Precision Rangeland Scientist/Research Specialist/ NDSU Dickinson R/ E Center

Position Information

Description & Details:

Job Title: Precision Rangeland Scientist

Location: Dickinson, ND

Job Type: Full-Time

Department: Dickinson Research Extension Center

Reports To: Center Director

Position Overview:

We are seeking a dynamic and innovative Applied Rangeland Scientist to lead and support research focused on sustainable rangeland management, ecosystem services, grazing systems, and land use practices, with an emphasis on the integration of technologies such as GIS, drones, virtual fencing, deployment of sensors, and other precision technologies. The ideal candidate will bridge science and practice to provide land management with tools and information than can improve ecological and economic outcomes across rangeland ecosystems.

Key Responsibilities:

• Design, conduct, and publish applied research on rangeland ecology, management, and restoration, demonstrating the value and limitations of emerging precision management technologies.
• Evaluate and assess range/cattle management technologies.
• Evaluate the impacts of grazing, fire, invasive species, woody plant, climate variability, and other disturbances/management practices on rangeland systems.
• Evaluate reclamation practices on energy impacted rangelands.
• Evaluate land idle impacts on rangelands.
• Evaluate forages and forage production.
• Collaborate with colleagues, land managers, ranchers, tribal entities, Extension personnel, government agencies, and conservation organizations to implement research and translate research into actionable strategies.
• Collect and analyze field data using standard and emerging technologies for rangeland monitoring and assessment protocols.
• Prepare technical reports, peer-reviewed journal articles, extension publications, multi-media materials, and presentations.
• Secure research funding through grants, partnerships, cooperative agreements, and other research funding streams.
• Contribute to educational and outreach efforts, including workshops, trainings, and stakeholder engagements.
• Supervise research assistants, technicians, and graduate students (as applicable).

Work Schedule:

Regular office hours are Monday through Friday from 7:30am to 4:30pm. There would be some travel required for speaking presentations, attending conferences and meetings and on site producer visits with extended hours during field season.

Hiring Range:

Salary commensurate with experience.

Pay is based on several factors, including budget, labor market, prior experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and/or certification and other business considerations.

Minimum Qualifications:

• M.S. in Rangeland Ecology, Natural Resources Management, Environmental Science, or a closely related field.
• Strong background in applied ecological research, especially in rangeland or grassland ecosystems.
• Demonstrated experience with field data collection, GIS/remote sensing technologies, statistical analysis, and ecological modeling.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to work collaboratively across disciplines and stakeholder groups.
• Familiarity with livestock production systems and socio-economic aspects of rangeland management.
• Ability to work both individually and as a team member.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel to field sites.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in Rangeland Ecology, Natural Resources Management, Environmental Science, or a closely related field.
• Experience working in Great Plains rangelands.
• Experience conducting research/outreach on forages
• Experience in securing research funding and managing projects.
• Proven record of peer-reviewed publications and technical writing.

Core Competencies:

• Ability to follow all safety rules and regulations and work in a safe manner.

• Ability to lead an impactful applied range, research and forage program.

Applicant Materials Required:

• Curriculum vitae

• Cover letter

• 3 references

Screening will begin: 6/17/26

Our commitment to caring for our employees isn't just words-it's proven. In NDSU's most recent Gallup Engagement Survey, our strengths centered on care and development. "My supervisor, or someone at work, cares about me as a person" and "I have the opportunities to learn and grow", were noted as top drivers. This reflects the culture you'll experience here.

NDSU OFFERS OUTSTANDING BENEFITS!

Join a workplace that invests in your well-being, your future, and your success.

Full-time employees are eligible for the following benefits:

Health & Wellness

• 100% employer-paid health insurance premiums for single and family coverage
• Choice of PPO/Basic or High Deductible Health Plan with HSA
• Coverage begins the first of the month after your hire date
• Wellness incentives for healthy lifestyle participation

Exceptional Retirement Plan

• Employer retirement contributions ranging from 7.5% up to an impressive 12.26%, depending on position

(One of the strongest retirement packages in the region!) - Your future is a priority, and it shows.

Time Away & Support

• Generous annual leave, sick leave, and 10 paid holidays
• Employee Assistance Program for confidential support
• Supportive work-life balance

Education Benefits That Grow With You

• Tuition waivers for employees (up to three classes per calendar year)
• 50% tuition waiver for spouse/partner and dependents

Additional Optional Benefits

• Supplemental Life, Dental, Vision, Long-Term Care
• Flexible Spending Accounts (Health & Dependent Care)
• Supplemental Retirement Plans

Explore Full Benefit Details:

Benefits | Human Resources | NDSU

About Us:

North Dakota State University is distinctive as a student focused, land-grant, research university. We educate leaders who solve national and global challenges by providing affordable access to an excellent education that combines teaching and research in a rich learning environment.

NDSU is in the highest Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education, R1, granted to the top research institutions in the country.

NDSU has offices across the state of North Dakota, and the main campus is in Fargo, on the Minnesota border. Along with Moorhead, Minnesota, Fargo forms one of the largest metropolitan centers between Minneapolis and Seattle. The community is consistently ranked as one of the best places to live.

NDSU is committed to fostering a community where differences are recognized as strengths. Rooted in our land-grant mission, we work together to meet the needs of North Dakota and its communities through education, research and outreach.

Equal Opportunity Statement:

NDSU does not discriminate in its programs and activities on the basis of age, color, gender expression/identity, genetic information, marital status, national origin, participation in lawful off-campus activity, physical or mental disability, pregnancy, public assistance status, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, spousal relationship to current employee, or veteran status, as applicable. Direct inquiries to: Vice Provost, Title IX/ADA Coordinator, Old Main 201, NDSU Main Campus, Fargo, ND, 58108, 701-231-7708, ndsu.eoaa@ndsu.edu.

No Smoking Notice:

As an employer, the State of North Dakota prohibits smoking in all places of state employment in accordance with N.D.C.C. § 23-12-10.

Veteran's Preference Notice:

This position is subject to North Dakota Veteran's Preference requirements.

Reasonable Accommodation Information:

North Dakota State University is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodation in its services, programs, activities, education, and employment for individuals with disabilities. To request disability accommodation in the application process, please contact Human Resources at 701-231-8961 or ndsu.hr@ndsu.edu.