Ecological Restoration Operator

As a Restoration Operator I, you will play a vital role in implementing field-level restoration activities that help restore wetlands, streams, and habitats across the region. You’ll operate specialized equipment, contribute to high-impact ecological projects, and be part of a team that values safety, stewardship, and teamwork. 

Significant travel may be required for some projects. Travel throughout the Midwest with overnight stays of 2–4-night periods will be required for some job sites.Per Diem and hotel stay provided.

Why You’ll Love This Job

• You’ll spend your days outside, working on diverse natural landscapes and seeing real environmental improvements take shape under your hands.
• You’ll work with passionate people who care about ecological impact and community restoration.
• You’ll operate cool equipment, solve field challenges, and learn something new almost every day.
• You’ll be part of a mission that matters—restoring ecosystems, protecting biodiversity, and contributing to a more sustainable future

A Day in the Life

In the field, you will operate a variety of equipment, including excavators (10,000–60,000 lbs.), skid steers with standard and forestry attachments, small to medium-sized tractors (40–125 hp) with various implements, ATVs, zero-turn lawn mowers, and equipment used for herbicide application. Since you will be servicing the equipment you use, mid-level ability to troubleshoot and diagnose field equipment issues is essential, along with knowledge of auto, truck, and construction equipment maintenance schedules, fluid requirements, and basic diagnostic processes.

Additionally, you will operate chainsaws, gas-powered brush cutters, and augers and calibrate native seed drills and herbicide preparation equipment. Using mapping equipment and apps to track field progress will be part of your daily routine.

Some of the main tasks to be carried out are the following:

• Invasive brush clearing, tree felling, planting, seeding, erosion, and sediment controls
• Maintenance and mowing of solar fields through equipment operation and herbicide application.
• Restoration activities include identifying and protecting native species, identifying and controlling invasive species, and site clearing.
• Loading plant and project materials at nurseries and other suppliers

Physical requirements:

• Ability to lift 50 lbs, walk on uneven ground, and climb onto construction equipment

We would like to talk to you if you have many of the following:

• High School Diploma or GED
• At least 1 year of experience in ecological restoration, landscaping, agriculture, or related work
• Experience with the repair and maintenance of small engines and equipment
• Ability to understand the project plans, details, and specifications.
• Valid Commercial Pesticide Applicator License (state-specific, or ability to obtain)
• Valid Driver's License

What would make you stand out?

• S-130/190 Burn Certification or experience with prescribed burns (region-specific)
• Knowledge of native and invasive plant species and ecological restoration methods
• Knowledge of appropriate mixing and application of herbicides for managing invasive species.
• Knowledge of proper planting and seeding techniques.
• Experience leading a prescribed burn line
• Class-A commercial driver’s license  

You’ll thrive in this role if you are:

• A strong communicator who works well independently and within a team
• Self-motivated with the ability to solve problems in the field with minimal supervision
• Excited by hands-on work that contributes to ecological restoration and conservation