On-Site Habitat Technician: Prairie & Crane Conservation

National Audubon Society, Inc.; Gibbon (NE); On-site; USD 25,000 - 34,000; Full time

Job summary

National Audubon Society is seeking a Conservation Program Technician to work onsite at Rowe Sanctuary for a six-month assignment. The role focuses on habitat management techniques across prairies, riparian zones, and river ecosystems, with training in ArcGIS and data entry.

You will gain hands-on experience in prescribed fire operations, seed collection, trail maintenance, and invasive species control, while supporting crane tourism and visitor outreach as needed.

Qualifications

• Applicants with some education in science-related fields and/or experience with land management techniques are preferred.
• Knowledge of - or willingness to learn about - the flora and fauna of the Great Plains region is appreciated.
• Must have a positive, team-focused attitude, and the ability to professionally represent Audubon Great Plains and the network.
• Must be comfortable working independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to follow instructions from colleagues, with little supervision, and at irregular hours.
• Position may require outdoor work in freezing temperatures and hot, humid weather. Occasional evening and weekend hours may be required.
• Must have current valid driver's license to operate Audubon vehicles with the ability to provide for their own transportation.
• Ability to operate - or willingness to learn to use - various types of equipment safely and efficiently (e.g., lawn mower, chain saw, tractor, ATV).
• Commitment to Audubon\'s organizational values of care, collaboration, change, integrity, impact, and innovation.
• Experience fostering inclusive and collaborative work environments is valued.

Responsibilities

• Assist with habitat management duties such as prescribed fire operations, large animal grazing, equipment maintenance, and invasive and woody plant control (including chain-saw use and chemical application).
• Help with visitor center operations, including occasional public outreach and education programs.
• Operate heavy machinery ranging from UTVs, ATVs, zero-turn lawn mowers, tractors, and trucks to conduct various land management activities.
• Work cooperatively with volunteers to conduct necessary habitat work.
• Assist with bird and vegetation surveys through fieldwork and data entry.
• Use ArcGIS & Field Maps to track land management activities and record survey data.
• Assist with building and vehicle maintenance and repair, landscaping, walking trail maintenance, and other duties as assigned.
• Help communicate the importance of habitat work through writing and photography for social media posts, newsletters, etc.
• Maintain and foster a culture of safety.

Skills

ArcGIS

Field Maps

Teamwork

Outdoor work

Education

Science-related education

Tools

Chain saw

Lawn mower

Tractor

ATV

UTV

Job description

National Audubon Society is seeking a Conservation Program Technician to work onsite at Rowe Sanctuary for a six-month assignment. The role focuses on habitat management techniques across prairies, riparian zones, and river ecosystems, with training in ArcGIS and data entry.

You will gain hands-on experience in prescribed fire operations, seed collection, trail maintenance, and invasive species control, while supporting crane tourism and visitor outreach as needed.