Wildlife Programs Section Manager

About the role

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources is hiring a Natural Resources Manager III (Wildlife) for the Office of Resource Conservation, serving as Wildlife Programs Section Manager. The position is based at the IDNR headquarters in Springfield and is a full-time, salaried union position with an anticipated hybrid schedule of 2 to 5 days per week in the office.

Key responsibilities

• Act as the lead administrator implementing and coordinating wildlife resource planning, management and research activities within the Division.
• Coordinate with Program Managers and the Field Operations Section to develop and implement annual wildlife program plans of work and share management recommendations with field staff and the public.
• Coordinate with the Federal Aid and Special Fund Section for administering federal aid funds and special fund grants.
• Conduct research program development with agencies such as the IL Natural History Survey, the US Fish & Wildlife Service, the US Forest Service and others.
• Provide statewide professional counseling on wildlife programs and evaluate State and Federal policies, programs, procedures, legislation and administrative rules, recommending and implementing changes.
• Serve as full-line supervisor and as the Division's liaison with Federal and State governments and private organizations.
• Plan, control and direct the annual program budget and set priorities.

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree in wildlife or a closely related biological science.
• Six years of progressively responsible professional experience in wildlife, including two years of professional supervisory experience.
• Valid driver's license and ability to travel, including overnight stays.
• Completion of a background check and self-disclosure of criminal history.
• Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis; the State does not sponsor visas.

What we offer

• Anticipated starting salary of $8,493 per month, with a full range of $8,493 to $12,124 per month.
• Health, vision and dental insurance, a retirement plan and deferred compensation options.
• Flexible or remote work schedules may be available for some positions.

Applications must be submitted electronically through the State of Illinois online application system; paper applications are not accepted. The position is subject to the Illinois Governmental Ethics Act economic interest statement and revolving door restrictions.