Natural Resources Field Technician Lead 04077 NWRC

Location: Salt Lake City, Utah
Title: Natural Resources Field Technician Lead
Schedule (FT/PT): Temporary Full Time
Travel Required: Yes (75-100%)
Government Clearance: Ability to Obtain

Incorporated in 2011, North Wind Resource Consulting’s core capabilities include environmental documentation and permitting; natural and cultural resource surveys; wildlife and botanical expertise; National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) technical services; historic and prehistoric surveys; environmental consultation such as Section 106 for cultural resources, Section 404 for wetlands, and Section 7 for endangered species); and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and mapping capabilities. North Wind Resource Consulting maintains offices across the country.

POSITION PURPOSE:
We are seeking proactive, self-reliant, problem solvers to lead a two-person team as a Natural Resources Field Technician Lead. This field-based position requires someone who is comfortable in remote environments, adapts to dynamic conditions, and demonstrates sound decision-making in challenging situations without constant supervision. This person will be responsible for ensuring accurate daily data collection, leading by example in adhering to safety protocols, and maintaining a strong work ethic.

Fieldwork takes place outdoors where weather and terrain can be demanding. Field teams generally work 10-to-12-hour days with an 8 days on/ 6 days off schedule. This role requires self-motivation, initiative, and the ability to work effectively within a two-person team and coordinate with other teams. The position will report to a Project Manager located in Idaho Falls, Idaho; however, the field technician may be stationed near the survey area.
The anticipated start date for this position is around April/May, with exact dates to be confirmed closer to the field season in collaboration with our NRCS client. The position is expected to run until September 30, with potential opportunities for extension based on performance and project needs. Start and end date flexibility to accommodate college schedules can be arranged if necessary.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Lead a team of 2 – 3 Range Technicians in data collection and field sampling assignments.
• Coordinate daily field operations with other leads stationed in the same area.
• Independently address challenges in the field and adapt plans as necessary to ensure safety and data quality.
• Execute and enforce established field protocols for vegetation sampling and data collection (including species inventory, foliar cover, canopy gap, species abundance, and herbaceous and woody heights).
• Provide guidance to team members on the collection and maintenance of field data.
• Take accountability for the accuracy, completeness, and organization of collected data and photos, ensuring they are properly entered, reviewed, and uploaded to the proper channels in a timely manner.
• Safely navigate off-trail and operate 4WD vehicles on remote, unmaintained roads.
• Ensure proper care and maintenance of all equipment, including vehicles, to avoid unnecessary damage or loss.
• Perform qualitative range assessments, collect photo points, and conduct extensive QA/QC checks on collected data and photos.
• Dig soil pits to characterize and describe soil horizons and correlate sites with ecological site descriptions (ESDs).
• Utilize handheld units for data collection, and upload photos to the NRCS server.
• Maintain regular communication with project management, support staff and NRCS range staff.

ADDITIONAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Assist with logistical planning and preparation for field hitches (including but not limited to booking hotel rooms, ensuring vehicles and equipment are maintained, coordinating travel schedules with other teams).
• Prepare materials such as maps and equipment for field assignments.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Education and Experience:
Bachelor’s Degree in botany, rangeland science, biology, natural resource management, soils, ecology, or closely related field. Alternatively, candidates actively working towards a degree in one of these fields may be considered if they have relevant coursework (e.g., plant identification, natural resources, etc.) and/or prior experience in vegetation sampling, soil characterization, or related outdoor fieldwork.

Skills and Abilities:

• Demonstrated aptitude in areas such as leadership, problem-solving, and working in remote, outdoor environments
• Ability to lead a team and be entrusted with autonomy to make critical decisions in the field
• Quick learner with a strong work ethic and a proactive approach to challenges
• Detail-oriented and take pride in producing high-quality work
• Ability to work independently, adapt to unforeseen challenges, and make safe, intelligent decisions in a remote setting
• Clear communication skills and the ability to provide guidance to entry-level technicians
• Familiarity with vegetation and soil survey techniques
• Ability to navigate effectively with maps, GPS devices, and offroad vehicles
• Willingness and ability to consistently enact high performance standards in support of the goals and objectives of the NRI program and North Wind’s commitment to providing the NRCS with the highest quality data.

Special Requirements:

• Ability to travel and work a rotating schedule of 8 days on and 6 days off with overtime
• Valid driver’s license and experience safely operating 4WD trucks on paved and unpaved roads, often in remote, rugged terrain.
• Must be able to pass a pre-employment drug test and background check.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• 3 years of relevant experience demonstrating proficiency in the previously listed skills and abilities
• Familiarity with NRCS's National Resources Inventory (NRI) methodology and/or BLM's Assessment, Inventory, and Monitoring (AIM) protocols is strongly desired
• Experience identifying plants using a dichotomous key and describing soil horizons
• CPR/First Aid certified

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Ability to walk long distances (up to several miles per day) over rugged and uneven terrain while maintaining an efficient pace to meet project deadlines and team productivity standards
• Must have the physical stamina to work outdoors for extended hours, often in challenging hot or cold weather conditions, and carry equipment and supplies weighing up to 30 pounds

WORKING ENVIRONMENT:

• Extended travel and outdoor fieldwork in remote, rugged environments
• Long drives in company vehicles to access survey locations, often traveling between remote areas, hotels, and project sites on both paved and unpaved roads. Drive times can vary depending on project location and where the employee is stationed.

North Wind offers a competitive pay and benefits package to include health, life, and disability insurance benefits, 401(k) with company match, generous paid leave and tuition reimbursement for eligible employees. As a company, we are committed to employee wellness, professional development, and work-life balance. We value safety, reliability, and commitment to our people! For more information about our benefits or hiring philosophy, visit the North Wind Career Opportunities Page.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The nature of those accommodations will be determined on a case-by-case basis. If you are an individual with a disability and require a reasonable accommodation to complete any part of the application process, or are limited in the ability or unable to access or use this online application process and need an alternative method for applying, you may contact our Helpline +1.208.528.8718 or use the Request for Reasonable Accommodation form to get assistance.

North Wind is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer and welcomes all qualified applicants. Applicants will receive fair and impartial consideration without regard to race, sex, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic data, religion, or other legally protected status. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to their protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.

Proof of citizenship will be required as a condition of employment.

Candidates may be required to obtain and hold a Secret or Higher US Government Clearance.