Public Service Professional - Asheville, NC

Public Service Professional - Asheville, NC
Position Summary: The University of Georgia (UGA) is seeking a Private Lands Biologist to support implementation of the Working Lands for Wildlife (WLFW) Aquatics Connectivity Framework in NRCS Area 1, Asheville, NC.

Key Qualifications

Strong aquatic ecology background with ability to apply it in agricultural systems in Western NC; hellbender ecology preferred

Familiarity with USDA NRCS conservation programs, processes, and/or software

Experience conducting biological fieldwork (e.g., aquatic species surveys, riparian/habitat assessments) and supporting aquatic habitat restoration projects

Knowledge of relevant federal and state conservation/wildlife programs (e.g., Farm Bill, Endangered Species Act, State Wildlife Agency private lands programs) and how they’re implemented in working lands

Proficiency with GIS/geospatial tools, Microsoft Office, and field data collection platforms

Strong project management skills (multiple projects, deadlines) and ability to work effectively in office/local NRCS field office schedule

Demonstrated strong written/verbal communication and ability to build and maintain productive landowner relationships

Key Responsibilities
Conservation Planning, Application & Implementation

Work directly with landowners to identify NRCS program opportunities

Guide landowners through application and contracting processes

Develop hellbender‑specific conservation plans aligned with NRCS standards

Coordinate and support implementation of conservation practices

Provide technical guidance during design and construction

Ensure practices are installed according to NRCS standards and specifications

Landowner Outreach & Engagement

Conduct targeted outreach within priority watersheds

Educate landowners on aquatic conservation and WLFW opportunities

Build and maintain relationships with landowners and communities

Participate in outreach events (e.g., farm demos, Shade Your Stream workshops)

Identify high‑priority properties for conservation

Provide initial technical guidance to inform landowner interest and feasibility

Coordination & Partnership Support

Maintain communication with NRCS field offices and partners

Support project identification and pipeline development

Coordinate field visits, outreach events, and collaborative efforts

Monitoring, Evaluation & Adaptive Management

Evaluate effectiveness of conservation practices

Coordinate and/or conduct post‑project monitoring

Recommend adaptive management actions based on outcomes

EEO Statement
The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, veteran status or other protected status.

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