Ecological Operator Technician

Job Type: Full-Time, Permanent  |  Location: Minnesota (West Saint Paul or Marshall)  |  FLSA Status: Non-Exempt (Hourly)

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

Ecological Operator Technicians run skid steers, feller bunchers, and other heavy machinery on habitat restoration projects across Minnesota. When not operating equipment, Operator Technicians work alongside Ecological Technicians for hands-on field work. Operator Technicians must have working knowledge of restoration activities with both small equipment (backpack sprayers, chainsaws, brushcutters) as well as heavy equipment (skid steers, skidders, excavators). They work with and under crew leaders to ensure successful field implementation of restoration projects.

NRP works on projects of all scales and complexity. Operator Technicians must be adaptable to changing schedules/plans and can expect a variety of project types throughout the year. Expect to work outside 90%-100% of the time. Approximately 90% of the job involves on-site, physically demanding, restoration activities with 10% of your time spent on equipment repair, maintenance, and staff meetings. This role is a strong fit for someone who wants to combine equipment operation skills with restoration ecology.

NRP invests in our people. Operator Technicians receive on-the-job training, certification support, and a direct path to advancement into Crew Lead and Project Manager roles. We are looking for candidates who want to grow with us and help build NRP into the future.

Work Schedule and Conditions

• 9 –12 hour workdays are typical (average 10 hour workdays); irregular hours and occasional weekend hours may be required to meet project deadlines
• Outdoor work year-round across Minnesota in all weather conditions
• Week-long overnight travel up to 75% of the year; per diem provided for all overnight assignments
• Select projects will require team members to drive personal vehicles to and from jobs sites

Seasonal full-time and part-time arrangements are available upon request. All positions include a 90-day probationary period.

Important Qualifications

Eligible candidates must show -

• Experience operating skid steers, tractors, excavators, and/or feller bunchers or skidders
• Experience maintaining and repairing heavy machinery
• Competency with various heavy equipment attachments such as grapple buckets, forestry mowers, etc.
• Ability and willingness to conduct habitat restoration activities including: invasive species removal, herbicide application, brush and tree removal, prescribed fire, seeding, native plant installation, erosion control, and urban habitat installation
• Competency operating hand tools and small equipment: backpack herbicide sprayers, chainsaws, brushcutters, and small engines
• Valid driver's license, ability to operate a company vehicle, and a clean motor vehicle record
• Physical ability to work long hours outdoors in conditions from -20°F windchill to 100°F+ heat index while traversing wet and/or rugged terrain and carrying up to 50 lbs
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team and adapt to shifting priorities and tasks
• Ability to maintain high work quality and efficiency under physically demanding conditions
• Ability to manage yourself independently and follow directions from supervisors
• A passion for ecological restoration and natural resource management
• Commitment to obtaining all required training and certifications within specified timelines
• Strong safety awareness for self and crew
• Ability to maintain a positive, professional attitude consistent with NRP's employee handbook
• Willingness to be flexible with scheduling as project needs shift

See the Full Job Description on our website for all responsibilities, required certifications, and preferred qualifications.

Compensation

Pay Rate: $20 per hour | Non-Exempt

Additional Earning Potential: Team members scheduled for specific government-funded contracts may earn an additional $9–$14+ per hour for applicable project time. These assignments are subject to project availability and are not guaranteed. 

Benefits

Full-time permanent positions receive a comprehensive benefits package following a 90-day probationary period:

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

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.