Ecological Restoration Technician (Emerald View Park)

The Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy seeks an Ecological Restoration Technician for the Horticulture and Forestry team, primarily focused on fieldwork in Emerald View Park. Responsibilities include invasive plant management, arboricultural maintenance, and volunteer leadership. The position is part-time, 24 hours per week, with a pay of $18/hour, starting May 4, 2026, and ending October 16, 2026. Candidates must work outdoors in various weather conditions.
About the position

The Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy is seeking a motivated and passionate individual to join the Horticulture and Forestry (H&F) team as an Ecological Restoration Technician (ERT). This is a primarily field-based position (approximately 90%) focused on the management and maintenance of park trees and ecological restoration sites. Responsibilities will shift based on seasonal conditions, weather, and project needs.\nThis role will support projects within Emerald View Park (EVP), a 240+ acre regional park spanning the Mt. Washington, Duquesne Heights, and Allentown neighborhoods.\n\nThis position is scheduled for 24 hours per week, typically across three 8-hour shifts. Compensation is $18/hour.\n\nProjected Start Date: May 4, 2026\nProjected End Date: October 16, 2026 (approximately 24 weeks)

Responsibilities

Perform invasive plant management, including hand-pulling, digging, cutting, and herbicide application (under supervision of state-certified staff)Conduct general arboricultural maintenance, including watering, mulching, and maintaining tree protection systemsMonitor and maintain existing restoration sitesLead volunteers during planting and stewardship eventsSupport development of restoration site management plansCollect and record field data to track work, inform planning, and support mapping effortsRepresent PPC professionally when engaging with city departments, partners, community groups, and park usersRequirements

Communicate clearly and effectively through verbal, written, and visual methodsDemonstrate initiative, creativity, and the ability to self-direct workAdapt to changing priorities, weather conditions, and field environmentsFollow and communicate PPC policies and proceduresWork effectively both independently and as part of a teamBuild and maintain respectful, productive working relationships in a diverse environmentApply proper safety practices in accordance with established protocolsDemonstrate reliability, flexibility, and a strong work ethicAbility to work outdoors in all weather conditionsAbility to perform physically demanding tasks, including bending, lifting, and balancingAvailability for occasional evening and weekend work (with adjusted scheduling)Valid driver’s license or government-issued ID and reliable transportationAbility to safely operate a motor vehicleSuccessful completion of required background checks:\nPA Child Abuse History Clearance\nPA State Police Criminal Record Check\nFederal Criminal History Record Information (CHRI)Nice-to-haves

Experience with arboricultural best management practicesField experience in invasive plant managementFamiliarity with native plants and ecosystems of Southwestern PennsylvaniaKnowledge of regional ecological stressors and invasive speciesAt least three (3) months of experience in land management or outdoor, public-facing workFirst Aid and CPR certification (or willingness to obtain; training provided if needed)