Habitat Technician

Audubon

. Identify native prairie plants and invasive species, and control invasive species through mechanical, chemical, biological, and cultural means .

Posted 10/14/2026full-timeColumbia • South Dakota • United StatesMid-LevelSenior💰 $24 - $27 per hourWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates expertise in identifying native and invasive prairie plants, conducting habitat restoration, and performing ecological surveys. Proficient in using GPS and GIS tools for data collection and navigation while fostering collaboration and safety in diverse fieldwork environments.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Native Plant IdentificationInvasive Species ControlHabitat RestorationFieldwork ExperienceGPS Navigation

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Plant ScienceRestoration EcologyEcological SurveysSeed CollectionData EntryTaxonomic KeysHabitat ManagementMechanical Equipment OperationChemical Control MethodsBiological Control Methods

Soft Skills

CollaborationCommunicationInclusivityPublic EducationSafety Awareness

Tools & Technologies

GPS DevicesGIS SoftwareArcGISSeed Harvesting EquipmentData Collection Tools

Certifications & Qualifications

Valid Driver's License

Industry Keywords

Prairie EcosystemsWildlife SurveysEasement EvaluationsConservation BiologyPhilanthropy

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Identify native prairie plants and invasive species, and control invasive species through mechanical, chemical, biological, and cultural means
Collect native prairie seeds and safely operate and maintain seed harvesting equipment
Assist with prairie restoration, including planting seeds and monitoring sites
Complete habitat and wildlife surveys, including four-square-mile waterfowl surveys
Conduct habitat management activities such as mowing, prescribed fire, managed grazing, and invasive species control
Record detailed management data to track outcomes for priority habitats and birds
Assist with USFWS easement evaluations and compliance checks; no enforcement work required
Collaborate with Audubon staff, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and other partners
Conduct fieldwork in diverse weather conditions while following safety protocols
Educate volunteers and the public about native prairie ecosystems and bird conservation
Support a culture of philanthropy, including public funding efforts
Collaborate with colleagues across the Americas through joint planning and execution of shared priorities
Maintain and foster a culture of safety

Requirements

What you’ll need

Bachelor's degree in biology, botany, ecology, environmental science, or a related field is preferred; equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered
Coursework or field experience in plant science, restoration ecology, or conservation biology is highly beneficial
Proficiency in identifying native and invasive plant species using taxonomic keys or field guides
Familiarity with prairie ecosystems and their flora
Previous experience in fieldwork, especially in seed collection, habitat restoration, or ecological surveys
Experience using GPS devices for navigation and data collection
Commitment to Audubon’s organizational values of care, collaboration, change, integrity, impact, and innovation
Experience fostering inclusive and collaborative work environments is valued
Basic knowledge of GIS software such as ArcGIS and data entry tools is advantageous
Familiarity with operating and maintaining seed collection and processing equipment
Ability to safely handle tools and machinery used in restoration projects
Ability to work in various weather conditions, perform physically demanding tasks, and lift up to 60 lbs. with or without accommodation
Valid driver’s license and ability to travel to remote field sites