Prairie Restoration Specialist

OFFICE LOCATION

Cushing, Minnesota, USA

WHO WE ARE

The mission of The Nature Conservancy (TNC) is to conserve the lands and waters upon which all life depends. As a science-based organization, we develop innovative, on-the-ground solutions to the world’s toughest environmental challenges so that people and nature can thrive. Our work is guided by our values, which include a and respect for people, communities, and cultures. From a rewarding mission to career development and flexible schedules, there are many reasons to love life #insideTNC. Want to know more? Check out our to hear stories from staff or visit .

One of TNC’s primary goals is to cultivate an inclusive work environment so that employees around the globe have a sense of belonging and feel that their unique contributions are valued. We know we’ll only achieve our mission by hiring and engaging a diverse staff that reflects the communities in which we work. Recognizing that people bring talent and skills that have been developed outside the scope of a job, we take a holistic approach to recruitment that considers life experience in addition to the professional requirements listed in our postings. Please apply – we’d love to hear from you. To quote a popular saying at TNC, “you’ll join for the mission, and you’ll stay for the people.”

WHAT WE CAN ACHIEVE TOGETHER

The Prairie Restoration Specialist’s (PRS) primary function is to organize daily logistics, promote crew cohesion, and to ensure a safe and productive work environment. Daily duties will focus on harvesting, processing, storing, and mixing native prairie seed for 100+ acres of prairie restorations. The PRS will coordinate efforts of a three-person crew of interns daily, as well as additional volunteers, staff, and cooperators intermittently.

The PRS will regularly canvass native prairie sites to track phenology and abundance of native plant populations, and to prioritize species and populations for seed harvesting efforts. The PRS may also assist in prescribed burns and maintenance of tools, equipment, and land. Other duties may include invasive species control and vegetation monitoring. The PRS will maintain detailed records using field journals, ArcGIS tools and apps, and other databases.

Job responsibilities are outlined below:

• Supervises no staff, but coordinates a crew of 3 interns and helps plan and direct work groups, including staff, cooperators or volunteers.
• May work in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, on difficult and hazardous terrain, and under physically demanding circumstances. Requires considerable physical exertion and/or muscular strain.
• Requires long hours in isolated settings.
• Makes day to day decisions as delegated by supervisor.
• May work under infrequent or remote supervision.
  

WE'RE LOOKING FOR YOU

Are you looking for a career to help people and nature? Guided by science, TNC creates innovative, on-the-ground solutions to our world’s toughest challenges so that people and nature can thrive together. We’re looking for someone who is passionate, motivated problem-solver.

As the Prairie Restoration Specialist you will work with and lead a crew of 3 Botany and Stewardship Interns, and coordinate with Field Stewards and other stewardship staff to accomplish seed harvest and prairie restoration goals. This position is based out of Wilmar/Paynesville/Glenwood, MN, with the primary work area in the Ordway-Glacial Lakes Landscape, a prairie and savanna complex with strong conservation ownership in west-central Minnesota. The position will span from June 5th to October 25th, 2024 and will require a 40 hours per week. The pay will be $14.00 to $17.00 per hour.

WHAT YOU'LL BRING

• High school diploma or GED and 1 year’s training in science-related field or related experience in land management.
• Experience recognizing plant and animal species.
• Experience operating various types of equipment in a safe and efficient manner (e.g. Lawn mower, chainsaw, UTV, ATV or OHV, two-way radio, or similar equipment).
• Experience working in a team environment.
• Must be able to obtain related licenses or certifications as required. (e.g. First Aid, CPR, herbicide or pesticide application).

In addition, the following DESIRED skills and/or experiences would be an asset for this role but are not required. We recognize that women, visible minorities, Indigenous peoples, and people with disabilities are less likely to apply if they do not match most of the qualifications. The Nature Conservancy finds strength in diversity of backgrounds, lived experiences, knowledge, and identities. We strongly encourage those interested who bring new perspectives to apply, and please view these as areas or skillsets where you will have opportunities for growth and professional development.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's degree in botany, ecology, or other science related field.
• 1-2 years' experience in land management or related field.
• Experience working in grasslands or other terrestrial ecosystems of the upper Midwest or Great Plains.
• Strong field botanical skills and experience conducting field sampling are preferred, but training will be provided for all aspects of the position.
• Experience keeping detailed field journals and data logs.
• Ability to follow instructions from colleagues/coworkers/team members.
• PC and/or mobile device familiarity, including experience with GIS and GPS devices, and databases.
• Prior experience in leadership position(s).
• Qualified at the Fire Fighter Type 2 (FFT2) standard set by the National Wildfire Coordinating Group (NWCG)
• Multi-lingual skills and multi-cultural or cross cultural experiences are appreciated.
  

WHAT WE BRING

Since 1951, The Nature Conservancy has been doing work you can believe in protecting the lands and waters that all life depends on. Through grassroots action, TNC has grown to become one of the most effective and wide-reaching environmental organizations in the world. Thanks to more than 1 million members, over 400 scientists, and the dedicated efforts of our diverse staff, we impact conservation throughout the world!

TNC offers the following benefits for this short-term, temporary position - sick leave, 2 personal days, paid holidays, (and others as mandated by the state i.e. worker's compensation.)

We’re proud to offer a work-environment that is supportive of the health, wellbeing, and flexibility needs of the people we employ!

AUTO SAFETY POLICY

This position requires a valid driver's license and compliance with TNC’s Auto Safety Program.

Employees may not drive Conservancy-owned/leased vehicles, rental cars, or personal vehicles on behalf of the Conservancy if considered "high risk drivers." To learn more about the Auto Safety Program, visit under the FAQ section.

Employment in this position will be contingent upon completion of a Vehicle Use Agreement, which may include a review of the prospective employee's motor vehicle record.

SALARY INFORMATION

The starting pay range for a candidate selected for this position is generally within the range of $14 to $17 per hour. This range only applies to candidates whose country of employment is the USA. Where a successful candidate’s actual pay will fall within this range will be based on a variety of factors, including, for example, the candidate's location, qualifications, specific skills, and experience. Please note countries outside the USA would have a different pay range in the local currency based on the local labor market, and not tied to USA pay or ranges. Your geographic location will be confirmed during the recruitment.