Private Lands Biologist

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Full-Time, Regular Richmond, TX, US

Private Lands Biologist

Richmond, Texas

Ducks Unlimited (DU) seeks a Private Lands Biologist (PLB) to support delivery of wetland and waterfowl habitat conservation projects on private lands on the Texas Coast. This position works directly with private landowners to plan and implement habitat restoration and enhancement projects and habitat management actions while working closely with DU biologists, DU engineering staff, and agency partners. The successful candidate will lead delivery of DU’s private land programs on the Texas Coast – Texas Prairie Wetlands Project and Texas Coastal Wetlands Program.

With guidance from senior DU team members, the PLB plays an essential role in ensuring projects are delivered timely, accurately, and in compliance with funding and partnership requirements. Other responsibilities include annual monitoring of a small portfolio of DU conservation easements.

The position will be based out of the DU Field Office in Richmond, Texas with approximately 50% time in the field and 50% time in the office. A work truck will be provided for position duties. Most travel will be day trips with some trips requiring overnight accommodation. Typical field activities consist of meeting with private landowners on-site to discuss potential or ongoing projects.

Typical office activities include developing project proposals and agreements, tracking project expense, and closing out completed projects.

• Lead delivery of the Texas Prairie Wetlands Project and Texas Coastal Wetlands Program for wetland enhancement and management on private lands along the Texas Coast.
• Work directly with private landowners to help guide project development and implementation consistent with landowner goals and DU priorities.
• Coordinate regularly with DU engineering staff to complete design development tasks and final construction inspections.
• Work with DU staff and key partners to maintain project schedules and documentation and track budgets.
• Coordinate with agency partners (e.g., USFWS, TPWD, NRCS) on the review of project proposals and summary of annual accomplishments.
• Assist with developing grant proposals and reports.
• Works with DU field biologists to complete annual monitoring of DU conservation easements in Texas and Oklahoma.
• Represent DU in a professional manner when interacting with landowners, partners, and the public.

• Required: Must hold a valid driver’s license.
• Knowledge of waterfowl and/or shorebird ecology (preferred).
• Working knowledge of wetland restoration, enhancement, and management for waterfowl and wetland birds (preferred).
• Knowledge of the Texas Coast and local agricultural practices (preferred).
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to coordinate planning for multiple projects simultaneously while meeting deadlines.
• Good written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.

• Bachelor’s degree in wildlife biology, natural resources, ecology, environmental science, or a related field.
• Two or more years of experience with planning and delivering wetland habitat projects.

• Master’s degree with an emphasis in waterfowl and wetlands.
• Experience working with private landowners to restore and manage habitat.

Benefits/Pay: Salary will be based on experience and education. DU offers an exceptional benefit package, including comprehensive group medical, prescription, dental and vision insurance, including spouse and…