Job Description

Job Requisition ID: 56201 Opening Date: 06/04/2026 Closing Date: 06/18/2026 Agency: Department of Natural Resources Class Title: NATURAL RESOURCES SPECIALIST - 28832 Skill Option: Wildlife Salary: $6,135 – $8,790 a month (effective 7/1/26) Position Overview The Illinois Department of Natural Resources is seeking a Natural Resources Specialist in Wildlife District 17 for the Office of Resource Conservation. The role provides professional land, water, and wildlife resource management, completes high-priority wildlife investigations, and offers technical assistance on private and public lands. The specialist participates in regional planning, develops a work plan, and serves as liaison with State and Federal agencies to coordinate wildlife resource management. Essential Functions Provides comprehensive land, water, and wildlife resource management and planning services on all public lands within the district. Describes and executes wildlife disease management and monitoring for diseases such as chronic wasting disease, epizootic hemorrhagic disease, and avian influenza. Provides comprehensive resource management and planning services on all private lands within the district. Prepares and distributes information concerning wildlife, wildlife habitat, and related subjects to the public and relevant organizations. Conducts wildlife capture, marking, and surveys using specialized conservation techniques and equipment. Acts as liaison with State and Federal agencies and other organizations (e.g., Illinois EPA, USDA, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers) to coordinate wildlife resource planning. Maintains technical records and reports such as accomplishment reports, activity reports, programmatic cost reports, and expenditure accounts related to wildlife habitat management. Performs other duties as required or assigned reasonably within the scope of the duties enumerated above. Minimum Qualifications Knowledge, skill, and mental ability equivalent to a master’s degree in wildlife resource management or a directly related biological science; or a bachelor’s degree in wildlife resource management or a directly related biological science 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 responsible for planning and implementing natural resource management practices on public and/or private land. Extensive knowledge of state and federal laws, rules, and regulations pertaining to wildlife management and conservation. One year of experience collecting information and assisting in analyzing and evaluating 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 terrain, and transport equipment without mechanical assistance. Ability to travel in the performance of duties. Work Hours: Monday – Friday 8:00 am – 4:00 pm with a 30‑minute lunch break Location: 1660 W Polk Ave, Charleston, Illinois 61920 County: Coles #J-18808-Ljbffr

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