Private Land Biologist – Idaho (2 positions)

MDF Private Land Biologist – Idaho (2 Positions)
Reports to: MDF Director of Private Land jobshiringnearme.org
Classification: Salaried/Exempt
Start Date: On or After October 1, 2025
Term: 3 years (with potential for extension based on funding)
Salary: $60,000 – $75,000 DOE plus benefits (Health Insurance, Paid Time Off, and 401K)

position Locations
Based in Natural Resources jobshiringnearme.org Service (NRCS) field offices in Idaho (specific locations to be determined in coordination with MDF and NRCS)

• Position 1 – Arco, Rexburg, Blackfoot
• Position 2 – Gooding, Twin Falls

These positions will be stationed in one of the above local NRCS offices. Work-from-office with regular fieldwork and travel across priority landscapes.

Job Summary
The Mule Deer Foundation (MDF) is seeking qualified candidates to join a dynamic and expanding conservation team. MDF is hiring two Private Land Biologists to support the delivery of strategic habitat conservation efforts in Idaho. These positions are funded through the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) and will be embedded in NRCS field offices to increase capacity for private lands conservation.

The Biologists will work in close coordination with MDF, NRCS, Idaho Fish and Game (IFG) and other partners to implement conservation practices that improve habitat connectivity, reduce wildlife mortality, and restore degraded landscapes. These positions will focus on priority areas identified in SO3362 State Action Plans and NRCS conservation priorities.

Biologists will provide technical assistance to landowners, support enrollment in Farm Bill programs such as EQIP and CSP, and lead the planning, implementation, and monitoring of habitat projects. These efforts will include invasive species removal, fencing modifications, grazing management planning and improvements, and habitat restoration activities on private lands. The positions will also be responsible for tracking and reporting progress toward grant metrics and outcomes.
Biologists will report directly to the MDF Director of Private Land jobshiringnearme.org and will be key members of MDF’s conservation delivery team. These roles require strong collaboration with federal and state agencies, tribal partners, private landowners, and other stakeholders to advance MDF’s mission and support long-term conservation goals across Idaho.

Primary Responsibilities

• Serve as an MDF conservation delivery staff member embedded in NRCS field offices, working in close coordination with MDF, NRCS, and IFG to implement private land conservation projects.
• Deliver technical assistance to private landowners to support enrollment in NRCS conservation programs (EQIP, CSP, etc.).
• Develop and implement conservation plans and habitat restoration projects in priority areas identified by MDF, NRCS and IFG.
• Lead on-the-ground implementation of practices including fencing modifications, invasive species removal, grazing management improvements, and habitat restoration.
• Monitor project outcomes and ensure accurate annual reporting of metrics such as acres improved, miles of fencing modified, and landowners engaged.
• Coordinate with MDF staff, NRCS planners, IFG biologists and other partners to identify opportunities and align efforts with SO3362 Idaho state action plan and NRCS conservation priorities.
• Assist landowners with conservation planning, Application development, and project design.
• Maintain regular communication with agency staff, tribal partners, and MDF leadership to ensure project alignment and progress.

Essential Duties

• Build and maintain collaborative relationships with federal and state agencies, tribal partners, private landowners, and conservation NGOs to foster long-term stewardship.
• Promote voluntary conservation through outreach, education
  , and engagement at workshops, field tours, and community events.
• Represent MDF professionally in meetings, presentations, and public forums, serving as a trusted liaison between landowners and conservation partners.
• Track and report financial and administrative aspects of projects, including invoicing, documentation, and compliance with grant requirements.
• Support MDF’s internal coordination and strategic planning by contributing to program development, reporting, and communications.
• Maintain proficiency in conservation tools and technologies, including GIS mapping, field data collection, and digital reporting platforms.
• Adapt to changing field conditions and priorities, demonstrating flexibility, initiative, and problem-solving in remote and rural settings.

Education and Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in wildlife biology, natural resources, rangeland management, ecology, or related field (Master’s preferred)
• Minimum 3 years of experience in private lands conservation, habitat restoration, or NRCS program delivery

Skills

• Strong understanding of rangeland ecology, wildlife habitat requirements, and conservation planning
• Familiarity with NRCS programs and Farm Bill conservation tools
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills
• Proficiency in GIS (ArcGIS), Microsoft Office, and field data collection tools
• Ability to work independently and travel frequently

Abilities and Work Environment

• Comfortable working in remote field conditions and rural communities
• Able to manage multiple projects and deadlines
• Willingness to travel across Idaho for fieldwork and partner coordination
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team-oriented environment