Individual Placement - Invasive Species and Prairie Management Specialist Valentine National Wildlife Refuge

Invasive Species And Prairie Management Specialist

The Valentine National Wildlife Refuge(NWR) Invasive Species and Prairie Management Specialist will carry out much needed control of invasive Eastern Red Cedar trees threatening Sandhill Prairie, wetland and marsh habitats, which are critical to migrating and breeding birds, as well as other species of wildlife. Control methods include cutting and digging with hand tools, ATV-mowing equipment and herbicide application. Experience using GIS is a plus.

All positions(depending on qualifications of applicants) may also help with other biological duties as assigned. Technicians and aids should have the ability to work independently and as part of a team, tolerate working outdoors in all conditions (heat, cold, rain, insects, etc.), physical ability to hike while carrying tools, and have a valid driver's license. Training in driving ATV/UTV's will be given and a bunkhouse is available, with shared kitchen and living space.

Positions are expected to last 6 months.

Location:

Valentine, NE

Schedule:

August 31, 2026 - February 27, 2027

Key

Duties and Responsibilities:

Documenting locations and treatments applied to invasive trees using GPS and GIS technology. (60%)

Marginal Duties:
Conducting annual monitoring of rare plants; monitoring effects of the grassland grazing program;
Invasive species control and habitat mapping. (20%);
Other biological surveys and maintenance projects.(20%)

Required Qualifications:

Valid drivers license

This SCA Position is authorized under the Public Land Corps Authority. All participants must be between the ages of 16 and 30, inclusive, or veterans age 35 or younger. Participants must also be a citizen or national of the United States or lawful permanent resident alien of the United States. Hours served can be applied toward the Public Land Corps (PLC) hiring authority.

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience using GIS is a plus.

Hours:

40 per week

Living Accommodations:
Bunkhouse is available, with shared kitchen and living space

Compensation:
Living Allowance: $600/week;
Relocation Allowance, paid once: $1,100

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

Personal Vehicle Information:
Required

Additional Benefits:
Defensive Driving Training;
Off-Road Vehicle Safety;
Ameri Corps:
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.