About this role
Position Summary
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.
Other facts
About Student Conservation Association
The Student Conservation Association (SCA) is the largest provider of hands-on environmental conservation programs for youth and adults.
Our program participants protect and restore national parks, marine sanctuaries, cultural landmarks and community green spaces at various locations across the country.
After working with the SCA, our members emerge with increased environmental awareness, social responsibility and leadership skills.
As America’s most effective youth conservation service organization, the SCA transforms lives by empowering young people of all backgrounds to plan, act, and lead while they protect and restore our natural and cultural resources.
Founded in 1957, the SCA is dedicated to building the next generation of conservation leaders while inspiring lifelong protection of the environment and our communities.
SCA's mission is to build the next generation of conservation leaders and inspire lifelong stewardship of our environment and communities by engaging young people in hands-on service to the land.
What you'll do
- The Botany and Stewardship Technicians will assist with land stewardship, ecological restoration, and habitat monitoring work. Key duties include native prairie seed collection, plant identification, and GIS data collection.
Ready to join Student Conservation Association?
Take the next step in your career journey