Forest Ungulate Research Biologist - NR Spec Sr WL Research

Job summary

Plan, conduct, analyze, and report research and surveys on forest ungulate ecology, mortality, habitat and predator interactions, and population dynamics. Communicate findings to scientific and public audiences, develop and apply research techniques, support laboratory operations, and coordinate annual aerial surveys.

Job details

Working Title: Forest Ungulate Research Biologist Job Class: Natural Resources Specialist Senior - Wildlife Research Agency: MN Department of Natural Resources Job ID: 98002 Location: Grand Rapids Telework Eligible: Yes Full/Part Time: Full-Time Regular/Temporary: Unlimited Who May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekers Date Posted: 11/05/2026 Closing Date: 11/25/2026 Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: Department of Natural Resources Division/Unit: Fish and Wildlife Work Shift/Work Hours: Day Shift Days of Work: Monday - Friday Travel Required: Yes - Up to 25% of the time Salary Range: $28.75 - $42.16 / hourly; $60,030 - $88,030 / annually Classified Status: Classified Bargaining Unit/Union: Minnesota Association of Professional Employees / MAPE FLSA Status: Exempt-Professional Designated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities: Yes The work you'll do is more than just a job. At the State of Minnesota, employees play a critical role in developing policies, providing essential services, and working to improve the well-being and quality of life for all Minnesotans. The State of Minnesota is committed to equity and inclusion, and invests in employees by providing benefits, support resources, and training and development opportunities. This position exists (1) to plan, conduct, analyze, and report on studies of forest wildlife species, both independently and under direction from Research Scientists, who provide overall direction for statewide research programs on forest game species; (2) to integrate research and survey results and convey this knowledge to wildlife staff, peer committees, other professionals within and outside Minnesota, and the public; (3) to develop and evaluate new techniques for assessing and managing forest wildlife resources; (4) to assist in organizing, maintaining, and operating laboratories under the Forest Wildlife Research Group; and (5) design, coordinate, and conduct aerial survey flights annually in small, fixed wing aircraft.. Responsibilities Include To identify information needs and to plan and design original research and survey projects in collaboration with Research Scientists, on the ecology and management of forest ungulates, to meet needs for increased scientific knowledge, improved technology, and improved management of Minnesota’s forest game resources. To organize and conduct research activities and surveys concerning cause-specific mortality, habitat and predator interactions and ungulate population dynamics, working both independently and in conjunction with Research Scientists, using appropriate techniques so study objectives are met and findings are statistically and scientifically valid. To analyze data and interpret research results so valid inferences can be made and appropriate conclusions can be drawn. Report results and conclusions of research and population monitoring projects in oral and written format so that findings can be used by scientists, natural resource managers, administrators, and the public within Minnesota, the U.S., and internationally. To remain current in knowledge, technologies, and peer collaborations so that the most modern scientific understanding and practices are used to conduct research. Develop or apply advanced, state-of-the-art techniques and technologies to evaluate defined problems. This position requires the incumbent to work in adverse weather and environmental conditions such as heat, rain/humidity, extreme cold, and being exposed to ticks and biting insects. This position has a flexible work arrangement and may be eligible to telework on a part-time basis, which is subject to change. If approved, the employee would be required to complete an annual telework agreement. Minimum Qualifications A master's degree (thesis) in wildlife ecology or closely related field, and two (2) years of professional (post-graduation) wildlife research experience; or a PhD in wildlife ecology or closely related field. Technical knowledge of wildlife ecology, management, and conservation of Minnesota ungulates and their predators. Ability to design, implement, analyze, interpret and report management-oriented wildlife research. Computer proficiency, including knowledge of databases, spreadsheets, and statistical programs sufficient to manage data input, retrieval and compilation, maintain databases, and train others to use these systems. Experience with ArcPro and Program R, or equivalent statistical software. Technical knowledge of statistics sufficient to interpret and analyze ecological data properly. Experience with safely capturing, handling, and anesthetizing wildlife, and experience tracking wildlife using radiotelemetry or GPS, including triangulation for calf or fawn searches, radio homing, collar testing, developing capture and monitoring protocols, and responding to mortality events Ability to communicate with diverse audiences, including both public and peer groups, sufficient to document and disseminate completed research results. Ability to work effectively and courteously with people. Experience leading the work of others. Ability to prepare final reports, including authoring and publishing of peer-reviewed scientific journal articles. Demonstrated communication skills sufficient to maintain exemplary relationships with Minnesota wildlife managers and answer relevant research questions. Demonstrated ability to safely operate a variety of equipment, including chainsaws, firearms, 4-wheel-drive pick-ups, winches, snowmobiles, ATV/UTVs and trailers, in challenging field conditions. Preferred Qualifications PH.D. in wildlife ecology or a closely related area. Research and / or management experience with moose, elk, and white-tailed deer. Experience directly related to the publication of research results in the peer-reviewed literature, including at least two (2) manuscripts in review, in press, or previously published in a wildlife management-oriented or applied focus journal. Experience designing and/or conducting aerial surveys and conducting aerial telemetry from fixed wing aircraft, helicopter, and/or unmanned aerial vehicles. Proficiency conducting statistical analysis of wildlife data use frequentist and Bayesian approaches in R. Additional Requirements This position requires an unrestricted Class D Driver’s License with a clear driving record. Per DNR Fleet Policy, only individuals 18 years of age or older with a valid driver’s license may operate equipment and vehicles on behalf of the Agency. Applicants must have the ability to meet the physical requirements and work in the environmental conditions of the position, with or without reasonable accommodations. In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire. Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship for employment visa status (e.g., H-1B status). It Is The Policy Of The Department Of Natural Resources That All Candidates Submit To a Background Check Prior To Employment. The Background Check May Consist Of The Following Components Conflict of Interest Review Criminal History Check Education Verification Employment Reference / Records Check License / Certification Verification How To Apply Select “Apply for Job” at the top of this page. If you have questions about applying for jobs, contact the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us. For additional information about the application process, go to http://www.mn.gov/careers. Contact If you have questions about this position, contact Seth Goreham at seth.goreham@state.mn.us or 651-259-5202. If you are an individual with a disability and need reasonable accommodation to assist with the application process, please contact the ADA Coordinator at ADA.DNR@state.mn.us. To receive consideration as a Connect 700 Program applicant, apply online, email the Job ID#, the Working Title and your valid Proof of Eligibility Certificate by the closing date to Chelsie Fisher at chelsie.fisher@state.mn.us Working together to improve the state we love. What do Minnesota's State employees have in common? A sense of purpose in their work Connection with their coworkers and communities Opportunities for personal and professional growth Benefits As an employee, you'll have access to one of the most affordable health insurance plans in Minnesota, along with other benefits to help you and your family be well. Your Benefits May Include Paid vacation and sick leave 12 paid holidays each year Low-cost medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug plans Fertility care, including IVF Diabetes care Dental and orthodontic care for adults and children 6 weeks paid leave for parents of newborn or newly adopted children Pension plan that provides income when you retire (after working at least three years) Employer paid life insurance to provide support for your family in the event of death Short-term and long-term disability insurance that can provide income if you are unable to work due to illness or injury Tax-free expense accounts for health, dental, and dependent care Resources that provide support and promote physical, emotional, social, and financial well-being Support To Help You Reach Your Career Goals Training, classes, and professional development Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (Some positions may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. For more information, visit the Federal Student Aid website at studentaid.gov) Employee Assistance Program (EAP) For Work/life Support A voluntary confidential program that helps employees and their families with life challenges that may impact overall health, personal well-being, or job performance Common sources of stress can be addressed through the EAP: mental health, relationship challenges (personal and work), grief and loss, finances, and legal issues Daily Living/Convenience Services: Chore services, home repair, trip planning, child/elder care Programs, resources and benefits eligibility varies based on type of employment, agency, funding availability, union/collective bargaining agreement, location, and length of service with the State of Minnesota. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYERS Minnesota state agencies are equal opportunity, affirmative action, and veteran-friendly employers. State agencies are committed to creating a workforce that reflects the diversity of the state and strongly encourages persons of color and Indigenous communities, members of the LGBTQIA2S+ community, individuals with disabilities, women, and veterans to apply. The varied experiences and perspectives of employees strengthen the work we do together and our ability to best serve Minnesotans. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and disabilities related to pregnancy or childbirth), gender identity, gender expression, marital status, familial status, age, sexual orientation, status regarding public assistance, disability, veteran status or activity in a local Human Rights Commission or any other characteristic protected by law. Applicants With Disabilities Minnesota state agencies make reasonable accommodations to their employees and applicants with disabilities. If you have a disability and need assistance in searching or applying for jobs with the State of Minnesota, call the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us and let us know the support you need.

