SD Prescribed Fire and Habitat Technicians

Prescribed Fire and Habitat Technicians
Chamberlain, South Dakota

Location: Chamberlain, South Dakota

Number of Positions: 6

Anticipated Start Date: March 2026

Duration: March 23 to June 15, potentially longer

Overview: Led by the SD Pheasants Forever Prescribed Fire Coordinator and Fire Specialist, the team of Technicians will work with partners and private landowners to conduct prescribed fires and other management practices throughout south-central South Dakota.
There may be potential for locally based candidates to work on an as-needed basis, provided job requirements are met.

Job Duties:

• Participate in the high stress environment of prescribed fire activities, which may include burn unit prep, Rx fire operations, mop-up activities, maintenance of equipment and supplies, and post-burn monitoring.
• Participate stewardship projects including tree clearing, thinning, and other projects when conditions are not conducive to prescribed fire.
• Repairing and maintaining tools and equipment.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Requirements:

• Able to complete Introduction to Wildland Fire Behavior (S-190) and Firefighting Training (S-130).
• Valid driver’s license with and acceptable driving record required.
• Must abide by all company policies, rules and safety regulations as directed.

Physical demands include the ability to complete the Moderate Work Capacity Test (walk 2 miles in 30 minutes w/ a 25lb pack).

Desired Qualifications:

• Experience operating various types of on and off-road vehicles and equipment.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team during long hours in adverse environmental conditions while maintaining a positive attitude.
• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively with private landowners, colleagues, and supervisors.
• Knowledge of basic chainsaw use and safety.
• Experience and enthusiasm working with natural ecosystems.
• Basic experience with paper maps and digital mapping software.

Pay: $18-20 per hour depending on experience.

ASSISTANCE FINDING TEMPORARY HOUSING MAY BE PROVIDED, BUT HOUSING WILL NOT BE PAID FOR.

Contact: Cody Grewing at (712)490-6720 or cgrewing@pheasantsforever.org

Pheasants Forever, Inc and Quail Forever is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, status as a protected veteran, status as a qualified individual with disability, or any other category that may be protected by law.