The Bison Technician & Preserve Assistant performs and participates in preserve operations, maintenance and management within the Grand River Grassland project area, including Dunn Ranch Prairie, Little Creek Farm, and Pawnee Prairie. Primary responsibilities will involve bison management, equipment maintenance, installing or maintaining fencing, boundary posting, restoring natural areas through tree and brush cutting, assisting with ecological burning activities, organization and maintenance of facilities, cattle grazing, and overall project functions, as assigned.

The Manager is responsible for the health, safety, and ecological integration of a managed bison herd on a restored native prairie. The person in this role will assist with managing population dynamics, veterinary care, grazing management, etc. to ensure the bison contribute positively to the preserve’s conservation goals. They may maintain fences, water systems, corrals, or other infrastructure. The Manager maintains preserve areas frequented by the visiting public and supports educational programs and tours. They may assist with the restoration of the prairie through the removal of exotic species and/or the planting of native species.

Within this position you may provide oversight to other employees as assigned as well as work both individually and as a group to complete tasks in a timely manner. You may work in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, on difficult and hazardous terrain, and under physically demanding circumstances. This role requires considerable physical exertion and/or muscular strain.

• AS/Technical or vocational degree in science-related field and 1-year related experience in land management or similar field, or equivalent combination of education and experience.

• Experience managing large ungulates.

• Experience recognizing plant and animal species.

• Experience operating various types of equipment in a safe and efficient manner (e.g. Lawn mower, chainsaw, UTV, ATV or OHV, two-way radio, or similar equipment).

• Experience working in a team environment.

• Must be able to obtain a driver’s license or certifications as required. (e.g. First Aid, CPR, herbicide or pesticide application).

• Multi-lingual skills and multi-cultural or cross-cultural experience appreciated.

• 1 - 2 years’ experience in land or animal management or related field.

• Experience managing a bison herd

• Experience working with or knowledge of natural systems.

• Ability to maintain a good driving record.

• Experience operating and maintaining large equipment such as tractors, skid steer loaders, and trucks with a livestock trailer.

• Ability to follow instructions from colleagues/coworkers/team members.

• PC and/or mobile device familiarity, including database knowledge or understanding

This position requires a valid driver's license and compliance with TNC’s Auto Safety Program. Employees may not drive Conservancy-owned/leased vehicles, rental cars, or personal vehicles on behalf of the Conservancy if considered "high risk drivers." To learn more about the Auto Safety Program, visit the Auto Safety information page under the FAQ section. Employment in this position will be contingent upon completion of a Vehicle Use Agreement, which may include a review of the prospective employee's motor vehicle record.

The starting pay range for a candidate selected for this position is generally within the range of $19.00 – $23.00 hourly. This range only applies to candidates whose country of employment is the USA. Where a successful candidate’s actual pay will fall within this range will be based on a variety of factors, including, for example, the candidate's location, qualifications, specific skills, and experience. Please note countries outside the USA would have a different pay range in the local currency based on the local labor market, and not tied to USA pay or ranges. Your geographic location will be confirmed during the recruitment.

Who We Are:

The Nature Conservancy’s mission is to protect the lands and waters upon which all life depends. As a science-based organization, we create innovative, on-the-ground solutions to our world’s toughest challenges so that we can create a world in which people and nature thrive. We’re rooted in our mission and guided by our values, which include respect for all people, communities, and cultures. Whether it’s career development, flexible schedules, or a rewarding mission, there’s many reasons to love life inside TNC. Want a better insight to TNC? Check out our TNC Talent playlist on YouTube to hear stories from staff or visit Glassdoor.

One goal is to cultivate an inclusive work environment so that all our colleagues around the globe feel a sense of belonging and that their unique contributions to our mission are valued. In addition to the requirements in our job postings, we recognize that people come with talent and experiences outside of a job and consider each applicant’s unique experience. Please apply – we’d love to hear from you. To quote a popular saying at TNC, “you’ll join for the mission, and stay for the people.”

What We Bring:

Since 1951, TNC has been doing work you can believe in. Through grassroots action, we have grown from a small non-profit into one of the most effective and wide-reaching environmental organizations in the world. Thanks to more than 1 million members, over 400 scientists, and the dedicated efforts of our diverse staff and partners, we impact conservation around the world!

TNC offers a competitive, comprehensive benefits package including health care benefits, flexible spending accounts, a 401(k) plan with an 8% employer match, parental leave, accrued paid time off, life insurance, disability coverage, employee assistance program, other life and work well-being benefits. Learn more about our Benefits and Perks here.

We’re proud to offer a flexible work environment that supports of the health and well-being of the people we employ.

Our recruiting process includes a rolling interview process to ensure we engage applicants in a timely manner. This means we may review applications in the order in which they are received. Once a strong candidate pool is identified, the role will be unposted. The timeline may vary depending on the expressed interest in the role, so we highly encourage candidates to apply as soon as possible.

The Nature Conservancy is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Our commitment to equal employment opportunity includes the recognition that our conservation mission is best advanced by the leadership and contributions of people of all backgrounds, beliefs, and culture. Recruiting and mentoring staff to create an inclusive organization is a priority, and we encourage applicants from all cultures, races, colors, religions, sexes, national or regional origins, ages, disability status, sexual orientation, gender identity, military, protected veteran status or other status protected by law.

The successful applicant must meet the requirements of The Nature Conservancy's background screening process.

Do you have military experience? Visit our U.S. Military Skills Translator to match your military experience with our current job openings!

TNC is committed to offering accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans in our job application process. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, please send a note to applyhelp@tnc.org with Request for Accommodation in the subject line.