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National Audubon Society · 2 hours ago

Habitat Technician

South Dakota, United States

Full-time

Onsite

New Grad, Entry Level

$23.77/hr - $27/hr

The National Audubon Society is a leading nonprofit conservation organization dedicated to protecting birds and their habitats. The Habitat Technician will support grassland restoration by harvesting and processing native seeds, ensuring high-quality seeds are prepared for future restoration projects.

EducationNon ProfitPublishingWildlife Conservation

Responsibilities

Collect seeds from native prairie plants to support Audubon’s habitat restoration projects aimed at conserving bird populations and ecosystems

Ensure proper seed processing and storage to maintain viability for restoration efforts

Identify native prairie plants and invasive species. Scout for seed sources on lands owned by US Fish and Wildlife Service and Partners

Operate and maintain seed harvesting equipment efficiently and safely

Record detailed data on seed collection activities, including species, date, location, and quantity

Work closely with Audubon staff, US Fish and Wildlife Service, and partners to coordinate seed collection efforts

Communicate findings and progress to support Audubon’s advocacy and educational outreach

Conduct fieldwork in diverse weather conditions, adhering to Audubon’s safety protocols

Assist in prairie restoration projects, including planting seeds and monitoring sites to ensure the establishment of habitats beneficial to bird populations

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

Maintains and fosters culture of safety

Qualification

Seed collectionPlant identificationFieldwork experienceGPS navigationGIS softwareCommunication skillsInterpersonal skillsTeam collaboration

Required

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

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 will be needed to drive to remote field sites, plus potentially between offices. Ability to drive passenger vehicles including pickup trucks and potentially towing trailers

Preferred

A bachelor's degree in biology, botany, ecology, environmental science, or a related field is preferred

Coursework or field experience in plant science, restoration ecology, or conservation biology is highly beneficial

Basic knowledge of GIS software (e.g., ArcGIS) and data entry tools is advantageous

Experience fostering inclusive and collaborative work environments is valued

Company

National Audubon Society

Glassdoor3.2

The National Audubon Society protects birds and the places they need, today and tomorrow, throughout the Americas using science, advocacy, education, and on-the-ground conservation.

Founded in 1905