Job Description

The Botany and Stewardship Technicians will assist with land stewardship, ecological restoration, and habitat monitoring work throughout the Prairie-Forest Border Ecoregion of Central and Southeastern Minnesota, on lands owned by The Nature Conservancy, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and MN Department of Natural Resources. This position is an ideal opportunity for an aspiring field botanist with a desire to gain experience in a variety of land management practices. A strong interest in developing botany or plant ecology skills is essential, as well as a desire to apply GIS skills in a conservation setting. This is an excellent opportunity for motivated, hard-working individuals who are eager to learn new skills and explore the unique beauty and biodiversity of Minnesota’s prairie landscape. Participants will engage in stewardship and ecological restoration work alongside a variety of conservation partners, allowing for networking and skill building opportunities.

Location

Cushing, MN

Schedule

June 1, 2026 - November 20, 2026

Key Duties and Responsibilities

Native prairie seed collection and processing;

Native and invasive plant identification;

Seed collection data input and management;

Monitoring vegetation and pollinator species;

GIS data collection.

Marginal Duties

Prescribed fire (weather permitting);

Invasive species control;

Tree/brush removal;

Herbicide application;

Use/maintenance of equipment such as chainsaws, brush cutters, hand tools, etc.

Required Qualifications

• Motivation to develop strong plant identification skills.

• Knowledgeable in the use of GPS, orienteering/map reading, and basic use of GIS applications for data collection.

• Ability to learn to operate and maintain various types of equipment in a safe and efficient manner (e.g. ATV, pumps, engines, backpack sprayer, chainsaw, brush-cutter, leaf blower, & two-way radio).

• Experience working with or knowledge of natural systems.

• Ability to work outdoors in remote rough terrain, variable weather, and under physically demanding circumstances while maintaining a positive and productive work ethic.

• Ability to follow detailed instructions and work independently or with minimal supervision.

• Ability to work and live in a shared crew environment and maintain a positive and cooperative attitude.

• Valid Driver's license and good driving record.

• High school diploma and 1 year training in science-related field or related experience in land management.

Preferred Qualifications

• NWCG Fire Training to FFT2 Qualification (training provided)

• Botany and plant identification skills and experience.

• Experience operating all-terrain vehicles and mid-sized pick-up trucks.

• Experience loading, pulling, and backing trailers.

• Experience with small engines and pumps (2-stroke and 4-stroke).

Hours

40 per week

Living Accommodations

Members will live in TNC-provided housing, free of charge. The crew house is located in Willmar, MN, and includes 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, laundry in the basement, and a full kitchen with all basic kitchen utensils included. Amenities like grocery, gas, shopping, and restaurants are all nearby, many of which are within walking or biking distance. Occasionally, overnight stays at different crew housing facilities around the state may occur, and sharing of bedrooms may be necessary for brief periods of time.

Compensation

• $457/week Living Allowance

• $1,100 To/From Travel Allowance, paid one with first paycheck

• $275 reimbursable fire boot allowance (for purchase of fire boots)

• Free Housing - Shared crew house environment

• Health Insurance (if needed)

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

Personal Vehicle Information

Recommended

Additional Benefits

Off-Road Vehicle Safety

AmeriCorps: Not Eligible

Equal Opportunity Statement

The Student Conservation Association, Inc., is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The SCA strives to cultivate a work environment that encourages fairness, teamwork, and respect among all staff members and is committed to maintaining a work atmosphere where lifestyles may grow personally and professionally.