Temporary position – 3-6 months

Yankton, South Dakota

Application Deadline: Open Until Filled

Duties and Responsibilities: These positions will be employees of Pheasants Forever and will foster the mutual conservation objectives of Pheasants Forever (PF) and South Dakota Game, Fish & Parks (SDGFP) by assisting in the development of upland bird habitat on lands owned by SDGFP throughout South Dakota.  The Habitat Tech. will assist the Habitat Specialist on SDGFP owned public lands by planting and cultivating food plots, improving nesting and brood rearing cover, woody cover plots and other habitat enhancement projects.  These cooperatively funded positions will receive weekly work direction from the Habitat Specialist and SDGFP Regional Habitat Program Managers. Onsite work will include, but not limited to: small and large equipment operation, equipment transport, site preparation, seed mixing & planting, mechanical & chemical weed control, tillage and mowing practices, fencing, posting and signing, livestock management practices, controlled burning and other agricultural practices.  Wildlife surveys may be conducted, and monitoring habitat improvements will be ongoing. The ability and willingness to work long hours during crucial periods of the growing season and coordinating work activities with SDGFP is required.  Administrative duties will include, detailed record keeping, accomplishment reporting, time management, and coordination with and assisting SDGFP habitat staff with area management plans.  Pheasants Forever organizational training will be provided by PF Regional Wildlife Biologist and PF National Office. 

Minimum Qualifications: Biological Sciences or Agriculture degree is a benefit but is not required for these positions.  PF and SDGFP are looking for motivated individuals with the ability to work long hours in the field during peak seasons of the year.  Practical experience in the operation and repair of equipment including: tractors, tillage equipment, grass drills, mowers, ATV’s, trucks, bumper and gooseneck trailers is very important.  Knowledge, experience, and training in prescribed burning are helpful.   Applicants must be an innovative and resourceful self-starter with excellent communication skills and be able to work with minimal supervision.  Successful applicants must be able to acquire a South Dakota Herbicide Applicators License.  This is a demanding but rewarding job.  The right individual will gain incredible experience working with landowners, resource agency personnel and volunteers while building, enhancing and maintaining conservation projects and wildlife habitat. 

Core Competencies and Special Ability Requirements:  We expect the persons in these positions to accept varied and changing responsibilities in the job, develop and sustain cooperative working relationships with partner agencies and the public, effectively communicate both orally and in writing, ability to work evenings, Saturdays and Sundays on occasion.

Salary:  $15.00 per hour; seasonal, full time (40 or more hours weekly)

Anticipated Start Date:  May 2024