, or zoology focused major.
• Extensive knowledge on managing flora and fauna and threatened and endangered species management.
• Two (2) years of professional experience involving…