Ecological Restoration Technician (PO-00735758)

The Restoration Technician Intern will assist with a portfolio of prairie and oak savanna restoration projects designed to improve monarch and other critical pollinating insect habitat in West Central Minnesota.

Primary duties for this position include tree removal, prescribed fire implementation, insect and vegetation monitoring, native plant seed collection, and installation of grazing infrastructure. The position will entail training for and use of a variety of types of equipment including chainsaws, tractors, skidsteers, and Rx fire equipment. In depth training on ecological monitoring protocols and botanical ID and seed harvest will also be provided. A vehicle will be provided for work travel. The intern will live with other seasonal staff during a portion of the position, and also alone for a couple months of the year after seasonal staff positions end. Housing will be provided a crew houses in Central MN with the primary housing location in Wilmar, MN.

This position is a unique opportunity to work on a diverse array of restoration projects that range from returning grazing management to large scale prairie preserves to intensive restoration of globally rare ecosystems in the form of oak savannas. The intern will work closely with and be mentored by full time TNC conservation field staff. There will be ample opportunity for this intern to develop a highly marketable set of skills for a career in applied conservation and restoration, as well as build leadership skills for their next career step.

Compensation:
$396/week* Living Allowance*
$1,100* To/From Travel Allowance, paid one with first paycheck
$100 reimbursable fire boot allowance (for purchase of fire boots)
Free Housing – Shared crewhouse environment
Health Insurance 
– Eligible for AmeriCorps Education Award of $6,895, received upon successful completion of position

*All allowances subject to applicable federal, state, and local taxes.

This position is an AmeriCorps program and acceptance of AmeriCorps membership is required.
 

Position ID: PO-00735758

Expected Dates: October 16, 2023 - October 13, 2024

Location:
7163 Bear Rd
Cushing, MN 56443
US

Training Provided: Plant Identification workshops. NWCG Fire Training. Herbicide safety. ATV/UTV safety. Chainsaw and brush cutter safety. Water pumps. Equipment operation. GPS receivers. GIS. Wildlife habitat management

Educational/Recreational Opportunities: Learn land management and plant ID skills Network with Conservation professionals Learn business of conservation Botany/Ecology/Natural History Fire Ecology Natural Resources Conservation. Canoeing/Kayaking Fishing Biking/Hiking Volleyball Swimming

Handicap Accessible?: No

Main Area of Focus: Natural Resources Mgmt

Further Details

AmeriCorps Eligible: Eligible

Driving Logistics: Recommended

Housing or Stipend Provided?
A. Partner will provide suitable housing for the member

Housing will consist of a shared crewhouse with 3-4 bedrooms, 1-2 bathrooms, and a shared kitchen.
 

Indoor/Outdoor: Outside

US Citizenship: No

Student Conservation Association