Overview

Individual(s) hired will work alongside a crew conducting prairie and forest restoration tasks such as forest inventory and stand surveying.

Between inventory projects, individual(s) may assist with restoration activities such as prescribed fire, brush removal, invasive species identification and removal, etc.

Individual(s) will be expected to travel overnight and over weekends for up to 7 days in a row, with 7 day breaks in between.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

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

• Perform forest inventory sampling according to contract specifications for project sites across the state of Minnesota and out-of-state.
• Take accurate, detailed measurements and records of vegetation data and site specifications.
• Be able to identify common native and non-native plant species of the Midwest.
• Utilize various surveying tools and equipment, and maintain equipment inventory.
• Operate and maintain various OHV such as UTV, ATV, Argo, and snowmobiles.
• Conduct restoration activities including but not limited to: invasive species removal, vegetation management, prairie maintenance, seeding, planting, prescribed fire, tree felling, and erosion control installation.
• Maintain a positive, professional attitude in regards to actions, decisions, and adherence to the employee handbook.
• Conduct and 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.
• Operate basic hand tools and smaller equipment such as backpack sprayers, augers, chainsaws, and brushcutters.
• Follow best management practices according to technical specifications within contracts.
• Work in inclement weather, including year around weather conditions, and work in uneven terrain in potentially remote locations.
• Participate and engage in any training necessary to acquire the skills required to conduct the duties and responsibilities listed here.

ADDITIONAL TASK AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Report any known/observed vehicle and equipment maintenance to lead or supervisor.
• Work independently or with a team under the direction of a supervisor or lead.
• Offer creative solutions or options, 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.
• Maintain flexibility with scheduling changes as necessary.
• Travel up to 100%.
• Perform other related duties as required.

REQUIRED JOB SKILLS

• Experience with native and non-native plant identification.
• Experience using common forestry equipment such as DBH tape, clinometer, rangefinder, increment borer, plant ID guides, ect.
• Experience in map reading, GIS, and/or operating a GPS.
• Ability to work well with a team and adapt to changing priorities and tasks as well as independently solve problems.
• Ability to traverse wet and/or rugged terrain in diverse, sometimes inclement, weather conditions while carrying up to 50 lbs.
• Valid Driver’s License with the ability to drive a company vehicle and an acceptable motor vehicle record.
• Ability to manage themselves in independent tasks 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.
• Ability to travel overnight and over weekends for 7 days on, with 7 days off in-between.

PREFERRED JOB SKILLS

• Bachelor’s of Sciences Degree in either Environmental Science, Ecology, Wildlife, Botany, Biology, Forestry or similar field.
• Previous FIA certification or experience is highly preferred.
• Experience operating and performing maintenance on large equipment such as ATVs/UTVs, Argos, snowmobiles, tractors, chippers, and/or skid steers.
• Experience operating basic hand tools and smaller equipment such as backpack sprayers, augers, chainsaws, and/or brushcutters.
• Ability to consistently have an awareness of safety for themselves and our crew.
• Basic First Aid, CPR, and/or have basic prescribed fire training.
• Experience with herbicide handling, application, and application equipment.
• Individual(s) may be required to obtain Commercial Pesticide Applicator’s Certifications in Categories A, F, and J within 3 months.
• Basic small engine maintenance and repair.