Ecological Restoration Technician I

Work in a dynamic, outdoor environment to help us reclaim, repair, and restore nature!

Summary:

Crew Members perform hands-on ecological restoration tasks under the supervision of a Crew Leader. This role is essential for implementing habitat improvement practices across forest preserves and prairies.

Work changes often but will include:

• Brush clearing and site preparation activities.


• Herbicide application.


• Installation of native plants, seed, and erosion control materials.


• Stewardship activities including mowing, hand pulling of weeds, and herbicide application to control invasive species. 


• Application of prescribed fire.
  


• Assist with site preparation and cleanup.
  

Our work tasks change more often than the seasons! Every month is different!

Hours:

Monday through Friday. Occasionally Saturday and/or Sunday work is necessary during prescribed fire season. Staffing needs and weather conditions will change total hours and starting/ending times. We work with and in nature!

Travel:

Occasional overnight team trips in other locations may be offered or requested but will seldom if ever be required. Travel may include overnight trips to Wisconsin, Iowa, Indiana, Michigan, or other states. We provide travel, lodging, and meal stipends for all overnight travel.

Qualifications:

• Driver’s license is a plus. 


• Basic plant identification skills (native and invasive species).


• A passion for the outdoors, nature, or plants! We work outdoors!


• Ability to follow oral/written directions.


• Ability to read a map.


• Develop effective working relationships with other employees.

Certifications: (you will obtain these within the first year of employment)

• State of Illinois Pesticide Operators License (Training Provided by Pizzo)


• First Aid/CPR (Training Provided by Pizzo)


• I100/S130/S190 Wildfire Firefighter Certifications (Training Provided by Pizzo)


• OSHA 10-hour (Training Provided by Pizzo)

Expected Physical Demands:

Exert up to one hundred pounds (100 lbs.) of force occasionally, up to fifty pounds (50 lbs.) of force frequently, and/or up to twenty pounds (20 lbs.) of force constantly to move or carry objects.

Expected Work Conditions:

We work in gorgeous dynamic landscapes that are often near bodies of water, wildlife, steep slopes, or on rough terrain.

This job is outdoors, in nature, throughout the year. The job may yield exposure to hot, cold, wet, humid, or windy conditions caused by the weather. Additionally, expect exposure to prescribed fire, contact with water or other liquids, exposure to loud and/or extended noises, and exposure to smoke, mud, sun, and dust.

Benefits:

Our comprehensive benefits package includes competitive salaries, generous health care options, extensive paid leave, retirement plans, and continuous professional development opportunities, ensuring our team members are supported both in and out of the workplace.

Safety:

Safety is always Pizzo's number one goal. As an employee, you have a legal right to a safe and healthy workplace.
At Pizzo, you are asked to read the workplace safety and health posters and comply with all applicable OSHA and Illinois safety standards. Our employees follow all lawful employer safety and health rules and regulations and wear/use the required protective equipment while working. You may be asked to join our health and safety committee, provide guidance on-site from a H/S perspective, or render first aid. We all share the responsibility of making sure everyone goes home to their family safely every day!

Please Note:

This job description is not intended to be a complete list of all responsibilities, duties, or skills and due to the changing nature of the job is subject to review and change at any time, with or without notice. This position is non-exempt based on FLSA laws. The Pizzo Group uses E-Verify and third-party background check services during the hiring process. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.