Bison Range Technician
COMPANY: Rosebud Farm Company
POSITION: Bison Range Technician
REPORT: Bison Range Coordinator
CLASSIFICATION: Hourly/Non-Exempt
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: $18.00 - $20.00 per hour
Benefits:
Dental insurance
Health insurance
Life insurance
Paid time off
Professional development assistance
Retirement plan
Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
