Lead Installation Technician

Natural Shore Technologies, Inc.; Independence (MN); On-site; USD 42,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a dedicated team at a leading ecological restoration firm, where your passion for native plants can thrive. As a Lead Installation Technician, you'll work closely with experts to install and maintain diverse habitats, ensuring ecological integrity and biodiversity. This role offers hands-on experience in plant identification, leadership opportunities, and the chance to contribute to meaningful projects that protect Minnesota's natural areas. With a supportive environment and a focus on professional growth, this position is perfect for those eager to make a tangible impact in ecological restoration.

Benefits

Health Insurance

Paid Vacation

Sick Leave

401(k) with Company Match

Skill Development Opportunities

In-house Training Programs

Team Outings

Qualifications

• Experience in natural resources fieldwork and outdoor physically demanding work.
• Ability to perform strenuous tasks, including lifting up to 50 lbs.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor seasonal work crews for ecological restoration projects.
• Manage invasive species and support native plant communities.

Skills

Plant Identification

Leadership Skills

Communication Skills

Organizational Skills

Knowledge of Herbicide Application

Education

Valid Minnesota Driver's License

Tools

Brush Saws

Chainsaws

Sprayers

Tractors

ATVs

Job description

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Natural Shore Technologies, Inc. provided pay range

This range is provided by Natural Shore Technologies, Inc.. Your actual pay will be based on your skills and experience — talk with your recruiter to learn more.

Base pay range

$42,000.00/yr - $50,000.00/yr

Additional compensation types

Annual Bonus

Are you passionate about restoring and protecting Minnesota’s natural areas? Do you thrive in a role where your expertise in plant identification and native ecosystems can make a tangible impact? Natural Shore Technologies, a leader in ecological restoration for over 20 years, invites you to join our dedicated team as Lead Installation Technician.

At Natural Shore Technologies, our mission is to deliver exceptional native plant restorations using innovative techniques and environmentally sound land management practices. We specialize in designing, installing, and maintaining habitats such as shorelines, prairies, rain gardens, and woodlands for various clients. Our on-site nursery provides high-quality Minnesota native plants, reflecting our commitment to ecological integrity and biodiversity.

Key Responsibilities: As an Installation Lead Technician, you will:

1. Work alongside the Restoration Ecologist/Project Manager to successfully install ecological restoration projects.
2. Lead and mentor seasonal work crews, fostering knowledge and professional growth.
3. Ensure the installation crew has all necessary tools and equipment for each day’s work.
4. Use plant identification skills to manage invasive species and support native plant communities.
5. Assess project sites to develop and implement vegetation management strategies.
6. Operate equipment such as brush saws, chainsaws, sprayers, tractors, and ATVs.
7. Communicate professionally with clients and stakeholders, representing the company effectively.
8. Manage project data and maintain tools and equipment properly.

Additional Opportunities: Beyond fieldwork, this role offers opportunities to:

• Represent Natural Shore at trade shows and professional forums.
• Contribute to educational content like newsletters and social media, showcasing your expertise.
• Deliver presentations on ecological restoration techniques.
• Support nursery operations, including transplanting and organizing native plants.
• Assist Maintenance Crew Leaders in ecosystem monitoring and maintenance.

What We’re Looking For: We seek motivated, dependable individuals passionate about native plants and ecological restoration, with:

• Experience in natural resources fieldwork, plant identification, and outdoor physically demanding work.
• Ability to perform strenuous tasks, including lifting up to 50 lbs, in extreme weather.
• Leadership skills to supervise and inspire field crews.
• A valid Minnesota Driver’s License, with experience hauling trailers and operating machinery.
• Knowledge of herbicide application; ability to obtain a Commercial Pesticide Applicator license within 30 days.
• Strong communication and organizational skills.

Why Work With Us? Natural Shore Technologies offers a supportive environment with:

• Skill development in plant identification and ecological restoration.
• Mentorship from experienced professionals.
• Opportunities for professional growth and participation in advanced training.
• A collaborative work culture with team outings.
• In-house plant identification training programs.

Compensation & Benefits: We provide a comprehensive package including:

• Starting salary of $42,000 - $50,000, based on experience.
• End-of-year bonus of 1–5% based on performance.
• Health insurance with 50% premiums covered.
• Paid vacation and sick leave.
• 401(k) with 4% company match.
• Seasonal work schedule, 40–50 hours/week during the growing season.

If you’re passionate about native ecosystems and restoration work, please send your resume and cover letter to: [e-mail]. We look forward to hearing from you and exploring your journey in ecological restoration.