Bison Range Technician

Bison Range Technician

Company: Rosebud Farm Company – Wolakota Bison Range

Reports To: Bison Range Coordinator

Classification: Full-Time, Hourly/Non-Exempt

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $18.00 – $21.00 per hour

Job Summary

The Bison Range Technician plays a key role in the daily operations of the Wolakota Bison Range, assisting with herd monitoring, fencing, water systems, and land management — all in alignment with Wolakota's mission to honor our responsibility to the land, the bison, and the Oyate.

The ideal candidate is dependable, observant, and willing to work in rugged, remote conditions. They must be able to follow direction, complete tasks independently or as part of a team, and uphold safety and stewardship standards in all aspects of their work.

Scope of Responsibility

Herd and Range Support

• Conduct daily field checks to observe bison health and range activity
• Assist with seasonal herd movements under the direction of the Bison Range Coordinator
• Report any signs of injury, illness, or unusual behavior promptly to the Coordinator

Fencing and Infrastructure

• Repair and maintain fencing, gates, and corrals to ensure secure pastures
• Help maintain water systems, including tanks, solar pumps, and pipelines
• Assist with setup and takedown during seasonal herd roundups and harvest events

Equipment and Tools

• Safely operate UTVs, tractors, post drivers, and hand tools in field settings
• Perform routine upkeep on tools and vehicles used during daily operations
• Follow all safety procedures when using equipment or transporting materials

Team and Communication

• Follow direction from the Bison Range Coordinator and work as part of a field team
• Communicate clearly and respectfully about tasks, challenges, and field conditions
• Assist with visiting partners, volunteers, or contractors as needed

Knowledge and Skills

• Willingness to learn bison behavior, land stewardship practices, and safety protocols
• Experience in outdoor, agricultural, ranching, or conservation work preferred
• Comfort working in remote locations and extreme weather conditions
• Basic field skills including use of hand tools, fencing repair, and water system maintenance
• Ability to follow instructions, ask questions, and complete tasks independently
• Strong work ethic, awareness in the field, and respect for cultural and community values

Benefits

• On-site housing provided at the Wolakota Bison Range; utilities included
• Work vehicle and tools provided
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan with employer matching
• Paid time off (PTO)
• Paid training and development opportunities

Schedule

This role follows a Monday through Friday schedule, with rotating weekend on-call duties shared among staff to ensure continual care for the land and herd. Additional availability may be required in the event of emergencies.

Relocation Requirement

This position requires full-time residency on-site at the Wolakota Bison Range (Mission, SD area). Housing and utilities are provided.

Organizational Values

At Wolakota, we expect all team members to embody values that reflect our responsibility to the land, the bison, and the Sicangu Oyate:

• Community First – Serve our people with humility, purpose, and respect.
• Excellence – Uphold the highest standards in safety, care, and operations.
• Cultural Respect – Honor Lakota lifeways and the sacred relationship with the bison.
• Stewardship – Protect and restore the land through thoughtful, long-term action.
• Responsibility – Be accountable to the mission, to each other, and to future generations.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $ $21.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply

License/Certification:

• Driver's License (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Saint Francis, SD 57572: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $18 - $21