Big Game Program Coordinator (Wildlife Biologist IV)

Salary: $57,700.00 - $103,900.00 Annually
Location : Lexington County, SC
Job Type: FTE - Full-Time
Job Number: 182414
Agency: Department of Natural Resources
Division: Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries Division
Opening Date: 11/19/2025
Closing Date: 12/5/2025 5:00 PM Eastern
Agency Specific Application Procedures:: All applicants must apply online.
Class Code:: LE80
Position Number:: 60016495
Normal Work Schedule:: Monday - Friday (8:30 - 5:00)
Pay Grade: GEN10
Hiring Range - Min.: $63,718.00
Hiring Range - Max.: $80,800.00
Opening Date: 11/19/2025
EEO Statement: Equal Opportunity Employer
Veteran Preference Statement: South Carolina is making our Veterans a priority for employment in state agencies and institutions.

Job Responsibilities
This employee will serve as the Big Game Program Coordinator within SCDNR's Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries Division (WFF) and will be responsible for the application of biological expertise and administrative leadership in statewide research and management efforts for deer, wild turkey, and black bear.

Job Duties Include:

• Coordinate with Wildlife Section staff related to various survey and monitoring programs, Deer Management Assistance Program (DMAP), Antler Records Program, and disease surveillance.
• Supervise coordination and administration of tagging programs for big game including consistent annual timing of procurement of supplies, execution of applications and renewals leading to the fulfillment of tags.
• Supervise, support and direct up to two (2) wildlife biologists with responsibilities for deer and wild turkey projects.
• Prepare annual budgets and monitor program expenditures.
• Plan, coordinate, and conduct big game research with universities.
• Provide assistance related to big game harvest reporting (SC Game Check) including coordinating with customer service vendor and IT. Oversee annual post-season online hunter surveys to assess harvest reporting compliance, hunter effort, and other aspects of big game hunting.
• Providing support in developing draft regulations/legislation and assisting Law Enforcement and Legal Section with cases involving big game.
• Represent the agency on regional and national committees related to big game.
• Respond to surveys and information requests from other states, the media, and other entities, as well as respond to requests from SCDNR staff and the public on biology, management, hunting regulations, etc. related to big game.
• Collaborate on educational/outreach digital and print media to educate hunters and the public about big game laws, regulations, biology and management.
• Maintain all issued vehicles and equipment.

Minimum and Additional Requirements

A master's degree in biology, chemistry or wildlife management and four (4) years of experience in fish, wildlife or marine management or research programs; or a bachelor's degree in biology, chemistry, wildlife management or related technical area and six (6) years of experience in fish wildlife or marine management or research programs.

Preferred Qualifications

Additional consideration may be given to factors such as education and big game management/research experience beyond the minimum. Knowledge of the principles and techniques of wildlife management, research, and survey with an emphasis on biology, ecology, and management of deer, wild turkey, and black bear. Proficiency with a variety of computer software applications including MS Office suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), statistical analysis software and GIS programs. Familiarity with wildlife survey, capture/trapping, GPS/telemetry. Ability to work efficiently and effectively with others as well as independently and be able to prioritize a heavy and varied workload. Effective organizational skills, written and verbal communication skills, and a strong public speaking ability. TWS Certified Wildlife Biologist of meets minimum qualifications to become certified. Ability to participate in overnight travel.
Benefits for State Employees
The state of South Carolina offers eligible employees generous benefits, including health and dental insurance; retirement and savings plan options; and paid vacation and sick leave. Plus, work-life balance programs such as telecommuting and flexible work schedules are available to employees of some state agencies.

Insurance Benefits
Eligible employees may enroll in health insurance, which includes prescription coverage and wellness benefits. Other available insurance benefits include dental, vision, term life insurance, long term disability and flexible spending accounts for health and child care expenses.

Retirement Benefits
State employees are also offered retirement plan options, including defined benefit and defined contribution plans. Additionally, eligible employees may elect to participate in the South Carolina Deferred Compensation Program, which is a voluntary, supplemental retirement savings plan offering 401(k) and 457 plan options.

Workplace Benefits
State employees may also be eligible for other benefits, including tuition assistance; holiday, annual and sick leave; and discounts on purchases, travel and more.

Note: The benefits above are available to most state employees, with the exception of those in temporary positions. Employees in temporary grant and time-limited positions may be eligible for all, some or none of these benefits as benefits are associated with each position type. For these positions, contact the hiring agency to determine what benefits may be available.
01

Are you currently employed with SCDNR?

• Yes
• No

02

Do you have AT LEAST a master's degree in biology, chemistry or wildlife management AND four (4) years of experience in fish, wildlife or marine management or research programs OR a bachelor's degree in biology, chemistry, wildlife management or related technical area AND six (6) years of experience in fish wildlife or marine management or research programs?

• Yes
• No

Required Question