Upland Game Research Scientist - Research Scientist

Job : 92146 •
Location: Madelia, MN •
Agency: Minnesota Department of Natural Resources •
Division: Fish and Wildlife •
Telework Eligible: Yes •
Salary: $32.40–$47.76 per hour ($67,651–$99,722 per year) •
FLSA Status: Exempt – Professional

The Farmland Wildlife Populations and Research Group (FaWPRG) seeks an Upland Game Research Scientist to serve as the DNR’s expert on upland game birds and farmland habitat. The role involves designing, executing, and reporting independent research on wild turkeys, ring‑necked pheasants, gray partridges, northern bobwhite quail, and other upland species, as well as developing new management methods.

• Plan and design independent research projects and population surveys concerning avian habitats in farmland landscapes.
• Organize, direct, and execute research and survey projects, including data collection, storage, analysis, and interpretation, applying valid statistical procedures.
• Perform administrative duties for DNR research projects, such as budget management and contract administration.
• Prepare technical and popular research reports and oral presentations for technical, public, and media audiences.
• Present data and expert opinion to committees and other stakeholders, translating scientific findings into management recommendations.
• Maintain current knowledge of wildlife science, ecology, and statistical methods, and advance technology in Minnesota wildlife research.

• Master’s degree in Wildlife Biology, Ecology, Natural Resources, or a closely related field AND at least two years of post‑graduation experience in scientific research or survey techniques relating to wild birds.
• OR PhD in a related field with independent research project design, implementation, and analysis experience.

• Working knowledge of wild‐bird ecology and management.
• Experience with experimental design, statistics, and field sampling techniques.
• Proficiency in Program R or other statistical software.
• Exceptional communication skills for diverse audiences.
• Experience publishing in peer‑reviewed journals, including at least two senior‑authored wildlife research articles.
• Management skills for planning, budgeting, and coordinating research resources.
• Ability to collaborate on large‑scale, multidisciplinary projects.
• Computer proficiency (statistical software, databases, spreadsheets, word processing).

• PhD with a focus on avian ecology.
• Completion of at least one post‑doctoral research project related to wildlife.
• Extensive R programming experience.
• Proficiency in ArcGIS or Arc Pro and other GIS data.
• Proficiency with Access databases.
• Experience leading and planning the work of others.
• Applied wildlife research experience that reduces uncertainties for decision making.
• Experience with live‑trapping and marking of gallinaceous birds.
• Experience modeling game‐bird populations and making harvest recommendations.
• Knowledge of Midwestern wildlife research, grassland birds, and farm‑bill habitat programs.

Unrestricted Class D driver’s license with a clean driving record. Ability to meet physical requirements and work in environmental conditions. All applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship.

• Conflict of Interest Review
• Criminal History Check
• Education Verification
• Employment Reference / Records Check
• License / Certification Verification

Click “Apply for Job” at the top of this page. For questions, contact the Careers Help Desk at 651‑259‑3637 or email careers.us. Additional application instructions are available .gov/careers.

Nicole Davros, Nicole.

Davros.us – 507‑578‑8916

Minnesota state agencies are equal‑opportunity, affirmative action, and veteran‑friendly employers. We encourage applicants of all backgrounds, including persons of color, Indigenous communities, LGBTQIA2S+ individuals, people with disabilities, women, and veterans, to apply. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any protected characteristic.

State agencies provide reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. If you need assistance with job search or application, contact the Careers Help Desk at 651‑259‑3637 or email careers.us.