Environmental Restoration Technician (Seasonal)

Position Announcement:  Environmental Restoration Technician – Seasonal

Location: Independence, MN

Company Overview: Natural Shore Technologies is a leading ecological restoration company based in the Twin Cities area. With a passion for environmental stewardship, we specialize in the design, installation, and maintenance of shorelines, prairies, rain gardens, and other natural landscapes. We proudly serve public agencies, commercial enterprises, and residential clients. Additionally, our nursery operation provides high-quality Minnesota native plants to a wide range of clients.

We are looking for a motivated and dependable Environmental Restoration Technician to join our dynamic team for the 2025 season. If you’re passionate about natural resources and eager to gain hands-on experience in ecological restoration, this is an excellent opportunity for you!

Role Overview: As an Environmental Restoration Technician, you will work alongside experienced Crew Leaders to execute ecological restoration projects in the field. You will assist with planting, seeding, tool maintenance, brush cutting, light equipment operation, herbicide application, and more. This position provides valuable experience in plant identification, restoration techniques, and environmental management.

Key Responsibilities:

• Plant Identification & Management: Learn to identify native and invasive plant species (training provided).
• Invasive Species Control: Implement methods to control noxious and invasive weeds, including hand-pulling, herbicide application, and mowing.
• Equipment Operation: Safely operate a variety of tools and equipment, such as brush saws, weed whips, chainsaws, and more.
• Site Preparation: Assist with site preparation tasks such as brush hauling, soil grading, mulching, and more.
• Plant Installation: Install native plant plugs and trees/shrubs, following detailed restoration plans and protocols.
• Nursery Support: Aid in nursery operations, including transplanting and general organization of plants.
• Safety Compliance: Follow safety guidelines and best practices at all times.

Preferred Qualifications:

• High school diploma or GED.
• Valid MN Driver’s License with a clean driving record.
• Pursuing or completed coursework in natural resource management or a related field.
• Ability to identify and manage both native and invasive plants (training provided).
• Ability to obtain a Commercial Pesticide Applicator License (Categories A & J) within 30 days of hire.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and engage in physically demanding work.
• Comfortable working in various weather conditions (rain, heat, cold).
• Ability to stand for extended periods, wade in water, and work outdoors for long hours.
• Experience or willingness to work around stinging insects (bees, wasps, etc.).
• Safely operate machinery and heavy equipment in outdoor environments.

Benefits:

• Competitive Pay: $18.00 – $20.00/hour, depending on experience.
• Overtime pay for extra hours worked.
• No weekend or overnight work. Enjoy a balanced work-life schedule!
• Weekly team gatherings and social hours to build camaraderie.
• Opportunity to obtain Pesticide Applicator Certification and Native & Invasive Plant Identification Certification.
• Potential for long-term employment after the seasonal term.

Work Hours:

• Full-time (40-50 hours/week) from April through October. Start and end dates are flexible based on availability.
• Potential for long-term employment opportunities for exceptional employees.