Individual Placement - Invasive Species and Prairie Management Specialist at The Valentine National Wildlife Refuge

Position Summary 

The Valentine National Wildlife Refuge(NWR) Invasive Species and Prairie Management Specialist will carry out much needed control of invasive Eastern Red Cedar trees threatening Sandhill Prairie, wetland and marsh habitats, which are critical to migrating and breeding birds, as well as other species of wildlife. Control methods include cutting and digging with hand tools, ATV-mowing equipment and herbicide application. Experience using GIS is a plus. All positions(depending on qualifications of applicants) may also help with other biological duties as assigned. Technicians and aids should have the ability to work independently and as part of a team, tolerate working outdoors in all conditions (heat, cold, rain, insects, etc.), physical ability to hike while carrying tools, and have a valid driver’s license. Training in driving ATV/UTV’s will be given and a bunkhouse is available, with shared kitchen and living space. Positions are expected to last 6 months.

 

Location 

Valentine, NE

 

Schedule 

June 22, 2026 - October 30, 2026

 

Key Duties and Responsibilities 

Documenting locations and treatments applied to invasive trees using GPS and GIS technology. (60%)

 

Marginal Duties 

Conducting annual monitoring of rare plants; monitoring effects of the grassland grazing program; Invasive species control and habitat mapping. (20%); Other biological surveys and maintenance projects.(20%)

 

Required Qualifications 

Valid drivers license

 

This SCA Position is authorized under the Public Land Corps Authority. All participants must be between the ages of 16 and 30, inclusive, or veterans age 35 or younger. Participants must also be a citizen or national of the United States or lawful permanent resident alien of the United States. Hours served can be applied toward the Public Land Corps (PLC) hiring authority.

 

Preferred Qualifications 

Experience using GIS is a plus.

 

Hours 

40 per week

 

Living Accommodations 

Bunkhouse is available, with shared kitchen and living space

 

Compensation

Living Allowance: $600/week; Relocation Allowance, paid once: $1,100

All allowances are subject to applicable federal, state, and local taxes. 

 

Personal Vehicle Information

Required

 

Additional Benefits 

Defensive Driving Training

Off-Road Vehicle Safety

AmeriCorps: Not Eligible

 

Equal Opportunity Statement 

The Student Conservation Association, Inc., is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The SCA strives to cultivate a work environment that encourages fairness, teamwork, and respect among all staff members and is committed to maintaining a work atmosphere where lifestyles may grow personally and professionally.