District Wildlife Habitat Biologist

Job Summary We are seeking a Natural Resources Specialist for the Wildlife District 23 office in the Office of Resource Conservation. The position provides professional land, water, and wildlife resource management, conducts high‑priority wildlife investigations, offers technical assistance on private and public lands, develops regional goals and work plans, and serves as a liaison with State and Federal agencies to manage wildlife resource planning. Essential Functions Provides comprehensive land, water, and wildlife resource management and planning services on all public lands within the district under general supervision of the Regional Wildlife Resources Administrator. Conducts wildlife disease management and monitoring for diseases such as chronic wasting disease, epizootic hemorrhagic disease, avian influenza and others. Provides planning services on private lands within the district. Prepares and disseminates information regarding wildlife, habitat and related subjects to the general public and organizations. Conducts wildlife capture and marking activities using specialized conservation techniques and equipment such as boats, outboard motors, wood duck traps, rocket net launchers and surveys wildlife population trends. Acts as liaison or representative of the Regional Wildlife Administrator with State and Federal agencies and other organizations to coordinate wildlife resource planning and management efforts. Prepares and maintains technical records and reports such as accomplishment reports, activity reports, programmatic cost reports and expenditure accounts. Performs other duties as required or assigned within scope of responsibilities. Minimum Qualifications Requires a master’s degree in wildlife resource management or a directly related biological science, or a bachelor’s degree in the same field supplemented by two years of directly related professional experience. Preferred Qualifications Extensive knowledge of flora, fauna, and modern wildlife management techniques. At least one year of experience as a professional wildlife biologist or natural resource manager with responsibility for planning and implementing natural resource management practices on public and/or private land. Extensive knowledge of state/federal laws and regulations pertaining to wildlife management and conservation. One year of experience collecting and analyzing technical data and reports. Working knowledge of public relations principles, techniques, theories, and practices, including the ability to deliver informational presentations. Conditions of Employment Completion of a background check and self‑disclosure of criminal history. Valid driver’s license. Ability to work under adverse environmental conditions. Ability to lift loads exceeding 60 lbs, traverse rough and broken terrain on foot without mechanical assistance, and transport equipment. Ability to travel in the performance of duties. Work Hours Monday - Friday 8:00 am – 4:00 pm with a ½‑hour lunch. Location Coffeen Lake State Fish & Wildlife Area, 15084 N 4th Ave, Coffeen, IL 62017. Salary and Benefits Anticipated starting salary: $6,135 per month effective July 1, 2026; full range $6,135 – $8,790 per month. Position is salaried full‑time, unionized under RC062 Technical Employees, AFSCME. Additional Information Reasonable accommodations are available for qualified individuals with disabilities. Applicants may provide documentation under the My Documents → Additional Documents section. The State does not provide visa sponsorship. Salary history is not required. Contact Agency Contact: Vicky Fowler Email: View email address on click.appcast.io Phone: View phone number on click.appcast.io Application Period Job ID: 56304 | Opening Date: 06/04/2026 | Closing Date: 06/18/2026 #J-18808-Ljbffr Illinois Department of Natural Resources