Natural Resources Restoration Technician

The City of Minnetonka, MN is hiring a Natural Resources Restoration Technician for a seasonal position focused on maintaining and improving outdoor natural areas. Responsibilities include controlling invasive species, plant identification, and assisting with volunteer training. The role requires outdoor work, a valid driver's license, and related field experience. The position is full-time for six months, starting May 4, 2026, with a salary of $19.12 hourly.
Salary: $19.12 Hourly
Location : Minnetonka, MN
Job Type: Seasonal
Job Number: 2026-00034
Department: Public Works
Division: Natural Resources
Opening Date: 02/24/2026
Closing Date: Continuous
FLSA: Non-Exempt
Why Minnetonka?
Supportive culture • Work-life fit• Well-being • Employee-focused • Make a difference
Our greatest asset are our people. City of Minnetonka employees work together to drive change and make a meaningful impact on the community. We support one another in our personal and professional lives. You can expect to make a difference because in Minnetonka you and your work matter.
Job Description
The natural resource restoration technician assists staff with the maintenance and improvement of outdoor natural areas.
The work schedule will generally be Monday through Friday, and occasional Saturday and/or evening shift. 40 hours per week for six months. We are anticipating start date to be May 4, 2026.
This seasonal position is eligible for a $1.00 / $1.50 per hour bonus program. Bonus amounts are based on the number of hours worked and other criteria while in the seasonal role. Full bonus eligibility details will be provided to all finalists.
Duties/Responsibilities
Essential Job Functions:

Control invasive species and maintain natural plant habitat areas with city staff, independently and with volunteersAssist with identification of native and invasive plants, their protection and controlConduct proper control and maintenance techniques such ascutting with stump treatmentpulling and/or dead headingmowing with weed-whacker or brush bladeherbicide sprayingpruningplanting and transplantingplant cagingmulching and wateringseed collection and dispersalMaintain tools, supplies and condition of city truckAssist with workshops, volunteer training and leading volunteersOther Job Functions:Assist with administrative tasks, including field mapping and GIS recordsPerform other duties and assume other responsibilities as apparent or assigned
Qualifications
Minimum Job Qualifications:Must be at least 18 years of age, possess a valid driver's license and provide own reliable work-related transportationAbility to identify common native plants and weed species in various stages of growthHave related field work experienceAbility to work outdoors in diverse weather conditionsAbility to bend and stoop repeatedly while workingPossess strong written and verbal communication skillsDesired Job Qualifications:Education in natural resources or forestry with completed courses in plant identificationField experience in native habitat restoration including invasive species controlExperience leading volunteer projectsExperience spot-spraying non-restricted herbicidesCertified pesticide applicatorExperience with ArcMap or GIS computer programsAbility to work for six months, approximately May 2026 through October 2026
Additional Information
Knowledge of:Microsoft office suite computer programsSkilled in:Working with maps and small toolsEffectively communicating with the general publicAbility to:Work independently with varied supervisionManeuver difficult terrain on footWork safely, efficiently and productivelyPay close attention to detailTake accurate field notes including mappingHandle multiple projects simultaneouslyLearn pertinent city policies and regulationA commitment to follow the organization's shared values
Not Sure You Meet All the Qualifications?
If this role interests you, but you're unsure about meeting all the listed requirements, we encourage you to apply! Your unique experiences may be more relevant than you think, and we value both technical skills and diverse perspectives.
How to Apply:Click "Apply" at the top of the page before the closing date.Submit these documents via the online application system (no zip files or links):ResumeCover LetterQuestions? Contact Human Resources at
Hiring Process:Open Job Posting: Requisition is open and accepting applications.Selection Process: Qualified applicants join a candidate pool. Hiring managers select candidates for interviews and/or assessments. You'll be notified if selected.Pre-Employment Screening: This may include a driver's license, a criminal history background check, a drug test, a physical exam, a work assessment or simulation, and, if education-based, proof of qualifications.
Contact Us:
For position-related questions, email Katie Xiong at
Veteran's Preference:
Veterans can request preference under MN Statute 197.455 by submitting a DD214 with their application.
Equal Opportunity Employer:
The City of Minnetonka values diversity and does not discriminate based on race, color, creed, age, religion, national origin, marital status, disability, sex, sexual orientation, familial status, public assistance status, or other protected classes.
This is a non-benefit earning position.
01
Are you at least 18 years of age?YesNo
02
Describe your natural resources related work history, including any volunteer activities or school work - as it pertains to the position.
03
Describe your experience with identifying plants by self-evaluation your skill level from 1 - 5 with 5 being the highest. • Trees____ • Shrubs____ • Herbaceous____
04
Describe your ability to identify invasive species: give some MN species and where to find them:
05
Describe any work you have performed controlling invasive species, include specific methods and tools used.
06
Describe experience you have with tree care (i.e. watering, mulching, pruning, protection, etc.)
07
Describe any experience you have working with volunteers:

Salary: USD 19 - 22 per hour