OFFICE LOCATION Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA MN401 WHO WE ARE The mission of The Nature Conservancy (TNC) is to conserve the lands and waters upon which all life depends. As a science-based organization, we develop innovative, on-the-ground solutions to the world's toughest environmental challenges so that people and nature can thrive. Our work is guided by our values, which include a commitment to diversity and respect for people, communities, and cultures. From a rewarding mission to career development and flexible schedules, there are many reasons to love life #insideTNC. Want to know more? Check out our TNC Talent playlist on YouTube to hear stories from staff or visit Glassdoor. One of TNC's primary goals is to cultivate an inclusive work environment so that employees around the globe have a sense of belonging and feel that their unique contributions are valued. We know we'll only achieve our mission by hiring and engaging a diverse staff that reflects the communities in which we work. Recognizing that people bring talent and skills that have been developed outside the scope of a job, we take a holistic approach to recruitment that considers life experience in addition to the professional requirements listed in our postings. Please apply - we'd love to hear from you. To quote a popular saying at TNC, "you'll join for the mission, and you'll stay for the people." WHAT WE CAN ACHIEVE TOGETHER The Seed Scout Technician will conduct field reconnaissance to inform a climate-smart seed collection strategy that is based on conditions, flowering, seed set, and other factors that vary by species from year to year. You will travel to public and private lands in central and southern Minnesota. You will follow all seed collection, storage, and transportation protocols. May work in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, on difficult and hazardous terrain, and under physically demanding circumstances. This work is part of an initiative called Minnesota Million (MM) - a vision to reforest large swaths of Minnesota through collaboration with a broad and inclusive group of coalition partners. This initiative includes a new dedicated effort to increase and improve the quality of tree seeds and seedlings available in Minnesota. The seeds you collect will be provided to Minnesota farmers, who will grow them into seedlings. WE'RE LOOKING FOR YOU Are you looking for a career to help people and nature? Guided by science, TNC creates innovative, on-the-ground solutions to our world's toughest challenges so that people and nature can thrive together. We're looking for someone who is passionate, motivated problem-solver. Come join TNC and apply today! A successful candidate will be knowledgeable in Minnesota tree identification and phenology and will be comfortable working in the field alone or in small groups. Ideal candidates will be able to work from early September through late October. The need to work flexibly is important. For example, depending on individual schedule and seed availability, our Seed Scout Technician may work 8 -10 hrs most weeks but occasionally work up to 40 hours if conditions allow. Preference for candidates located in central and southern Minnesota. WHAT YOU'LL BRING * High school diploma or GED and 1 year's training in science-related field or related experience in land management. * Solid tree and shrub identification and phenology knowledge of MN native species * Experience collecting tree seeds or considerable experience with other kinds of seed collection Experience working in a flexible team environment. * Must be able to work weekends and evenings, as needed. * Must be able to travel both day trips and overnights, as needed. In addition, the following DESIRED skills and/or experiences would be an asset for this role but are not required. For applicants without these, please view these as areas or skillsets where you will have opportunities for growth and professional development. DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS * Multi-lingual skills and multi-cultural or cross-cultural experience appreciated. * 1 - 2 years' experience in seed collections or related field. * Experience working with or knowledge of natural systems. * Ability to follow instructions from colleagues/coworkers/team members. * PC and/or mobile device familiarity, including database knowledge or understanding. WHAT WE BRING Since 1951, TNC has been doing work you can believe in. Through grassroots action, we have grown from a small non-profit into one of the most effective and wide-reaching environmental organizations in the world. Thanks to more than 1 million members, over 400 scientists, and the dedicated efforts of our diverse staff and partners, we impact conservation around the world! TNC offers a competitive, comprehensive benefits package for our regular positions. As this is a short-term, temporary part-time position, you will receive accrued paid sick leave, 2 personal days, worker's compensation, life insurance, disability coverage, employee assistance program, other life and work well-being benefits. Learn more about our benefits on our Culture Tab on nature.org/careers. We're proud to offer a flexible work environment that supports of the health and well-being of the people we employ. AUTO SAFETY POLICY This position requires a valid driver's license and compliance with TNC's Auto Safety Program. Employees may not drive Conservancy-owned/leased vehicles, rental cars, or personal vehicles on behalf of the Conservancy if considered "high risk drivers." To learn more about the Auto Safety Program, visit https://www.nature.org/en-us/about-us/careers/recruitment/ under the FAQ section. Employment in this position will be contingent upon completion of a Vehicle Use Agreement, which may include a review of the prospective employee's motor vehicle record. SALARY INFORMATION The starting pay range for a candidate selected for this position is generally within the range of $20- $26 per hour, depending on experience and qualifications. This range only applies to candidates whose country of employment is the USA. Where a successful candidate's actual pay will fall within this range will be based on a variety of factors, including, for example, the candidate's location, qualifications, specific skills, and experience. Please note countries outside the USA would have a different pay range in the local currency based on the local labor market, and not tied to USA pay or ranges. Your geographic location will be confirmed during the recruitment. APPLY NOW To