High Divide Headwaters Stewardship Technician

The Nature Conservancy • Lima, MT

1d • $16 - $21 • Onsite

About The Position

The High Divide Headwaters Stewardship Technician works with private and public land managers in a beautiful and wild part of southwest Montana on a variety of on-the-ground land stewardship objectives. Conservation and monitoring projects include stream restoration, rangeland vegetation monitoring, rare and endemic species monitoring, invasive species management, adaptive grazing management implementation, and wildlife friendly fencing. Position offers a unique opportunity to be involved in a collaborative, science-based, applied conservation program, and to gain experience in a wide variety of land and water issues. The Stewardship Assistant may work in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, on difficult and hazardous terrain and under physically demanding circumstances. The High Divide Headwaters Stewardship Technician performs and participates in preserve operations, maintenance and management. This is a full-time, seasonal position with an approximate start and end date of May 2026 – October 2026. Residence in TNC shared housing is a requirement of this position. Shared housing is located at TNC’s Centennial Sandhills Preserve in a remote portion of the Centennial Valley in southwest Montana. TNC will provide rent free housing, and the value of the housing is not taxable to the successful candidate. We’re looking for someone who is passionate, motivated problem-solver. Come join TNC and apply today!

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED and 1 year’s training in science-related field or related experience in land management.
• Experience recognizing plant and animal species.
• Experience operating various types of equipment in a safe and efficient manner (e.g. Lawn mower, chainsaw, UTV, ATV or OHV, two-way radio, or similar equipment).
• Experience working in a team environment.
• Must be able to obtain related licenses or certifications as required. (e.g. First Aid, CPR, herbicide or pesticide application).
• 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."
• 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.

Nice To Haves

• Ability to live in shared housing at a remote field station.
• Ability to work in isolated locations with sometimes adverse outdoor situations.
• 1 - 2 years’ experience in land management or related field.
• Experience working with or knowledge of natural systems.
• Ability to obtain driver’s license and maintain a good driving record.
• Ability to follow instructions from colleagues/coworkers/team members.
• PC and/or mobile device familiarity, including database knowledge or understanding.

Responsibilities

• Field biology: freshwater data collection and monitoring, rangeland ecology and vegetation surveys, rare and endemic plant surveys, and adaptive management programs.
• Wildlife friendly fencing, temporary electric fencing.
• Stream restoration in ephemeral and perennial streams (willow planting, building one-rock dams and BDA’s)
• Community outreach with landowners and agency partners.
• Entering data into MS Excel, MS Access, and ArcGIS.
• Invasive plant mapping and monitoring.
• Herbicide application and integrated weed management.
• Assisting in facility and property maintenance.

Benefits

• TNC offers a competitive, comprehensive benefits package including health care benefits, flexible spending accounts, a 401(k) plan with an 8% employer match, parental leave, accrued paid time off, life insurance, disability coverage, employee assistance program, other life and work well-being benefits.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED