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Pheasants Forever

Grassroots nonprofit upland habitat conservation

Farm Bill Wildlife Biologist 1 or 2

Full-TimePosted on 10/26/2026Deadline 11/29/26
$40.5k - $52k
Junior, Mid
Bachelor of Science (BS)
Ridgway, IL, USA
In PersonLocated within USDA Service Centers; occasional service to counties outside the primary work area may be required.
Academic & Institutional ResearchEnvironmental Sciences

About the job

Requirements
  • Ability to communicate clearly and effectively with landowners and partner agency staff.
  • Ability to work independently with little supervision and with diverse clientele.
  • Knowledge of wildlife ecology, grassland, wetland, and early succession habitat management, including the ability to use various habitat management tools in developing management plans.
  • Strong background in prescribed fire implementation and education.
  • Knowledge of conservation and wildlife programs provided by the federal Farm Bill, other state entities, and local entities.
  • Strong organizational skills, time management, and attention to detail.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, and ArcGIS.
  • Valid driver’s license; use of a personal vehicle is required, with mileage reimbursement provided.
  • Must be able to obtain USDA Federal Security Clearance.
  • A Bachelor of Science degree in Wildlife Management or a closely related natural resources field is required.
Responsibilities
  • Provide technical assistance focused on wildlife habitat and guidance to private landowners, government agencies, non-government organizations, and other groups, primarily through federal Farm Bill programs; training is provided jointly by NRCS and PFQF.
  • Communicate program requirements, complete site visits to determine eligibility, and develop contract documents for applicants and participants in Farm Bill conservation programs and other local and state programs.
  • Review plans and specifications for feasibility of implementation under Farm Bill program contract rules.
  • For CRP, conduct evaluations and conservation planning for new and re-enrolled contracts, mid-contract management and maintenance evaluations and recommendations, and status reviews.
  • Provide on-site landowner technical assistance for conservation practice implementation.
  • Coordinate and conduct training sessions, including workshops and tours for landowners and resource professionals.
  • Work with local PF/QF chapters to assist with habitat program education and outreach and provide technical assistance for habitat projects.
Desired Qualifications
  • Knowledge of habitat requirements for grassland- and farmland-associated wildlife species.
  • Knowledge of how federal Farm Bill conservation and wildlife programs are implemented in an agricultural landscape.
  • Proven experience working with USDA Farm Bill programs.
  • Practical and/or professional experience in farming and agricultural disciplines.

About the company

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Pheasants Forever

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Website

Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever are a nonprofit focused on protecting and improving upland habitats in North America. They coordinate a nationwide network of more than 500,000 members and 754 local chapters, with each chapter deciding how 100 percent of locally raised funds are spent. This grassroots structure supports habitat projects, public access, education, and advocacy, translating member donations into local and statewide conservation work. Since 1982, the organization has funded over 580,000 habitat projects across 28.8 million acres, funded by community volunteers and local fundraising while maintaining a national voice on conservation policy. The goal is to conserve upland habitats for pheasants, quail, and other wildlife by empowering local chapters to fund and manage projects and by influencing federal and state conservation policy.

Company Size

201-500

Company Stage

Grant

Total Funding

$200K

Headquarters

White Bear Lake, Minnesota

Founded

1982

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Simplify's Take

What believers are saying

  • August 2026 hired James Roberts to scale national fundraising and planned giving.
  • September 2026 PATH opened 10,515 Dakota acres to hunters, proving program execution.
  • May 2026 Clay County partnership protected 1,900 acres, expanding PF's conservation footprint.

What critics are saying

  • PF depends heavily on federal programs like CRP, RCPP, and Voluntary Public Access.
  • Grassroots fundraising needs constant sponsor renewals; one lapse quickly hits chapter programming.
  • If farm-policy support weakens in 2027, habitat acquisitions and access payments shrink sharply.

What makes Pheasants Forever unique

  • PF controls 740 chapters, letting locals direct 100% of raised funds.
  • PF and QF combine habitat, access, advocacy, and education under one grassroots model.
  • October 2026 partnerships with Orvis, Purina, SportDOG, and SoundGear amplify conservation brands.

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Benefits

  • Health Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan
  • 401(k) Company Match
  • Student Loan Assistance
  • Paid Vacation
  • Bereavement Leave
  • Paid Sick Leave
  • Paid Holidays

Growth & Insights and Company News

6 month growth

9%

1 year growth

8%

2 year growth

8%
Pheasants Forever
Oct 20th, 2026
Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever hire Martin Ward as regional representative in Southern Illinois.

Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever hire Martin Ward as regional representative in Southern Illinois. Providing leadership for chapter volunteers in the Land of Lincoln October 20, 2026 - Thompsonville, Ill. - Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever are proud to introduce Martin Ward as the new regional representative for Southern Illinois. Ward will partner with active chapter volunteers to contribute to the organization's goals of improving public and private lands conservation efforts for pheasants, quail and other wildlife. "I'm excited to have Martin on our team in Illinois," said Jerry McDonald, PF & QF's director of chapter and volunteer services. "His passion for conservation, experience in education and membership growth, and dedication to serving others are all tools that will help him to thrive in this position and to serve our volunteers well." Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever empower county and local chapters with the responsibility to determine how 100 percent of their locally raised conservation funds will be spent - the only national conservation organization that operates through this grassroots structure. As a result, chapter volunteers can see the fruits of their efforts locally, while belonging to a larger national organization with a voice on federal and state conservation policy. Ward will help guide local chapters to achieve the organization's mission in Illinois. Growing up on a family farm, Ward developed a deep appreciation for conservation and learned the importance of leaving the land better than he found it. His lifelong passion for wildlife, hunting, and habitat management has fueled a strong commitment to conservation. Most recently, Ward served as a membership representative with the National Federation of Independent Business, where he successfully promoted organizational missions, recruited members, and built strong community engagement. Prior to that, Martin spent five years as an agriculture educator and FFA advisor, teaching natural resources, forestry, and animal science while growing chapter participation, leading fundraising efforts, and securing grant funding. "Conservation has always meant a great deal in my life. I've sought to be a strong advocate for wildlife conservation and a good steward of the land and natural resources, and I'm proud to bring my passion for the outdoors to this role," Ward said. "I'm really looking forward to working with local volunteers and amplifying the organization's habitat conservation mission." About Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever make up the nation's largest nonprofit organization dedicated to upland habitat conservation. This community of more than 560,000 members, supporters and partners is dedicated to the protection of its uplands through habitat improvement, public access, education and advocacy. A network of 740 local chapters spread across North America determine how 100 percent of their locally raised funds are spent - the only national conservation organization that operates through this grassroots structure. Since its creation in 1982, the organization has dedicated more than $1 billion to 585,000 habitat projects benefiting 35 million acres.

106.5 Lakes FM
Oct 1st, 2026
Shelby Oldenkamp is new Conservation Specialist for Pheasants Forever.

Shelby Oldenkamp is new Conservation Specialist for Pheasants Forever. (Martin County) - Pheasants Forever has hired Shelby Oldenkamp as its new Southwest Minnesota Precision Agriculture and Conservation Specialist serving Martin County. Oldenkamp grew up farming and has a degree in animal science from Iowa State University. She previously spent a year and a half working as a precision agriculture specialist in Austin. In her new role, she'll work with farmers and conservation groups to improve farm profitability while protecting soil and creating wildlife habitat. Oldenkamp says removing less productive areas of farmland from production can help farmers improve their return on investment while providing habitat for pheasants, turkeys and other wildlife. She's looking forward to partnering with local soil and water conservation districts and Pheasants Forever volunteers to protect the land for future generations. More information is available on the Martin County Pheasants Forever Facebook page.

Pheasants Forever
Sep 21st, 2026
Purina Pro Plan renews national sponsorship as Official Dog Food partner of Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever.

