Position Announcement:  Lead Field Technician– Full Time
Location: Independence, MN

Are you passionate about restoring and protecting Minnesota’s natural landscapes? Do you thrive in a role where your expertise in plant identification and native ecosystems can make a tangible impact? Natural Shore Technologies, a leader in ecological restoration for over 20 years, invites you to join our dedicated team as a Lead Field Technician (Ecologist I). 

At Natural Shore Technologies, our mission is to deliver exceptional native plant restorations using innovative techniques and environmentally sound land management practices. We specialize in designing, installing, and maintaining a variety of habitats, including shorelines, prairies, rain gardens, and woodlands, for public, private, and commercial clients. Our on-site nursery provides high-quality Minnesota native plants to a wide range of customers, reflecting our commitment to ecological integrity and biodiversity.

Key Responsibilities: As a Lead Field Technician, you will play a pivotal role in the ongoing stewardship of Minnesota’s ecosystems. Your responsibilities will include:

• Monitoring and maintaining diverse ecosystems, including shorelands, wetlands, prairies, and woodlands.
• Use plant identification skills to manage invasive species and support native plant communities.
• Assessing project sites to develop and implement effective vegetation management strategies.
• Operating a range of equipment, such as brush saws, chainsaws, sprayers, and ATVs, to execute restoration activities.
• Leading and mentoring seasonal work crews, fostering knowledge and professional development.
• Communicating with clients and stakeholders, representing the company in a professional and knowledgeable manner.
• Managing project data and ensuring the proper maintenance of tools and equipment.

Additional Opportunities: Beyond fieldwork, this role provides the opportunity to:

• Represent Natural Shore at trade shows and professional forums.
• Contribute to educational content, such as our newsletter and social media platforms, showcasing your knowledge of native plants and ecological restoration practices.
• Deliver presentations to homeowners and professional audiences on ecological restoration techniques.
• Collect and process native plant seed for use in restoration projects.
• Support nursery operations, including transplanting and organizing native plants, furthering your expertise in native plant species identification and propagation.
• Assist the Installation Crew Leader in designing and implementing ecological restoration projects.

What We’re Looking For: We are seeking motivated and dependable individuals with a passion for native plants and ecological restoration who possess the following qualifications:

• Experience in natural resources fieldwork with strong plant identification skills and a solid background in invasive plant management.
• Physically capable to perform strenuous tasks, including lifting up to 50 lbs, in extreme weather conditions.
• Leadership skills with the ability to supervise, teach, and inspire field crews.
• A valid Minnesota Driver’s License, with experience hauling trailers and operating machinery.
• Knowledge of herbicide application, with the ability to obtain a Commercial Pesticide Applicator license (Categories A & J) within 30 days of hire.
• Exceptional communication and organizational skills.

Why Work With Us? Natural Shore Technologies offers a supportive and professional environment that prioritizes personal and career growth. Here’s what makes us unique:

• Skill Development: Gain expertise in plant identification, invasive species management, and ecological restoration techniques.
• Mentorship: Work with seasoned professionals who bring over two decades of experience in ecological restoration.
• Professional Growth: Take on special projects, join professional societies, and participate in advanced training programs.
• Team Culture: Enjoy a collaborative and engaging work environment with regular team outings and events.
• Commitment to Learning: Participate in our in-house plant identification training program to enhance your knowledge of native plants and ecosystems.

Compensation & Benefits: We value the contributions of our team members and provide a comprehensive compensation package, including:

• Starting salary of $43,000+ (commensurate with experience).
• End-of-year bonus: 1–5% of salary, based on performance.
• Quality health insurance with 50% of premiums covered by the company.
• Paid vacation and sick leave.
• A 401(k) retirement plan with a 4% company match.
• Seasonal work schedule adjustments, 40–50 hours per week during growing season