Description
Location: Remote (40)
Full time
Requisition ID: JR912
About Audubon
The National Audubon Society is a leading nonprofit conservation organization with 120 years of science-based, community-driven impact, dedicated to protecting birds and the places they need, today and tomorrow. Birds are powerful indicators of our planet’s health, acting as sentinels that warn us of environmental change and inspire action. Audubon works across the Western Hemisphere, driven by the understanding that what is good for birds is good for the planet. Through a collaborative, bipartisan approach across habitats, borders, and the political spectrum, Audubon drives meaningful and lasting conservation outcomes. With 800 staff and over 1.9 million supporters, Audubon is a dynamic and ever-growing force committed to ensuring a better planet for both birds and people for generations to come. Learn more at www.audubon.org and on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram @audubonsociety.
Position Summary:
The Habitat Technician will play a key role in supporting grassland restoration by harvesting, cleaning, and storing native seeds from local prairie and wetland species. This hands-on position requires attention to detail, the ability to operate and maintain seed-processing equipment, and a commitment to conservation principles. Working both independently and as part of a team, the technician will ensure that high-quality, viable seeds are collected and prepared for future habitat restoration projects, contributing to the long-term sustainability of native plant communities.
This position is one year grant funded, with extension contingent on securing additional funding. The Habitat Technician will work under the direction of the Program Manager, Working Lands, assigned a duty station at a South Dakota USFWS Wetland Management District.
This position is based in Madison, SD.
Compensation:
$23.77 - $27.00 / hour
Essential Functions
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.
Qualifications and Experience:
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.
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.
Experience fostering inclusive and collaborative work environments is valued.
Basic knowledge of GIS software (e.g., ArcGIS) and data entry tools is advantageous.
Familiarity with operating and maintaining seed collection and processing equipment.
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.
National Audubon Society Competencies: This role will also be accountable to apply and develop the following competencies.
Building Relationships: Establish and nurture meaningful connections and trust with others while fostering an environment of inclusivity and respect.
Problem Solving: Find effective solutions to challenges and support decision-making by drawing on critical thinking, creativity, and systematic approaches.
Accountability: Be reliable and trustworthy in fulfilling commitments while recognizing inequities that may impact the ability of others to fulfill responsibilities effectively.
Supporting Change: Adapt to changes and modify behavior in response to new information or unexpected obstacles while considering the diverse needs of others.
Critical Thinking: Take an active approach to analyzing, evaluating, and interpreting information or situations objectively and logically to make informed decisions or judgments.
EEO Statement
We are an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic outlined by federal, state, or local laws. We are committed to providing an inclusive and accessible hiring process for all candidates.
Accessibility Statement
The National Audubon Society endeavors to keep our careers site accessible to any and all users. If you would like to contact us regarding the accessibility of our website or need assistance completing the application process, please contact Accommodations@audubon.org. This contact information is for accommodation requests only and cannot be used to inquire about the status of applications.
The National Audubon Society is a leading nonprofit conservation organization with 120 years of science-based, community-driven impact, dedicated to protecting birds and the places they need, today and tomorrow. Birds are powerful indicators of our planet’s health, acting as sentinels that warn us of environmental change and inspire action. Audubon works across the Western Hemisphere, driven by the understanding that what is good for birds is good for the planet. Through a collaborative, bipartisan approach across habitats, borders, and the political spectrum, Audubon drives meaningful and lasting conservation outcomes. With 800 staff and over 1.9 million supporters, Audubon is a dynamic and ever-growing force committed to ensuring a better planet for both birds and people for generations to come. Learn more at
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