NRCS Wildlife Biologist Job Description

The National Resources Conservation Service falls under the U.S. Department of Agriculture and has offices in each state as well as the Caribbean and Pacific islands. The NRCS is charged with helping "private land owners and managers conserve their soil, water and other natural resources." One of the positions available at the NRCS is wildlife biologist.

Levels

Different governmental levels employ wildlife biologists--national, state or local field level.

General Duties

Wildlife biologists are responsible for the data and research that is needed to apply conservation management guidelines to private land. They work directly with land owners on how to best use and manage their land.

Higher Level Wildlife Biologists

There are several levels of employment as a wildlife biologist for the NRCS. Those at higher levels may have job duties that include supervising lower level employees and volunteers.

General Education and Experience Required

Typically a four-year degree in biology, conservation, or environmental sciences in addition to relevant work, volunteer or academic experience is required. Depending on the office location, a combination of experience and education is sometimes acceptable.

Specific Knowledge Needed

Knowledge of the ecological and environmental issues and land management techniques in the job area are often needed. This can include the federal and state permitting processes, weed control, fire prevention, local endangered species and local native plants and wildlife.

References

• USDA: NRCS