Wildlife Biologist II Landbird Biologist

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

This is an exciting opportunity to make a contribution to the conservation of landbirds in South Carolina as part of the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR). SCDNR’s mission is to serve as the principal advocate for and steward of South Carolina’s natural resources. And SCDNR’s vision is to be a trusted and respected leader in natural resources protection and management, by consistently making wise and balanced decisions for the benefit for the state’s natural resources and its people. This position is responsible for the implementation of research and survey projects to determine landbird species distributions, population statuses, threats, and conservation needs. Another major responsibility of the position will be to manage the Bald eagle project which includes conducting annual breeding season aerial surveys. This position will also be responsible for providing technical assistance to the public about landbird and Bald eagle protections, nuisance, and other issues. The position is part of the Bird Conservation statewide program and will work with resource managers on public lands and private landowners under the direction of the Bird Conservation Coordinator. This position is best suited to a highly organized, independent worker, with good communication skills that has landbird and eagle monitoring experience and the ability to conduct aerial surveys in a small airplane.

This is a full time exempt position which includes a retirement plan, paid vacation days, paid sick leave, state employee holidays, and health insurance. A state vehicle is available for work duties.

PRIMARY DUTIES INCLUDE:

·         Implement projects for landbirds including point count surveys, trapping and banding projects, nest searching projects and associated vegetation measurements across South Carolina.

·         Conduct Bald eagle aerial breeding season surveys in a small airplane.

·         Provide public with technical assistance on landbird and Bald eagle protections, nuisance, and other issues.

·         Represent the SCDNR on enforcement and permitting issues and other situations as required.

·         Develop and maintain large multi-year databases using Excel, Access, Survey123, Bird banding lab data portal and ArcGIS, and conduct data analysis using Program R.

·         Assist in the development and management of grants, budgets, and monthly and annual reports.

·         Develop and disseminate information for public outreach and present educational programs to the public.

·         Coordinate, train and supervise temporary personnel to collect data as needed.

·         Perform other related duties as assigned by the Bird Conservation Coordinator.

MINIMUM AND ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

A master's degree in biology, chemistry, or related technical area field; or a bachelor's degree in

biology, chemistry, wildlife management or related technical area and two (2) years of experience relevant to the job.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

·         Knowledge of landbird and Bald eagle biology and southeastern habitat management practices.

·         Knowledge of federal and state laws and regulatory procedures pertaining to native migratory birds and Bald eagles.

·         Ability to implement survey and monitoring projects for landbirds including the ability to identify landbirds by sight and sound, to trap and band, to locate nests, and to use vegetation surveying tools.

·         Experience in following field protocols, data collection, and data entry. Experience developing and maintaining large multi-year databases and analyzing data. Familiarity with ArcGIS, Program R, and Microsoft Office including Access.

·         Ability to efficiently organize information and details and manage multiple projects.

·         Ability to prepare monthly and annual reports and manage budgets.

·         Ability to communicate effectively in writing and verbally with peers and public on technical and non-technical subjects. Demonstrated ability to work with multiple stakeholder groups.

·         Demonstrated ability to work independently, with minimal supervision. Commitment to work collaboratively with co-workers, colleagues, and partners.

·         Ability to supervise staff effectively.

·         Must be able to endure long hours in adverse environmental conditions including heat and exposure to insects, lift and carry equipment (30 pounds), walk up to 4 miles carrying a day pack, and conduct annual aerial surveys in a small airplane.

·         Must be able and willing to work long, non-standard hours with frequent, sometimes overnight, travel.

·         Valid driver’s license required; expertise in using off-road vehicles. Adheres to safety protocols and maintains safe operating record while operating all equipment.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS:

·         Compensation is $50,190.00/year.

·         This position is full time exempt which includes a retirement plan, paid vacation days, paid sick leave, state employee holidays, and health insurance.

APPLICATION DEADLINE: 5 pm eastern time April 29, 2024

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:

Applicants MUST apply for this position online at www.careers.sc.gov. The direct link to the position: https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/sc/jobs/4007795/wildlife-biologist-ii?department[0]=Department of Natural Resources&sort=PositionTitle|Ascending&pagetype=jobOpportunitiesJobs . A cover letter and current CV are requested to supplement the required state application. 

Contact Amy Tegeler at tegelera@dnr.sc.gov with questions about the position.