Restoration Technician

Bluestem Ecological Services is hiring a Restoration Technician in Marengo, IL. The role involves ecological restoration tasks such as invasive species control and planting. Ideal candidates are enthusiastic about land conservation and possess a strong work ethic. The position offers on-the-job training, competitive wages ($18-$24/hr), benefits, and opportunities for professional development. Applicants should have teamwork skills and a valid driver’s license.
HIRING IMMEDIATELY!!


Restoration Technician


Are you looking to work in the field of Ecological Restoration with a young, growing company? Bluestem may be the company for you! Here at Bluestem, individuals learn, grow, and perform with a purpose.


WHO YOU ARE: An individual interested in land conservation, enthusiastic about ecological restoration and preserving the environment, with a strong work ethic and excitement to work in nature. A critical thinker eager to learn new plants and techniques, with a positive attitude to encourage and collaborate with teammates.


WHAT WE DO: Bluestem works in a variety of environments, including prairies, woodlands, wetlands, sedge meadows, open spaces, conservation easements, and detention/retention basins. We believe that strong partnerships and relationships are key to making a lasting impact on habitat restoration and the protection of natural areas.


THE JOB: Technicians are responsible for performing work such as invasive species control, planting, erosion control, grading, equipment operation, general yard/equipment maintenance, and prescribed burns. Bluestem provides on-the-job training, certifications, and educational opportunities.


BENEFITS/WAGES:


· $18-$20/HR, Up to $22/HR after verification or completion of level 1 tech training requirements, Up to $24/HR after verification or completion of level 2 tech training requirements.


· 6 PTO days available immediately, 12 PTO days after 1 year.


· 401(K) w/ employer match after 1 year.


· Work Boot Stipend ($150) after 1 year.


· Health/Vision/Dental/Life Insurance & Flexible Spending Account after 90 days.


· Paid training, certifications, and educational opportunities.


· Uniforms & PPE provided


· Paid Job Travel in company vehicles.


REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:


· Ability to work within a team setting.


· Ability to follow verbal and written direction.


· Strong attention to detail and willingness to learn plant identification.


· Interest in land management techniques that restore and protect critical ecosystems.


· Valid Driver’s License


· Able to use e-mail and phone to communicate with crew leads/supervisors.


PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:


· Basic understanding of ecological restoration techniques and Midwest plant species (including volunteer experience).


· 6 months – 2 years of field experience in ecological restoration or a similar field.


· Functional understanding of basic units of measurement (inches, feet, ounces, pounds etc.)


· Ability to read and understand maps.


· Illinois Pesticide Applicator/Operator License.


· S130/190 or Chicago Wilderness Burn Certification.


· Experience operating UTVs/ATVs, trucks with trailers, and restoration equipment (chainsaws, brush saws, herbicide backpacks, tractors/mowers, etc.).


PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:


· Ability to walk long distances for up to 8 hours.


· Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions (rain, wind, snow, heat, humidity, etc.).


· Ability to navigate uneven and unstable terrain.


· Ability to lift 50lbs regularly.


· Ability to bend, stoop, and perform physically demanding tasks for extended periods.


· Ability to safely work with and near EPA approved herbicides.


· Ability to work around environmental hazards, including stinging insects, poison ivy, and wild parsnip.


· Ability to work in wetland habitats that may require hip and chest waders to navigate.


Ability to walk long distances and distinguish colors visually.


· Ability to carry gear/equipment/backpacks up to 50lbs for up to 8 hours.


Ability to work in prescribed fire conditions (exposure to heat, smoke, ash, and debris).


SCHEDULE:


· Start time is 7:00 A.M and occasionally 6:00 A.M.


· Typical workdays: 8-10 hours, with occasional 12-hour days as required.


· Weekend work: Occasionally required, 1-2 times per month during peak seasons and prescribed burn season.


Job Type: Full-time


Pay: $18.00 - $24.00 per hour


Benefits:



401(k)
Dental insurance
Health insurance
On-the-job training
Paid time off
Vision insurance

Schedule:



10 hour shift
12 hour shift
8 hour shift
Monday to Friday
Weekends as needed

License/Certification:



Driver's License (Required)

Ability to Commute:



Marengo, IL 60152 (Required)

Work Location: In person