About NRP

NRP is an ecological restoration and land management company based in Minnesota. Following our Light on the Land philosophy, we conserve and restore native habitat through best management practices — doing what is right by the land first. We are a team of dedicated ecologists, equipment operators, fire practitioners, and nature lovers who are passionate about leaving a healthier landscape for generations to come. We value hard work, reliability, and resilience in ourselves, our company, and our industry. If you care about conserving native habitat and aren't afraid to get your hands dirty to get the work done, we'd love for you to join our team.

Position Overview

NRP is seeking an experienced ecological restoration leader to serve as Operations Manager at our West Saint Paul location. This leadership role oversees our Twin Cities-based field operations— managing active restoration contracts, supervising Project Managers, supporting field crews, and ensuring the highest standards of ecological practice across all assigned projects.

 We are looking for a candidate who will grow with us and help further develop NRP into the future. As a full-time, permanent position, we offer a comprehensive benefits package including: 

• Health insurance (medical, dental, vision, and accident coverage)
• 401(k) retirement plan with employer matching
• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Per diem for overnight travel and lodging
• Annual winter clothing stipend
• Annual professional training and development stipend
• Overtime pay for all hours exceeding 40/week

The ideal candidate is a proven field practitioner who has grown into an operational leader. You bring deep technical knowledge of restoration practices, a strong track record managing complex multi-project portfolios, and the organizational ability to keep multiple contracts and crews moving forward simultaneously. Our team values hard work, reliability, and a mindset of problem solving and innovation. You must show self-initiative as you will largely be in charge of your own schedule.

This role is both field-forward and operationally complex. You'll be on-site regularly — up to 40% of your time — while also managing project financials, forecasting, and project managers.

Expected Time Allocation

60–70% - Active project oversight — leading Project Managers and field crews; managing project financials and forecasting; ensuring on-time, on-spec, on-budget delivery; daily problem-solving

30-40% - Field work — conducting site assessments, pre-project visits, and hands-on restoration support alongside crews

10% - Business development — completing assigned bids for new project work

~10% - Administrative, outreach, sales, and HR duties

Important Qualifications

Eligible candidates much show - 

• Experience implementing, leading, and managing field work in habitat management, ecological restoration, or a related field
• Strong proficiency with a variety of restoration activities: invasive species removal, brush removal, tree felling, seeding/planting, prescribed fire, herbicide application, and plant identification
• Strong proficiency with tools of the trade: chainsaws, brushcutters, herbicide applicators, OHVs, hand tools, trucks, and trailers
• Strong working knowledge of ecological restoration best management practices and ecological principles
• Ability to work irregular and overtime hours, and occasional overnight travel, as needed to meet project requirements
• Physical ability to traverse wet and/or rugged terrain in diverse, sometimes inclement weather while carrying up to 50 lbs
• Exceptional organizational ability: capable of managing multiple projects, budgets, deadlines, and personnel simultaneously
• Ability to exercise sound judgment, decisiveness, and creativity under pressure
• Passion for ecological restoration and natural resource management

Visit our Careers page to see a full description of all responsibilities, qualifications, and required certifications.

Compensation

Pay Rate: $31.00 – $35.00 per hour | Non-Exempt

Higher starting rate may be considered for candidates with exceptional qualifications beyond those listed above.

How to Apply

Submit your resume and a cover letter to careers@nrp.eco. Specify which position you are applying for in your email. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. This position will remain open until filled. No phone calls, please.

Equal Opportunity Employment

NRP is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.