Habitat Technician

National Audubon Society; South Dakota; On-site; USD 49,000 - 56,000; Full time

Job summary

National Audubon Society is seeking a Habitat Technician to support grassland and wetland conservation in South Dakota. The role involves hands-on habitat restoration, native seed collection, invasive species management, and field surveys, working with partners including USFWS.

It requires attention to detail, outdoor work, and commitment to high-quality conservation outcomes. The position is grant-funded through September 30, 2028, with continuation dependent on funding.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in biology, botany, ecology, environmental science, or a related field preferred.
• Field experience in plant science, restoration ecology, or conservation biology is beneficial.
• Experience in identifying native and invasive plant species using field guides.

Responsibilities

• Identify native prairie plants and invasive species, and control invasive species through mechanical, chemical, biological, and cultural means.
• Collect seeds from native prairie plants to support habitat restoration projects; operate and maintain seed harvesting equipment.
• Assist in prairie restoration projects, including planting seeds and monitoring sites for establishment of desired species.
• Complete habitat and wildlife surveys, including four-square-mile waterfowl surveys.
• Complete habitat management activities, such as mowing, prescribed fire, managed grazing, and invasive species control; record data for priority habitats and birds.
• Assist with USFWS easement evaluations; no enforcement work required.
• Work closely with Audubon staff, USFWS, and partners.
• Conduct fieldwork in varied weather, following safety protocols.
• Educate volunteers and the public about native prairie ecosystems and their role in Audubon’s mission.
• Support a culture of philanthropy and public funding efforts.
• Collaborate with colleagues across the Americas on shared priorities.
• Maintain and foster a culture of safety.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Physical endurance

Communication

Team collaboration

Willingness to travel

Education

Bachelor’s degree in biology, botany, ecology, or environmental science

Tools

GPS devices

ArcGIS

Data entry tools

Job description

About Audubon

The National Audubon Society is a leading nonprofit conservation organization with 120 years of science-based, community-driven impact, dedicated to protecting birds and the places they need, today and tomorrow. Birds are powerful indicators of our planet’s health, acting as sentinels that warn us of environmental change and inspire action. Audubon works across the Western Hemisphere, driven by the understanding that what is good for birds is good for the planet. Through a collaborative, bipartisan approach across habitats, borders, and the political spectrum, Audubon drives meaningful and lasting conservation outcomes. With 800 staff and over 1.9 million supporters, Audubon is a dynamic and ever-growing force committed to ensuring a better planet for both birds and people for generations to come. Learn more at www.audubon.org and on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram @audubonsociety.

Position Summary

The Habitat Technician supports Audubon's grassland and wetland conservation work in South Dakota through hands-on habitat restoration, native seed collection and processing, invasive species management, field surveys, and related stewardship activities. Working under the direction of the Working Lands Program Manager and in collaboration with Audubon staff, the US Fish and Wildlife Service, and other partners, this position helps restore and sustain native plant communities that benefit birds, wildlife, and people. The role requires strong attention to detail, safe operation and maintenance of field and seed-processing equipment, comfort working outdoors in varied conditions, and a commitment to high-quality conservation outcomes. This position is grant-funded through September 30, 2028, with continuation contingent upon securing additional funding. The position will be assigned to a South Dakota US Fish and Wildlife Service Wetland Management District, with a duty station at the Sand Lake National Wildlife Refuge office in Columbia, South Dakota.

Compensation

$23.77 - $27.00 / hour

Additional Job Description

Essential Functions

• Identify native prairie plants and invasive species, and control invasive species through mechanical, chemical, biological, and cultural means.
• Collect seeds from native prairie plants to support habitat restoration projects aimed at conserving bird populations and ecosystems. Operate and maintain seed harvesting equipment efficiently and safely.
• Assist in prairie restoration projects, including planting seeds and monitoring sites to ensure the establishment of desired species.
• Complete habitat and wildlife surveys, including four-square-mile waterfowl surveys.
• Complete habitat management activities, such as mowing, prescribed fire, managed grazing, and invasive species control. Record detailed management data to track management outcomes for priority habitats and birds.
• Assist with USFWS easement evaluations and compliance checks. No enforcement work will be required of this position.
• Work closely with Audubon staff, US Fish and Wildlife Service, and partners.
• Conduct fieldwork in diverse weather conditions, adhering to Audubon's safety protocols.
• Educate volunteers and the public about the importance of native prairie ecosystems and their role in supporting bird species, in line with Audubon's mission.
• Support a culture of philanthropy, including public funding efforts.
• Collaborate with colleagues across the Americas including through joint planning and execution of shared priorities.
• Maintain and foster a culture of safety.

Qualifications And Experience

• A bachelor's degree in biology, botany, ecology, environmental science, or a related field is preferred. Equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered.
• Coursework or field experience in plant science, restoration ecology, or conservation biology is highly beneficial.
• Proficiency in identifying native and invasive plant species, using taxonomic keys or field guides.
• Familiarity with prairie ecosystems and their flora.
• Previous experience in fieldwork, especially in seed collection, habitat restoration, or ecological surveys.
• Experience using GPS devices for navigation and data collection.
• Commitment to Audubon's organizational values of care, collaboration, change, integrity, impact, and innovation.
• Experience fostering inclusive and collaborative work environments is valued.
• Basic knowledge of GIS software (e.g., ArcGIS) and data entry tools is advantageous.
• Familiarity with operating and maintaining seed collection and processing equipment.
• Ability to safely handle tools and machinery used in restoration projects.
• Strong interpersonal skills to collaborate with team members, volunteers, and partners.
• Clear communication abilities for reporting and outreach activities.
• Ability to work in various weather conditions and perform physically demanding tasks, and lift up to 60 lbs. with or without accommodation
• A valid driver's license and the ability to travel to remote field sites.

National Audubon Society Competencies

Building Relationships: Establish and nurture meaningful connections and trust with others while fostering an environment of inclusivity and respect.

Problem Solving: Find effective solutions to challenges and support decision-making by drawing on critical thinking, creativity, and systematic approaches.

Accountability: Be reliable and trustworthy in fulfilling commitments while recognizing inequities that may impact the ability of others to fulfill responsibilities effectively.

Supporting Change: Adapt to changes and modify behavior in response to new information or unexpected obstacles while considering the diverse needs of others.

Critical Thinking: Take an active approach to analyzing, evaluating, and interpreting information or situations objectively and logically to make informed decisions or judgments.

EEO Statement

We are an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic outlined by federal, state, or local laws. We are committed to providing an inclusive and accessible hiring process for all candidates.

Accessibility Statement

The National Audubon Society endeavors to keep our careers site accessible to any and all users. If you would like to contact us regarding the accessibility of our website or need assistance completing the application process, please contact [e-mail]. This contact information is for accommodation requests only and cannot be used to inquire about the status of applications.