Habitat Technician

Location: Audubon South Dakota - Remote Full time Requisition : JR1235

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 ubon.org and on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram @audubonsociety.

The Habitat Technician supports Audubon's grassland and wetland conservation work in South Dakota through hands-on habitat restoration, native seed collection and processing, invasive species management, field surveys, and related stewardship activities. Working under the direction of the Working Lands Program Manager and in collaboration with Audubon staff, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and other partners, this position helps restore and sustain native plant communities that benefit birds, wildlife, and people.

The role requires strong attention to detail, safe operation and maintenance of field and seed-processing equipment, comfort working outdoors in varied conditions, and a commitment to high-quality conservation outcomes.

This position is grant-funded through September 30, 2028, with continuation contingent upon securing additional funding.

The position will be assigned to a South Dakota U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Wetland Management District, with a duty station at the Sand Lake National Wildlife Refuge office in Columbia, South Dakota.

$23.77 - $27.00 / hour

• Identify native prairie plants and invasive species, and control invasive species through mechanical, chemical, biological, and cultural means.
• Collect seeds from native prairie plants to support habitat restoration projects aimed at conserving bird populations and ecosystems.
• Operate and maintain seed harvesting equipment efficiently and safely.
• Assist in prairie restoration projects, including planting seeds and monitoring sites to ensure the establishment of desired species.
• Complete habitat and wildlife surveys, including four-square-mile waterfowl surveys.
• Complete habitat management activities, such as mowing, prescribed fire, managed grazing, and invasive species control.
• Record detailed management data to track management outcomes for priority habitats and birds.
• Assist with USFWS easement evaluations and compliance checks.
• No enforcement work will be required of this position.
• Work closely with Audubon staff, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and partners.
• Conduct fieldwork in diverse weather conditions, adhering to Audubon's safety protocols.
• 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.
• Maintain and foster a culture of safety.

• A bachelor's degree in biology, botany, ecology, environmental science, or a related field is preferred.
• Equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered.
• Coursew…