Restoration Technician

Restoration Technician
Are you looking to work in the field of Ecological Restoration with a young, growing company? Bluestem may be the company for you! Here at Bluestem, individuals learn, grow, and perform with a purpose. 

WHO YOU ARE: An individual interested in land conservation, enthusiastic about ecological restoration and preserving the environment, with a strong work ethic and excitement to work in nature. A critical thinker eager to learn new plants and techniques, with a positive attitude to encourage and collaborate with teammates.

WHAT WE DO: Bluestem works in a variety of environments, including prairies, woodlands, wetlands, sedge meadows, open spaces, conservation easements, and detention/retention basins. We believe that strong partnerships and relationships are key to making a lasting impact on habitat restoration and the protection of natural areas.

THE JOB: Technicians are responsible for performing work such as invasive species control, planting, erosion control, grading, equipment operation, general yard/equipment maintenance, and prescribed burns. Bluestem provides on-the-job training, certifications, and educational opportunities. 

BENEFITS/WAGES:

• $18-$20/HR, $22/HR after verification or completion of level 1 tech training requirements.
• 6 PTO days available immediately, 12 PTO days after 1 year.
• 401(K) w/ employer match after 1 year.
• Work Boot Stipend ($150) after 1 year.
• Health/Vision/Dental/Life Insurance & Flexible Spending Account after 90 days.
• Paid training, certifications, and educational opportunities.
• Uniforms & PPE provided
• Paid Job Travel in company vehicles.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Ability to work within a team setting.
• Ability to follow verbal and written direction.
• Strong attention to detail and willingness to learn plant identification.
• Interest in land management techniques that restore and protect critical ecosystems.
• Valid Driver’s License
• Able to use e-mail and phone to communicate with crew leads/supervisors.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Basic understanding of ecological restoration techniques and Midwest plant species (including volunteer experience).
• 6 months – 2 years of field experience in ecological restoration or a similar field.
• Functional understanding of basic units of measurement (inches, feet, ounces, pounds etc.)
• Ability to read and understand maps.
• Illinois Pesticide Applicator/Operator License.
• S130/190 or Chicago Wilderness Burn Certification.
• Experience operating UTVs/ATVs, trucks with trailers, and restoration equipment (chainsaws, brush saws, herbicide backpacks, tractors/mowers, etc.).

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Ability to walk long distances for up to 8 hours.
• Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions (rain, wind, snow, heat, humidity, etc.).
• Ability to navigate uneven and unstable terrain.
• Ability to lift 50lbs regularly.
• Ability to bend, stoop, and perform physically demanding tasks for extended periods.
• Ability to safely work with and near EPA approved herbicides.
• Ability to work around environmental hazards, including stinging insects, poison ivy, and wild parsnip.
• Ability to work in wetland habitats that may require hip and chest waders to navigate.
• Ability to walk long distances and distinguish colors visually.
• Ability to carry gear/equipment/backpacks up to 50lbs for up to 8 hours.
• Ability to work in prescribed fire conditions (exposure to heat, smoke, ash, and debris).

SCHEDULE:

• Start time is 7:00 A.M and occasionally 6:00 A.M.
• Typical workdays: 8-10 hours, with occasional 12-hour days as required.
• Weekend work: Occasionally required, 1-2 times per month during peak seasons and prescribed burn season.