Champaigne, IL

Position Title: Habitat Strike Team Technician

Organization: Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever

Location: Champaigne, IL

Position Overview: The Habitat Strike Team and this position is part of a partnership between Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) Illinois Recreational Access Program (IRAP) and Pheasants Forever, Inc. The incumbent will conduct habitat management work on IRAP leased private land and may also work on other IDNR private lands programs. This position is also responsible for maintenance and repair of equipment. This is a temporary full-time, employee of Pheasants Forever, Inc. and will receive daily leadership from the Strike Team Coordinator and possibly Pheasants Forever staff and/or IDNR staff. This position will be located in Central or West Central Illinois.

Duties: The Habitat Strike Team Technician will assist with the implementation of wildlife management plans. Major responsibilities include:

• Implementing habitat management work on IRAP leased property and other IDNR private lands and public wildlife areas as directed.
• Participating in the construction, fabrication, maintenance and repair of Strike Team equipment and supplies.
• Assisting with the procuring of supplies and equipment.
• Providing public information about IRAP and other habitat management techniques, as directed.
• Contributing to data collection for scientific field studies and surveys.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Requires a minimum of a high school degree, and preferably a 2 yr. Associates degree or equivalent work experience in a natural resources field, such as, forestry, wildlife biology, fisheries, ecology, or a related field. A basic understanding of environmental, agricultural and/or natural resource science.
• Ability to operate, maintain, and transport (trailering and securing) farming equipment (tractor, planter, mower).
• Experience and knowledge of general farm equipment maintenance, repair, and welding fabrication.
• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively with colleagues and partner agencies.
• Ability to work independently with little supervision.
• Knowledge of wildlife ecology, forestry, wetland and grassland management including the ability to utilize various habitat management equipment and tools in the development of wildlife habitat.
• Prescribed fire, S/130 and S/190, certificate is required within 45 days of hiring.
• Good verbal/written communication and organizational skills.
• Valid driver’s license required.
• Chemical Applicators License is required within 45 days of hiring

Start/End Date: Start 2-4 weeks post successful job offer. Position lasts 7-8 months from start date (position may be extended pending funding and job performance).

Salary/Pay: $16-$20 per hour depending on experience, plus benefits (see benefits summary).

Application Deadline: June 4

How to Apply: Please combine your cover letter, resume and 3 references into a single Microsoft Word document or Adobe Acrobat PDF file before uploading to the “Resume” area of your application on the recruitment website.