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Botanist (Ecological Program Specialist) - Ecological Services Section

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Phila, PA, United States


Overview
If you have a deep‑seeded love for our local forests and a desire to make a meaningful impact, consider joining the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR). We are seeking a committed Ecological Program Specialist to take on the role of Botanist, focusing on the management and stewardship of threatened and endangered plant species and unique plant communities on Pennsylvania State Forest lands. This position will also manage the PA Vulnerable Plant Program, coordinate the Bureau of Forestry’s native planting and seeding efforts, review potential impacts to state‑listed plant species, and aid the Bureau of Forestry in its mission to conserve, steward, and enhance Pennsylvania’s trees, forests, and native wild plants.

Responsibilities

Lead conservation of state‑listed plant species, steward native plant populations, and enhance native plant communities on state forest lands.

Manage the Pennsylvania Vulnerable Plant Program, including evaluating commercial licenses and managing the database of reported collections.

Coordinate statewide native planting and seeding programs and support Wild Plant Sanctuaries and High Conservation Value Areas.

Conduct botanical inventory and monitoring of unique resources or species.

Coordinate active management projects and write/revise site management plans.

Provide technical guidance and outreach statewide on plant ecology, adaptive forest management, and related ecological topics to state land managers, foresters, planners, policy makers, and private landowners.

Work Schedule and Additional Information

Full‑time employment.

Work hours are 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday–Friday, with a 60‑minute lunch.

This position requires travel to field and district sites.

Telework: You may work from home part‑time, up to five days per two‑week pay period, with a secured high‑speed internet connection and an approved location inside Pennsylvania.

Salary: The starting salary may be non‑negotiable in some cases.

Qualifications

One year of experience as a Wildlife Biologist 2 or Natural Resource Program Specialist 1 (or equivalent federal titles).

Three years as a Forester (or equivalent federal title).

Three years of professional experience managing plant, wildlife, or natural resources and a bachelor’s degree in biology, botany, ecology, environmental science, forestry, natural resources management, or a closely related field.

Any equivalent combination of experience and training.

Other Requirements

Must qualify for a PA Pesticide Applicator License upon hire.

Must meet Pennsylvania residency requirements.

Must be able to perform essential job functions.

The Commonwealth is an equal employment opportunity employer and is committed to a diverse workforce. The Commonwealth values inclusion as we seek to recruit, develop, and retain the most qualified people to serve the citizens of Pennsylvania. The Commonwealth does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religious creed, ancestry, union membership, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, AIDS or HIV status, disability, or any other categories protected by applicable federal or state law. All diverse candidates are encouraged to apply. Pennsylvania law provides employment preference for qualified veterans.

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