What you’ll do

Plan, conduct, analyze, and report research and surveys on forest ungulate ecology, mortality, habitat and predator interactions, and population dynamics. Communicate findings to scientific and public audiences, develop and apply research techniques, support laboratory operations, and coordinate annual aerial surveys.

Requirements

Requires a thesis-based master's degree in wildlife ecology or a related field plus two years of post-graduate wildlife research experience, or a PhD, along with expertise in ungulate ecology, research methods, statistics, and wildlife tracking and handling. Applicants must also have relevant software and data skills, communication and leadership abilities, safe field-equipment operation experience, and an unrestricted Class D driver's license; a PhD and experience with moose, elk, deer, publications, and aerial surveys are preferred.

Benefits

• Paid Vacation And Sick Leave
• 12 Paid Holidays
• Medical Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Prescription Drug Plans
• Fertility Care
• Diabetes Care
• Paid Parental Leave
• Pension Plan
• Employer-Paid Life Insurance
• Short-Term And Long-Term Disability Insurance
• Tax-Free Expense Accounts
• Professional Development
• Employee Assistance Program

Listed skills

• Team Leadership · Preferred

Other relevant skills

Identified from the job description. Confirm important requirements above.

• Wildlife Research
• Ungulate Ecology And Management
• Research Design
• Wildlife Population Monitoring
• Statistical Analysis
• Data Interpretation
• Program R
• ArcPro
• Radiotelemetry And GPS Tracking
• Wildlife Capture And Handling
• Aerial Surveys
• Scientific Writing And Publication
• Database Management
• Research Reporting
• Field Equipment Operation
• Team Leadership

Job areas

• Science & Research
• Environmental & Sustainability
• Government & Public Sector
• Data & Analytics

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