Deer Biologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Introduction
We are dedicated to working with Wisconsinites while preserving and enhancing the natural resources of Wisconsin. In partnership with individuals and organizations; DNR staff manage fish, wildlife, forests, parks, air and water resources while promoting a healthy, sustainable environment and a full range of outdoor opportunities.
The Wisconsin DNR is hiring up to two LTE (Limited Term Employee) CWD (Chronic Wasting Disease) Research Technicians at our CWD Processing Center, in Poynette, WI.
This recruitment may be used to fill future similar vacancies.
To see all opportunities currently available at DNR, follow this link: DNR (wisc.jobs) .
Position Summary
These positions function as part of a 5-member CWD Processing Center team within the Wildlife Health Program. The CWD Processing Center, located within the South-Central Region near the City of Poynette, is a central repository for data processing and sample preparation of biological tissue from wild deer across Wisconsin, for the purpose of CWD testing. During each of the past three years, samples from more than 17,000 deer were processed annually, including necessary data entry, sample packaging and submission, and sample archiving. The selected applicants will carry out the goals/duties of this position under the oversight of the CWD Processing Center Manager. Some travel may be required within Wisconsin, and some evening hours may be required during peak sampling periods.
CWD sampling (50%)
• Follow all CWD processing center protocols, and ensure adherence by others, including set-up/clean-up, equipment maintenance, disinfection, and safety.
• Assist with CWD sampling, deer aging, sample packaging and shipping, data entry, sample archiving, and other tasks as assigned.
• Assist in CWD sampling and deer aging training for field staff and/or volunteers.
• Provide information on CWD/deer hunting to the public.
Data management (45%)
• Assist with CWD data entry, correction, and analysis.
• Train and assist others in CWD data entry.
• Other data management needs as assigned.
Wildlife Health Conservation (5%)
• Participate in other Wildlife Health activities as directed.
• Attend CWD Operations Team meetings and Wildlife Health Section meetings.
Salary Information
These positions pay $18.00 per hour and is in pay schedule and range 06-13. Compensation will be set in accordance with the State Compensation Plan.
Job Details
This is a Limited Term Employment (LTE) position and will not automatically lead to permanent state employment or be entitled to the same benefits as permanent employees.
More about LTE positions:
1) Offer a great opportunity to gain experience and learn about careers at the WI Department of Natural Resources.
2) Provide opportunities for individuals to enhance their resumes with skills learned on the job.
3) May accommodate flexibility for part-time or full-time work hours and seasonal schedules. Work schedules are dependent on business needs.
4) Allow individuals to hold multiple LTE appointments concurrently. If both LTE positions are at the same agency, the positions must be bona fide different positions. Each individual LTE position allows for maximum of 1039 hours in a twelve-month period.
Special Requirements:
1) Residency: To be considered for this position, you must be a resident of the State of Wisconsin.
A Wisconsin resident is a person who:
a. Has established a residence, as defined in s. 6.10(1), in this state not less than 10 days earlier;
b. Has resided in this state for not less than a total of one year out of the immediately preceding 5 years;
c. Is eligible to register to vote in this state; or
d. Is the spouse of a person meeting the requirements of par. (a), (b), or (c)." s.230.03(12), Wis. Stats.
2) Background Checks: The Department of Natural Resources conducts criminal background checks on final applicants prior to a job offer. Please note that a criminal charge or conviction on your record will not necessarily disqualify you from state employment. In compliance with the Wisconsin Fair Employment Act, the DNR does not discriminate on the basis of arrest or conviction record.
3) Eligible to work in U.S.: Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States at the time of hire. The Department of Natural Resources does not sponsor work visas at the time of hire or anytime during employment. All persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and complete the required Employment Eligibility I-9 form upon hire.
Equal Opportunity Employer: The DNR is an equal opportunity employer that promotes and values diversity. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, religion, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability.
Qualifications
Minimally qualified candidates will have the following:
• Ability and willingness to work with and around biological samples
• Demonstrated ability to work successfully both independently and with a team
• Ability to communicate effectively with co-workers and the public
In addition, well qualified candidates will have one or more of the following:
• Knowledge of deer biology and CWD transmission and testing protocols
• Knowledge of WI deer hunting management, policies, and programs
• Experience with facility and/or equipment maintenance
• Experience with data entry and/or database management
How To Apply
Click the "Apply for Job" button and follow the directions. You will be able to save your application as many times as needed and make edits up until the point you submit your application. Once you submit your application, you will not be able to make any updates to the application or any materials submitted.
Please note that the Wiscjobs system will time you out after 30 minutes of activity, so be sure to save your work often to avoid having to re-start the application process.
For any position-related questions, please feel free to contact Jasmine.Batten@wisconsin.gov .
For technical questions and troubleshooting related to the Wisc.Jobs site, please visit Commonly Asked Questions. Keep in mind that technical assistance is only available Monday through Friday 7:45 am - 4:30 pm.
Your resume and letter of qualifications are very important parts of your application and are used during our evaluation process to determine your qualifications as they relate to the job. For instructions on developing your resume and letter of qualifications and what should be included in these materials, click here .
Deadline to Apply
Applications must be received by 11:59pm, Central Time, on August 17 th , 2026 in order to be considered.