Stewardship Associate

Summary of Position:

The Stewardship Associate assists with the ongoing monitoring of conservation easements and cultivates positive relationships with landowners. The Associate will create and update baseline documentation reports, maintain accurate records relating to conservation easements, conduct monitoring of properties protected by conservation easements, assist with investigations of compliance with conservation easement terms, and offer general support to the Stewardship Department. The Stewardship Associate works closely with landowners, volunteer monitors and conservation partners.

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Justice (DEIJ):

All employees of the Minnesota Land Trust are expected to embrace the ideals of our DEIJ plan and incorporate our DEIJ goals into their ongoing work. All employees should be familiar with the current DEIJ plan.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Easement Monitoring: 40%

• Conduct annual monitoring visits in person or by analyzing satellite imagery to assess compliance with easement terms.
• Prepare reports and correspondence to landowners.
• Assist with preparation and review of monitoring materials.
• Provide support in the training of volunteer and non-Stewardship staff monitors.

Baseline Documentation and Record Keeping: 35%

• Prepare updated baseline documentation reports.
• Compile conservation data and fieldwork for use in baseline reports.
• Utilize digital photography, GPS and GIS technology for reports.
• Maintain records of conservation easement projects.

Landowner Support: 15%

• Cultivate resources (educational, financial, technical) to support landowners with their land management activities.
• Assist in the preparation and delivery of print and electronic communications to landowners.
• Depending on experience, prepare restoration and land management plans for properties protected by conservation easements or review plans prepared by others.

Stewardship Administration: 10%

• Assist with research and mapping of issues related to conservation easements enforcement and interpretation.
• Support in the training and supervision of interns and/or seasonal Stewardship employees.
• Participate in DEIJ planning and initiatives.
• Provide general office support as needed.

Position Requirements:

• A bachelor’s degree and/or at least two years of experience in conservation, ecology, habitat restoration, wildlife biology, or related science field, OR a similar combination of education and experience.
• Experience with and knowledge of natural systems. Ability to identify flora and fauna, preferably those species commonly found in Minnesota.
• Familiarity with standard field sampling techniques and data management, including digital photography and GPS data collection and management. Experience operating drones is a plus.
• Excellent communication skills, both oral and written.
• Ability to work with a wide variety of individuals, including staff, volunteers, and landowners.
• Well organized and self-directed. Strong attention to detail is a must.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, database applications, web-based information, and mapping software.
• Willingness to travel throughout the State; valid driver’s license and access to dependable vehicle is required.
• Some weekend and evening work may be required.

Physical Demands:

• Ability to hike as much as an average of five to seven miles a day on foot through uneven, rough, or wet terrain. Comfortable hiking alone.
• Ability to operate watercraft to reach remote sites.
• Ability to navigate in remote areas with dense vegetation.
• Ability to carry equipment while in the field, up to 20 pounds.
• Office duties to be performed at a desk and at a computer.

Supervisor: Director of Conservation Stewardship
Classification: Full time, hourly, non-exempt
Office Location: St. Paul, MN. Hybrid work schedules may be considered.
Compensation: Pay range is $25-27/hour depending on experience. This is an hourly, non-exempt position.