Natural Resources Technician – Temporary

Agency: Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Division of Fish and Wildlife

Work Location: Grand Rapids, Minnesota

Start Date & Duration: May 2016 – August 2016

Salary:  $16.21 per hour

Job Description:
Support forest wildlife habitat monitoring and inventory efforts by collecting forest inventory data at monitoring plot across the forested region of Minnesota.  Work will involve conducting inventory using methods adapted from the USFS Forest Inventory and Analysis Program.

Two positions will be offered, both are temporary and anticipated to last no more than 6 months.  The position is limited to 40 hours per week, but due to the nature of the field work technicians may work four 10 hour work days per week.  A field vehicle will be provided for work use.  Technicians will work out of the Grand Rapids office with some extended travel required.  Housing is not provided except when traveling.

Required Qualifications:
Education in forestry, wildlife, or other natural resource field.  Applicants who have completed a BS degree in a relevant field are preferred, but current students will be considered.
A working knowledge of Geographic Position Systems (GPS), basic computer programs (i.e., Microsoft Office), navigation, geographic information systems (i.e., ArcGIS), and field data recorders.
Experience identifying vegetation and trees of Minnesota, establishing sampling plots, and collecting forest inventory metrics is necessary.
Ability to work independently with minimal supervision, follow established protocols, communicate findings orally, keep detailed and accurate records, write reports, and communicate effectively with wildlife managers and private landowners.
Technician must be physically fit, able to walk over difficult terrain, work under adverse weather conditions, sit still for long periods of time, hear and see well, and operate a motor vehicle on minimally maintained roads. Must possess a valid driver’s license.
Field experience collecting FIA data or similar forest inventory data is highly desirable, especially when performed full time and independently.

To Apply:
Please submit a cover letter, resume, and contact information for 3 references (name, telephone, and e-mail) as a single attachment in an e-mail to Lindsey Shartell, Forest Habitat Biologist (Lindsey.Shartell@state.mn.us).  The deadline to apply is February 26, 2016, however review of applications will begin in January and continue until the positions are filled.  For questions contact Lindsey by e-mail or telephone (218-999-7932).