Prairie Habitat Technician: Field Restoration & Seed

Audubon; Rapid City (SD); Hybrid; USD 33,000 - 37,000; Full time

Job summary

The Habitat Technician at Audubon supports grassland and wetland conservation work in South Dakota through hands-on habitat restoration, seed collection, and invasive species management. The role works with Audubon staff, USFWS, and partners to sustain native plant communities that benefit birds and wildlife.

The position requires outdoor work in varied conditions, attention to safety, and the ability to collect and process seeds while maintaining detailed records.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in biology, botany, ecology, environmental science, or related field preferred.
• Coursework/field experience in plant science, restoration ecology, or conservation biology helpful.
• Proficiency identifying native and invasive plants using field guides.
• Familiarity with prairie ecosystems and flora.
• Experience with GPS for navigation and data collection.
• Knowledge of GIS software (e.g., ArcGIS) is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Identify native prairie plants and invasive species; control invasives by multiple methods.
• Collect seeds from native prairie plants to support restoration projects.
• Assist in prairie restoration, including seeding and site monitoring.
• Complete habitat and wildlife surveys, including waterfowl surveys.
• Perform habitat management activities: mowing, prescribed fire, grazing, invasive species control.
• Collaborate with Audubon staff and partners; ensure safety and data quality.

Skills

Habitat restoration

Seed collection

Field surveys

Communications

GPS navigation

Data entry

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in biology or related field

Tools

GPS devices

ArcGIS

Seed processing equipment

Job description

The Habitat Technician at Audubon supports grassland and wetland conservation work in South Dakota through hands-on habitat restoration, seed collection, and invasive species management. The role works with Audubon staff, USFWS, and partners to sustain native plant communities that benefit birds and wildlife.

The position requires outdoor work in varied conditions, attention to safety, and the ability to collect and process seeds while maintaining detailed records.