Forest Monitoring Technician

Position Details

• This job posting will be open until filled and will hire one individual.
• This is a full-time (40 hours/week) short-term position and is anticipated to start May 11, 2026 and end on August 7, 2026 (may be flexibility in start and end dates.)
• This position is based out of the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe Division of Resource Management office in Cass Lake, MN.
• Housing is not provided. Employee must secure own local housing.
• Hourly rate range: $/hour dependent on experience.

As our Forest Monitoring Technician (FMT) you will assist in measuring forest vegetation and site conditions in North – Central Minnesota, primarily within the Chippewa National Forest and Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe Landscape. You will focus on collecting baseline forest vegetation data as well as pre-treatment data on sites to be managed using a variety of silvicultural techniques. You will work with other Conservancy staff as well as work closely with Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe Division of Resource Management staff members.

• Setting up plots within designated stands for monitoring changes in vegetation and site conditions pre/post treatment.
• Entering and managing forest survey data using ArcGIS Pro, ArcGIS Online, and other GIS web applications.
• Coordinating GIS-based survey data collection with TNC Staff and other conservation partners, including the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe.
• Providing GIS-based data processing and analysis.
• Compiling data, resolving data disparities, and conducting analyses to support assessment and planning.
• Working with a small group of staff, interns or volunteers on a project basis, including students from Leech Lake Tribal College.
• Working in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, in hazardous terrain and under physically demanding circumstances.

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. Come join TNC and apply today!

• Associates Degree in natural resources; environmental studies or equivalent combination of education and 6 months’ experience.
• Experience managing and prioritizing tasks from multiple sources.

• Multi-language skills and multi-cultural or cross-cultural experience appreciated.
• Field experience.
• Ability to assist with program budget development and monitoring.
• Ability to work independently and exercise independent judgment.
• Basic supervisory skills.
• Time management skills.

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 the Auto Safety information page 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.

The starting pay range for a candidate selected for this position is generally within the range of $/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.

The Nature Conservancy is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Our commitment to equal employment opportunity includes the recognition that our conservation mission is best advanced by the leadership and contributions of people of all backgrounds, beliefs, and culture. Recruiting and mentoring staff to create an inclusive organization is a priority, and we encourage applicants from all cultures, races, colors, religions, sexes, national or regional origins, ages, disability status, sexual orientation, gender identity, military, protected veteran status or other status protected by law.

The successful applicant must meet the requirements of The Nature Conservancy's background screening process.

TNC is committed to offering accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans in our job application process. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, please send a note to applyhelp with Request for Accommodation in the subject line.