Purina Pro Plan renews national sponsorship as Official Dog Food partner of Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever. Driving sporting dog nutrition and the places bird dogs love to roam September 21, 2026 - St. Paul, Minn. - Pheasants Forever (PF) and Quail Forever (QF) are proud to announce Pro Plan as a renewing national sponsor, upholding its title as the Official Dog Food of The Habitat Organization. Continuing a decades-long partnership, Pro Plan will continue to support the organization's mission through national events, publications, digital platforms and educational initiatives. "Pro Plan's commitment to the sporting dog community aligns perfectly with our mission to create lasting conservation impacts across North America," said Chris Kalis, vice president of corporate partnerships for PF & QF. "As a valued partner, Pro Plan helps strengthen our ability to serve members, improve wildlife habitat, and support the bird dogs that make our outdoor traditions possible. The result is a partnership that delivers measurable benefits for conservation, sporting dog owners, and Pro Plan customers." With 70 percent of PF & QF members owning one or more dogs, the expertise that Pro Plan provides on canine nutrition, conditioning, training and performance is highly valued by the organization's members and followers. Pro Plan shares this knowledge monthly as part of "Sporting Dog Shorts," a video and blog compilation featuring Purina's expert veterinarians and training prostaff throughout the country. Likewise, their products and expertise are reflected in the organization's publications, on the floor of National Pheasant Fest & Quail Classic as a diamond sponsor, and their support of conservation initiatives, past land acquisitions, and long-form videos. "Bird dogs need birds to find and wild places to find them," said Karl Gunzer, director of sporting dog programs for Pro Plan. "No organization does more to make birds and protect habitat than Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever. That's why our partnership spans more than 40 years, and why Pro Plan is proud to be the Official Dog Food of The Habitat Organization." For over 90 years, Purina has been guided by the belief that pets and people are better together. Their quest to drive pet nutrition forward and conduct industry-leading research on the well-being of pets pushes the company to do more year after year; including Pro Plan's support of the places bird dogs love to roam through the partnership with Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever. About Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever make up the nation's largest nonprofit organization dedicated to upland habitat conservation. This community of more than 560,000 members, supporters and partners is dedicated to the protection of its uplands through habitat improvement, public access, education and advocacy. A network of 740 local chapters spread across North America determine how 100 percent of their locally raised funds are spent - the only national conservation organization that operates through this grassroots structure. Since its creation in 1982, the organization has dedicated more than $1 billion to 585,000 habitat projects benefiting 32 million acres. About Purina Nestlé Purina PetCare creates richer lives for pets and the people who love them. Founded in 1894, Purina has helped dogs and cats live longer, healthier lives by offering scientifically based nutritional innovations. Purina manufactures some of the world's most trusted and popular pet care products, including Purina ONE, Pro Plan, Friskies and Tidy Cats. Its more than 11,000 U.S. associates take pride in its trusted pet food, treat and litter brands that feed 46 million dogs and 68 million cats every year. Nearly 500 Purina scientists, veterinarians, and pet care experts ensure its commitment to unsurpassed quality and nutrition. Over the past five years, Purina has contributed more than $150 million towards organizations that bring, and keep, people and pets together, as well as those that help its communities and environment thrive. Purina is part of Nestlé, a global leader in Nutrition, Health and Wellness. For more information, visit purina.com or subscribe here to get the latest Purina news. Media Contact Jared Wiklund

Pheasants Forever
Sep 17th, 2026
SportDOG(R) Brand renews national sponsorship with Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever.

SportDOG(R) Brand renews national sponsorship with Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever. Longtime partnership will continue through 2029 St. Paul, Minn. - September 17, 2026 - Pheasants Forever (PF) and Quail Forever (QF) are proud to announce SportDOG(R) Brand as a renewing national sponsor and the Official Training Collar company of The Habitat Organization. The partnership provides SportDOG with the opportunity to continue their commitment to Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever's conservation mission, while also providing a wide array of marketing opportunities to educate the organization's members and supporters about their innovative line of products. "SportDOG has been a part of the Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever family for many years; we're thrilled to continue our outstanding partnership with them," said Chris Kalis, Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever's vice president of corporate partnerships. "Bird dogs play an integral role in the lives of upland hunters and their families. This collaboration provides the opportunity to celebrate that connection while giving back to quality habitat and the places bird dogs love to roam." Founded in 2003 and still based in Knoxville, Tennessee, SportDOG is built on over two decades of field-proven performance. As one of the most trusted brands for hunting dog training across the country and the world, SportDOG offers industry-leading e-collars paired with training tips, gear guides, and safety measures to ensure bird dogs can reach their full potential. "For more than two decades, Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever have been an incredible partner for SportDOG, and we're proud to continue that relationship through 2029," said Haley Corr, SportDOG brand manager. "This partnership is special to us because of the organization's grassroots approach and the tangible impact it has on habitat and access. We're excited to support the chapters, volunteers, hunters, and conservationists working every day to improve the places where upland birds, and bird dogs, thrive." In addition to print advertising in the PF & QF Journals, the following highlight key components of the relationship between SportDOG and Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever: * National Pheasant Fest & Quail Classic - SportDOG Brand will be recognized as a gold sponsor and co-presenting sponsor of the Bird Dog Stage at National Pheasant Fest & Quail Classic, coming to Omaha, Nebraska, on March 5-7, 2027. * Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever's "On the Wing" Podcast - SportDOG Brand will be featured on the podcast twice a year as a sponsor and content contributor. * Chapter Pass-Through Program - As a national sponsor, SportDOG Brand will support the organization's grassroots chapter network by offering a wide selection of dog training products to help volunteers raise funds for critical conservation projects. * PF & QF Build a Wildlife Area Film - SportDOG will sponsor a full-length film project titled "Build A Wildlife Area for Birds," with an anticipated release in September 2026. About SportDOG(R) Brand SportDOG Brand is owned by Radio Systems Corporation(R), a manufacturer of electronic dog-training gear and accessories, based in Knoxville, Tennessee. SportDOG product Lines include training e-collars, GPS tracking and training systems, bark-control collars, containment systems, Launcher electronics and other training aids. About Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever make up the nation's largest nonprofit organization dedicated to upland habitat conservation. This community of more than 550,000 members, supporters and partners is dedicated to the protection of its uplands through habitat improvement, public access, education and advocacy. A network of 740local chapters spread across North America determine how 100 percent of their locally raised funds are spent - the only national conservation organization that operates through this grassroots structure. Since its creation in 1982, the organization has dedicated more than $1 billion to 580,000 habitat projects benefiting 32 million acres. Media Contact Casey Sill (402)-657-4143

