Ecological Restoration Technican (Summer)

EcoNorth LLC is hiring a full-time Ecological Restoration Technician for the 2024 summer. The job would be out of our headquarters in Ashland WI, near Lake Superior. Our work takes us to a variety of northern ecosystems including pine barrens, coastal estuaries, northern forests, and lakeshores. Because of our unique location, we get to work in old growth forests, remnant prairies, dune-swale complexes, and rare plant communities that few others have the opportunity to see. The bulk of our time is spent controlling invasive species, but we also survey plants, plant prairies, and create habitat for rare wildlife.

The position pays $17.50/hr and is full time (40 hr/wk) from around June 15 to August 15, 2024. If snow depths allow, work may be extended later into the winter. Opportunity for pay increase would be available after performance review. EcoNorth is a young company, but has individuals who have been in the field for years. As the company expands, there is promotion opportunity for the right employee to a crew leader position.

The employee’s responsibilities would include:

• 70% Invasive species control (operating backpack sprayers and chainsaws)
• 10% Planting trees and assisting in the establishment of prairies and pollinator plantings
• 10% Maintaining equipment and facilities
• 5% Plant surveys
• 5% GIS

This job requires that you have or willingness to learn:

• The ability to work long hours in sometimes harsh conditions including temperatures ranging from -10°F to 100°F, rain, snow, and swampy conditions
• The ability to lift and carry heavy loads (~50lbs)
• The ability to identify plants including common invasive plants of northern WI
• Experience with invasive plant control by methods such as cut-stump, foliar spray, basal bark, etc.
• Attention to detail working in the field and in record-keeping
• Ability to professionally communicate and work with other employees, supervisors, and land managers
• Willingness to learn more about the ecosystems and species that we work with
• Valid driver’s license

Not required, but preferred, skills:

• A degree in natural resources, forestry, conservation biology, or related fields
• Herbicide application certification
• Chainsaw experience and/or certification
• Experience operating work trucks, ATVs, boom sprayers, and other restoration equipment
• Experience with GIS and GPS