Ecological Restoration Operator

At RES, we’re looking for purpose-driven individuals who are passionate about restoration and sustainability, and who want their work to make a lasting environmental impact. Our team members go above and beyond, bringing initiative, integrity, and a strong work ethic to every project. Collaboration is key—we thrive on teamwork, open communication, and diverse perspectives. In a field that constantly changes, we value those who are resilient, adaptable, and resourceful in the face of challenges. If you're intellectually curious, eager to learn, and ready to help restore ecosystems and protect natural resources, you’ll find your place here.

Are you ready to be a key player in the restoration of natural environments while operating top-of-the-line equipment? At RES, we’re looking for a passionate and motivated Restoration Operator to join our team. In this hands-on role, you will have the unique opportunity to work outdoors, make a tangible impact on vital ecosystems, and operate a variety of specialized equipment—all while gaining valuable experience in the field of environmental restoration.

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 are 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, including identifying and protecting native species, identifying, and controlling invasive species, and site clearing.


• Loading plant and project materials at nurseries and other suppliers

Please note that this is not an exhaustive list of your responsibilities.

Physical requirements:

Ability to travel up to 50% within the Midwest Region. Significant travel may be required for some projects. Travel throughout Midwest with overnight stays of 2–4-night periods will be required for some job sites.

Please note that we also work outside come rain or come shine, and are exposed to insects including ticks and mosquitoes, or poisonous plants such as poison ivy. The ability to lift up to 50 pounds is needed.

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

• High School degree or GED.


• 1+ years working on natural resources, farming or water resource infrastructure projects.


• Experience with the repair and maintenance of small engines and equipment


• Ability to understand the project plans, details, and specifications.


• An up-to-date DOT medical card.

• Reliable means of transportation to get to the field office.

What will make you stand out:

• Native plant identification knowledge


• Knowledge of appropriate mixing and application of herbicides for managing invasive species.


• Knowledge of proper planting and seeding techniques.


• Commercial Pesticide Applicator License.


• S-130/190 Burn Certification


• Experience leading a prescribed burn line


• Class-A commercial driver’s license  

Please note that the “Day in the Life” section is not intended to be an exhaustive list of job duties, but rather a representative snapshot of typical responsibilities and work experiences at RES.

RES is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a VEVRAA Federal Contractor. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.