Pheasants Forever
Sep 8th, 2026
SoundGear renews sponsorship with the habitat organization through 2028.

SoundGear renews sponsorship with the habitat organization through 2028. Purchase SoundGear products, contribute to the sounds of America's grasslands St. Paul, Minn. - September 8, 2026 - Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever are proud to announce SoundGear(TM) as a renewing national sponsor and the organization's official hearing protection partner. The relationship provides SoundGear with a wide array of opportunities to educate upland hunters about the company's innovative hearing protection products, while making a financial commitment to wildlife habitat conservation. "The tones of the uplands are what help transform everyday hunts into lifelong memories; utilizing SoundGear products can protect the hearing of hunters for the long-term while supporting the grassland vistas of pheasant and quail country," said Chris Kalis, Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever vice president of corporate partnerships. "We look forward to continuing a longstanding partnership with SoundGear and providing top-of-the-line hearing protection and enhancement products for our members and supporters." From an uplander's perspective, SoundGear products digitally enhance environmental sounds like wing beats or dogs running through the grass while simultaneously protecting the hearing of hunters and shooters from harmful, high-decibel noises. Likewise, SoundGear's unique technology provides situational awareness and directionality, allowing users to identify the faintest sounds outdoors. Their innovative line of products provides practical solutions for hunting, racing, competitive shooting, motorsports, law enforcement, construction, industry, concerts, farming, and much more. "Strong partnerships with industry leaders like Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever allow us to make a greater impact than we could alone," said Michael Scholl, Chief Business Officer at Starkey. "Together, we're helping educate hunters on the importance of hearing protection while supporting conservation efforts that preserve the sights and sounds of America's uplands. We're proud to continue this relationship and serve a community that values both outdoor traditions and long-term hearing health." SoundGear's flagship products found at various Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever events throughout the nation include: * SoundGear Phantom: The world's first - and still most popular - custom, rechargeable, and Bluetooth(R) compatible hearing aid and protection device. * SoundGear Shield: Small, light and ready to take everywhere, SoundGear Shield delivers dynamic digital hearing protection anytime you need it. In addition to marketing in the Pheasants Forever Journal of Upland Conservation, Quail Forever Journal and the organization's online channels, SoundGear has sponsored the 2026 Shotgun Review and will be featured in several films over the coming year. The company will also be recognized as a sponsor of National Pheasant Fest & Quail Classic 2027 in Omaha, Nebraska, on March 5-7. About Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever make up the nation's largest nonprofit organization dedicated to upland habitat conservation. This community of more than 500,000 members, supporters and partners is dedicated to the protection of its uplands through habitat improvement, public access, education and advocacy. A network of 754 local chapters spread across North America determine how 100 percent of their locally raised funds are spent - the only national conservation organization that operates through this grassroots structure. Since its creation in 1982, the organization has dedicated more than $1 billion to 580,000 habitat projects benefiting 31 million acres. Media Contact Mikayla Peper 715-294-0688