Ecological Technician-Private Lands Specialist

Individual(s) hired will work individually or with a crew conducting habitat restoration tasks such as herbicide application, prescribed fire, brush and tree removal, invasive species removal, stacking and burning brush piles, planting and seeding etc.

NRP conducts a wide variety of projects at various size and complexity scales. Technicians are expected to be flexible and work on a variety of project types as needed. Work can vary seasonally, and may include extended periods of similar duties.

The Private Lands Specialist will be prioritized for work on all Private Lands projects. This may include urban habitat restoration, rain garden installation, pocket prairie restoration, pollinator planting, shoreline restoration, native landscaping etc. The Specialist may interface with private clients and the public frequently. Many Private Lands projects are urban based, and the Specialist may work in the urban setting frequently.

When not assisting with Private Lands projects, individual(s) will work as a general technician for other projects.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

The following duties are normal for this position. These are not to be construed as exclusive or all-inclusive.

• Conduct restoration activities including but not limited to: invasive species removal, herbicide application, brush removal, seeding, planting, prescribed fire, tree felling, urban habitat installation, and erosion control installation.
• Engage with priority Private Lands projects, taking precedent over other specializations such as FIA, RX Fire, or Wildfire.
• Operate basic hand tools and small equipment such as herbicide applicators, small engines, chainsaws, and brushcutters.
• Be able to identify common native and non-native plant species.
• Conduct landscaping activities such as planting, mulching, grading, paving, weeding, watering, etc.
• Follow best management practices according to lead instructions for projects with variable specifications.
• Engage with public and clients in a professional and respectful manner.
• Participate in NRP public outreach activities as needed.
• Operate independently or on solo assignments with minimal supervision.
• Work in inclement weather, year-around, including: temperatures down to -20 windchill and up to 100+ heat indexes, wind, rain, and snow.
• Work on uneven terrain in potentially remote locations, carrying up to 50lbs.
• Maintain a positive, professional attitude in regards to actions, decisions, and adherence to the employee handbook.
• Maintain situational awareness for the safety of oneself and crew.
• Pull trailers, equipment, and implements within state and federal guidelines.
• Operate equipment and implements in a safe and timely manner.
• Maintain flexibility with scheduling changes as necessary.
• Participate and engage in any training necessary to acquire the skills required to succeed in the position.

Additional Tasks and Responsibilities:

• Work independently or with a team under the direction of a Project Manager or Crew Lead.
• Offer creative solutions, and be capable of independent problem solving.
• Maintain working knowledge of project specifications.
• Report any incidents or issues regarding personnel, direct or indirect, and/or equipment immediately to supervisor.
• Travel up to 25%.
• Perform other related duties as required.

Required Skills and Experience:

• Ability to work well with a team and adapt to changing priorities and tasks.
• Ability to traverse wet and/or rugged terrain in diverse, sometimes inclement, weather conditions while carrying up to 50 lbs.
• Ability to work consistently long hours outdoors, sometimes in inclement conditions.
• Ability to consistently have an awareness of safety for oneself and crew.
• Ability to maintain high levels of efficiency without compromising work quality, and overcome inefficiencies through creative problem solving.
• Valid Driver's License, ability to drive a company vehicle, and an acceptable motor vehicle record.
• Ability to manage themselves independently, as well as follow directions.
• A desire to learn skills necessary for success in the position.
• A passion for ecological restoration and natural resource management.
• Ability to obtain all required licenses within specified timelines.

Preferred Skills and Experience:

• Experience operating basic hand tools and smaller equipment such as backpack sprayers, chainsaws, and brushcutters.
• Experience with herbicide handling and application.
• Experience with native and non-native plant identification.
• Experience with landscaping techniques including planting, mulching, edging, paving, etc.
• Experience with customer service and natural resources educational outreach.
• Experience operating large equipment such as ATVs/UTVs, tractors, chippers, and/or skid steers.
• Basic First Aid, CPR, and/or Wilderness First Aid.
• Experience with prescribed fire and/or S130/190 wildfire certifications.
• Experience in map reading, GIS, and/or operating a GPS.
• Basic small engine maintenance and repair.
• Experience driving, backing, and loading trucks and trailers.
• Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental Science, Ecology, Wildlife, Botany, Biology, Forestry or similar field.

Individual(s) hired will be expected to display competency, a strong work ethic, and a passion for ecological restoration.

General work days consist of 8-10 hour days and may include irregular hours to meet project specifications and deadlines.

We conduct resource restoration projects across the state of Minnesota and individual(s) should expect overnight travel up to 25%.

Benefits:

*Most benefits will become available following a 3-month probationary period.

• Health Insurance including vision, dental, and accident
• 401k with matching
• PTO
• Per diem for overnight travel and stay
• Winter clothing stipend
• Yearly training stipend
• Overtime pay past 40 hr/wk

Job Type: Full-time Permanent

• All positions include a 3-month probationary period.
• Seasonal full-time positions and part-time positions will be considered upon request.

Salary: $19.00/hr

• Higher starting wage may be considered for individuals with exceptional qualifications or additional certifications/licenses beyond those required for this position.
• Salary increases within the first 24 months of employment are based on employee reviews as well as NRP’s self-driven Incentive Program.

Required Licenses:

• Pesticide Applicator’s License (Required).
• Hired individuals who do not possess their applicators license will be required to obtain their license on or prior to their first day of employment. Categories required: A, E, F, J

• MN DOT Health card (Required).
• Hired individuals who do not possess their DOT Health card will be required to obtain it on or prior to their first day of employment.

• Driver's License (Required)
• CDL - Class A Combo (Preferred)
• Type 2 Wildland Firefighter Certification - S-130/190 (Preferred)
• Basic First Aid and CPR (Preferred)

Work authorization:

• United States (Required)

Required travel:

• 25% (Up to)

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $19.00 per hour

Expected hours: 35 – 45 per week

Benefits:

• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 10 hour shift
• Overtime

People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply

License/Certification:

• Driver's License (Required)

Willingness to travel:

• 25% (Preferred)

Work Location: In person