Seasonal Ecological Restoration Technician

SUMMARY: Participate in work teams to complete the installation of ecological restoration projects and provide stewardship activities for a variety of clients. Job duties will include carrying out tasks related to prairie, wetland, woodland and other natural community restoration, installation, and stewardship. This position is seasonal, typically April through November, but this is flexible and varies based on work load.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

• Invasive species control tasks, including:
  • Herbicide application utilizing backpack sprayer
  • Mowing grass/brush
  • Cutting and piling brush
• Installing plants and seed
• Erosion control activities
• Utilization of hand tools, small gas-powered machinery (chainsaws, weed whackers, walk-behind mowers), chipper, and ATV
• Driving truck and trailer combination, if necessary
• Controlled prescription burning
• Perform other duties as assigned

POSITION QUALIFICATIONS/REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS

• Hands-on plant identification, tool/equipment operation, and ecological restoration activity exposure
• Ability to work outdoors under adverse weather conditions
• Enthusiasm, strong work ethic, courteous and positive attitude, team player mentality
• Must be 18 or older
• State issued driver’s license that is free from suspension or revocation during term of employment
• Must be able to obtain state issued Pesticide Operator’s license

WORKING CONDITIONS & PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Work requires heavy muscular effort or exertion, but not continuous. Must be able to lift 50 lbs.
• Working outdoors in uneven terrain and in various weather conditions
• Required use of personal protective equipment
• 30 to 50 hours per week, 4-6 days depending on weather and work load

Tallgrass Restoration is an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. Tallgrass Restoration will not discriminate against employees and applicants for employment regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, pregnancy, national origin, ancestry, disability (mental or physical), conviction record, arrest record, genetic information, military status, marital status, order of protection status, gender identity, sexual orientation, citizenship status, work authorization status, and unfavorable discharge from military service, all in accordance with applicable law. 

This employer participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.

Pay rate is based on experience, education, and certifications held. Base rate of pay is $16.00/hr based on experience, certifications held, and education. Tallgrass pays living wage ($18.75/hr) when working on our Forest Preserves of Cook County contract.