Seasonal Restoration Crew Lead

People Architects is proud to partner with the Cleveland Museum of Natural History in recruiting a Seasonal Restoration Crew Lead to support hands-on ecological restoration work across native marsh and swamp forest systems.  Position Duration: This is a seasonal position running from May 4th through November 12th.

This is seasonal, field-based work for someone who doesn’t want to watch conservation happen from the sidelines you want to be out there, leading it. As a Seasonal Restoration Crew Lead, you’ll play a key role in stewarding fragile ecosystems throughout Northeast Ohio. You’ll help guide Restoration Technicians, manage invasive species projects, and contribute directly to restoring native plant communities that support long-term biodiversity.

This role blends leadership, ecology, and grit—and it’s designed for someone who feels most at home when the work is tangible and the impact is real.  

Responsibilities:

• Support the Restoration Manager by training and leading Restoration Technicians in daily field operations


• Assist with planning and on-site coordination of contractors and local partners


• Operate an amphibious utility task vehicle (UTV)


• Apply a variety of land management and invasive species control techniques


• Safely operate and maintain hand and power tools


• Assist with monitoring, mapping, and data entry related to invasive plant treatments


• Review GPS and aerial drone data and help integrate findings into GIS maps


• Support plant identification using taxonomic field guides


• Collect and distribute seeds and cuttings for marsh habitat restoration


• Perform additional field and restoration duties as needed

Qualifications (required and preferred): 

• Bachelor’s degree (completed or in progress) in Biology, Botany, Restoration Ecology, or a related field


• Two years of related experience or an equivalent mix of education and hands-on work


• Pesticide Applicator License preferred


• Have first aid certification like WFA (Wilderness First Aid), WAFA (Wilderness Advanced First Aid) or WFR (Wilderness First Responder. preferred. 
  


• Deep curiosity about science, ecosystems, and conservation work


• Comfort using taxonomic keys and field identification guides


• Ability to lead others with clarity, professionalism, and accountability


• Willingness to learn and apply multiple invasive species management techniques


• Familiarity with native plants and wildlife of Northeast Ohio


• Strong organization, time management, and problem-solving skills


• Ability to collaborate across interdisciplinary teams and leadership levels


• Flexible availability, including occasional evenings or weekends


• Reliable transportation between field sites

Working Conditions:

• Outdoor work in all weather conditions


• Exposure to insects, thorny or poisonous plants, and uneven terrain


• Semi-remote locations with limited indoor access


• Extended walking and physically demanding fieldwork


• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs with or without reasonable accommodation

We are committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace. People Architect and our clients are equal opportunity employers and do not discriminate on the basis of race, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, protected veteran status, disability, age, or other legally protected status. Applicants for employment with any of People Architect’s clients will ever be asked to provide money (even if reimbursable) as part of the job application or hiring process.