Wetland Biologist

Wetland Biologist Great Lakes Atlantic Region: USDA Service Center – Southeast Indiana Full-Time, Term Ducks Unlimited Position September 2026 – 2030 (Position expected to be extended beyond 2030, funding dependent) Final date to receive applications:
September 30, 2026 (Open until filled)

Position Location:

North Vernon, IN - USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Service Center

Position Overview:

Ducks Unlimited, Inc. (DU), in partnership with the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), is seeking a Wetland Biologist to support wetland conservation and restoration activities throughout Indiana. The selected candidate will work as part of a collaborative partnership team delivering wetland conservation easements, restoration projects, and Farm Bill conservation programs on private lands.

The Wetland Biologist will provide biological and technical expertise to advance wetland conservation, wildlife habitat enhancement, and natural resource management objectives. The position will assist with the delivery of the Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP), specifically the Wetland Reserve Easement (WRE) component, while supporting conservation planning efforts that improve wetland function, water quality, and habitat for migratory birds, waterfowl, shorebirds, marsh birds, songbirds, and other wildlife species.

• Provide direct technical assistance for implementation of the Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP), Wetland Reserve Easement (WRE) component.
• Assist private landowners with wetland determination, restoration, enhancement, creation, and management activities associated with Farm Bill and other conservation programs.
• Conduct site visits and field assessments to determine project feasibility, eligibility, and conservation outcomes.
• Develop wetland habitat management plans and recommend practices that promote desired plant communities, wildlife populations, and ecosystem functions.
• Utilize knowledge of wetland ecology, hydrology, vegetation, and wildlife habitat requirements to develop restoration and management recommendations.
• Assist with tree planting plans, native grass establishment, moist-soil management plans, emergent marsh management, and water-level management strategies.
• Conduct monitoring and evaluation of wetland restoration projects and conservation easements to assess effectiveness and identify enhancement opportunities.
• Prepare Compatible Use Authorizations (CUAs) and other documentation required under the WRE Program.
• Coordinate with NRCS staff and conservation partners to maximize soil, water, and wildlife benefits of conservation projects.
• Promote participation in USDA Farm Bill programs and other private lands conservation initiatives.
• Assist with wetland management workshops, outreach, and training activities

• Provide leadership and coordination in planning and conducting wildlife, plant, and wetland studies, investigations, and data collection efforts.
• Assist with applications, contracts, reporting requirements, and program documentation.
• Serve on interdisciplinary teams supporting conservation planning and program delivery.
• Receive, disseminate, and assist with implementation of National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) guidance and requirements.
• Provide training, technical guidance, and support to NRCS field staff on environmental compliance and biological resource concerns.
• Prepare monthly, quarterly, and special progress reports documenting accomplishments, landowner assistance, acres impacted, and project status.
• Compile and analyze biological and conservation data using available technology and GIS tools where…