Becoming a Fish and Wildlife Biologist: A Career in Conservation
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) serves as the primary federal agency responsible for the conservation and protection of our nation’s wildlife. For professionals passionate about ecological integrity and habitat restoration, a career as a Fish and Wildlife Biologist is the ultimate pursuit. We are currently accepting applications for a position at our Illinois-Iowa Ecological Services Field Office in Moline, Illinois. This role is a vital component of our mission to manage biological resources and ensure the long-term health of diverse ecosystems.
Job Responsibilities
As a Biologist, your day-to-day will be dynamic and impactful. Key duties include:
- Species Recovery: Planning and executing status surveys for candidate and endangered species.
- Consultation: Providing technical expertise for Section 7 consultations to ensure federal projects comply with the Endangered Species Act (ESA).
- Habitat Management: Designing and implementing restoration projects on private and public lands, including surveying, staking, and monitoring construction.
- Farm Bill Integration: Collaborating with agencies like the Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) on programs like the Wetland Reserve Program.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Negotiating with project proponents, writing agreements, and delivering presentations to the public and Congressional staff.
Requirements
Candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Education: A bachelor’s degree (or higher) in biological sciences or a related natural resource field.
- Experience: Must meet specialized experience requirements equivalent to GS-09 (for GS-11 entry) or GS-11 (for GS-12 entry).
- Compliance: U.S. Citizenship, valid driver’s license, and successful background adjudication.
Grade Level Comparison Table
| Feature | GS-11 Level | GS-12 Level |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Professional support | Advanced coordination |
| ESA Role | Facilitating activities | Managing wide-ranging programs |
| Project Design | Contributing to plans | Independent design & oversight |
| Regulatory | Assisting in reviews | Lead in rule/legislation review |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $75,871 to $118,221 annually. Beyond the base salary, employees enjoy the comprehensive federal benefits package, including:
- Health, dental, and vision insurance.
- Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) and TSP.
- Generous leave accrual (vacation and sick days).
- Opportunities for professional development.
Application Tips
To be successful, pay close attention to your resume. It must be no longer than two pages. Ensure you highlight specific duties and time-in-grade. Include all required transcripts and your most recent performance appraisal. Utilize the USAJOBS portal to track your status throughout the process.
Working for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the American landscape. If you possess the drive to restore habitats and the expertise to protect endangered species, we encourage you to apply for this position in Moline.
Why This Fish And Wildlife Biologist Job Matters
Protect and restore America’s natural heritage with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. We are seeking a dedicated Biologist to lead endangered species recovery and habitat restoration efforts in the heart of the Midwest.
Fish And Wildlife Biologist Job Overview
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is looking for a skilled Fish and Wildlife Biologist to join our Illinois-Iowa Ecological Services Field Office. This role focuses on implementing the Endangered Species Act, conducting field research, and managing habitat restoration projects across diverse landscapes. You will be instrumental in bridging the gap between federal mandates and on-the-ground conservation, ensuring that our nation's biodiversity thrives for future generations.
Requirements for Fish And Wildlife Biologist
- U.S. Citizenship
- Bachelor’s degree or higher in biological sciences, agriculture, natural resource management, or chemistry
- Valid driver’s license
- Successful background investigation
- Registration with Selective Service (if applicable for males born after Dec 31, 1959)
- One-year probationary period
Preferred Qualifications for Fish And Wildlife Biologist
- Prior federal experience in a GS-09 or GS-11 role
- Graduate-level education (up to PhD level) in a related biological field
- Direct experience implementing the Endangered Species Act
- Proven history of coordinating habitat restoration on private or public lands
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Comprehensive health and life insurance
- âś“Federal retirement savings plan (TSP)
- âś“Paid vacation and sick leave
- âś“Opportunities for professional development and training
- âś“Potential for career advancement through a ladder-grade structure
- âś“Telework eligibility
đź’ˇ How to Apply Fish And Wildlife Biologist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Fish And Wildlife Biologist Job
- Review the full vacancy announcement in detail.
- Prepare a resume (maximum of 2 pages, minimum 10-point font).
- Gather necessary documentation including transcripts and performance appraisals.
- Click the Apply Online link to start your questionnaire.
- Complete the mandatory USA Hire Assessment if prompted.
- Submit your complete package by the closing date.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Ensure your resume strictly follows the 2-page limit to avoid disqualification.
- Be specific in your resume about hours worked per week and dates of employment.
- Submit your most recent performance appraisal; if unavailable, provide a written statement of explanation.
- Proofread your application for clarity and ensure all required SF-50 forms are attached for current federal employees.
- Don't wait until the last minute; give yourself time to troubleshoot technical issues with the portal.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the career ladder for this position?
This position is a GS-11/12 multi-grade career ladder, meaning you may be promoted to the next grade level without further competition once you meet all performance and regulatory requirements.
Is travel required for this role?
Yes, the role involves field work which requires physical exertion, navigating varied terrains, and potential travel for site inspections and interagency meetings.
Can I submit more than one resume?
Only the latest resume you submit will be reviewed by the hiring team, so ensure your final submission is your most accurate and complete version.
Is relocation support provided?
*A: Relocation incentives may be offered on a case-by-case basis based on agency needs.*
What is the work environment like?
*A: It is a mix of office work and field duties. You should be prepared for various weather conditions and physical tasks.*
Job from U.S. Fish And Wildlife Service
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is a bureau within the Department of the Interior. Since the founding of the River Basins Program over 60 years ago, our agency has been at the forefront of environmental stewardship. Our Illinois-Iowa Field Office, established in 1971, plays a critical role in reviewing federal projects, supporting endangered species recovery, and building lasting conservation partnerships in the Midwest.