Wildlife Biologist

WDNR Job Code: 6861

Job Description:
Voluntary Public Access and Habitat Incentive Program (VPA-HIP) Coordinator position under the direction and supervision of a WDNR Bureau of Wildlife Management Supervisor (based in Madison). This position will have statewide responsibilities as the lead coordinator for the VPA-HIP where the objective is to provide wildlife-dependent public access to private lands, including hunting, fishing and trapping, by leasing private lands and to offer technical assistance to facilitate wildlife habitat management to landowners who enroll in the program. The program is intended to complement Wisconsin’s existing Public Hunting Ground (PHG) leasing program. This position will be housed in the WDNR’s Central Office in Madison, but will include travel for meetings and to visit with field staff and landowners involved with the program. This position will also be coordinating and collaborating with other federal and state agencies, constituent groups, conservation organizations, and the media on all aspects of the VPA-HIP. This position works independently or with general direction from a WDNR Wildlife Management Supervisor, as well as with WDNR Wildlife Biologists and partner groups while performing statewide wildlife management responsibilities that include a combination of the following duties: 50% – Use GIS to properly map all leased properties statewide while incorporating the new leases into the database currently kept by DNR Lands and Facilities staff with the current PHG program. This involves coordinating and preparing lease agreements, information sheets and maps, while leading efforts with Lands and Facilities staff to ensure all properties enrolled are correctly mapped on WDNR website including showing the four focus areas which encompass 37 counties; 30% – Prepare and coordinate program protocol for statewide monitoring of this new program; 10% – Increase public awareness of program by preparing press releases, giving presentations and promoting program wherever possible; 10% – Prepare and lead effort in reporting program success to fulfill federal grant requirements. This involves working closely with other states through AFWA (Association of Fish & Wildlife Agencies) to prepare a nationwide survey to show success of the program nationwide.

Knowledge Required:
Ability to map properties using GIS ArcView; knowledge of wildlife biology & wildlife management techniques, GPS & Coordinate system & map reading skills; Previous experience using Microsoft Office Suite Products. Previous experience with administration and budgets. Ability to communicate effectively with co-workers, private landowners, and the public.

Application Deadline: April 19, 2011

To Apply: Submit Form 9100-162 LTE Application (hard copy also available at most DNR offices and at WDNR website) , resume, cover letter and references to:

Melissa J. Sparrow-Lien
1155 Pilgrim Road
Plymouth, WI 53073
RE: Job Code 6861

Application materials will be reviewed and the most qualified candidates will be invited for an interview.