Assistant Habitat Restoration Crew Leader

AECOM; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 27,552 - 46,838; Full time

Job summary

AECOM is seeking an ecological restoration crew member in San Diego, California. This full-time position involves habitat restoration, including nonnative species control and maintenance of irrigation systems. Candidates should have a high school diploma and 2+ years of fieldwork experience.

The job requires physical stamina and the ability to work in outdoor environments. Compensation ranges from $20 to $34 based on experience and qualifications.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of relevant experience in native habitat fieldwork.
• Knowledge of equipment and techniques for habitat restoration.
• Must pass a State and Federal criminal history/security background check.

Responsibilities

• Provide field labor for all aspects of habitat restoration.
• Act as back-up for the Crew Leader when needed.
• Maintain facilities and equipment at the job sites.
• Comply with AECOM's health and safety policies.

Skills

Knowledge of native plant species

Understanding of habitat restoration techniques

Ability to operate small power equipment

Elementary GPS capabilities

Bilingual (English/Spanish)

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

GPS devices

Small power tools (e.g., weed eaters, chain saws)

Job description

Job Description

San Diego Natural Resources group seeks an ecological restoration crew member for full‑time employment. The candidate will support numerous projects in southern California and report to the Field Director with day‑to‑day supervision from the Crew Leader.

Responsibilities

• Under the direction of the Crew Leader and Field Director, provide field labor for all aspects of habitat restoration including nonnative species control (manual, mechanical, and chemical), native seed application and container plant installation and maintenance, construction and maintenance of temporary irrigation systems, and erosion control.
• Act as back‑up for the Crew Leader in his/her absence.
• Work on complex projects with support and guidance from the Field Director and Crew Leader.
• Maintain the Annex (National City) and Clover Flat (Campo) facilities – e.g., irrigation, climate control, and security systems.
• Maintain seed cleaning and other equipment.
• Maintain Qualified Applicator Certificate.
• Consult with supervisor about unusual problems and developments.
• Participate in and maintain AECOM’s health and safety culture. Compliance and enforcement of OSHA and AECOM specific safety policies.

Minimum Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent and 2+ years of relevant experience in native habitat fieldwork.
• Knowledge and understanding of equipment and techniques used to perform habitat restoration.
• Knowledge and familiarity with use and repair of small power equipment, such as weed eaters, chain saws, and blowers.
• Willingness to perform herbicide application.
• Native plant species knowledge and identification.
• Elementary GPS capabilities.
• Must pass a State and Federal criminal history/security background check; many projects/clients are security sensitive.
• Must pass pre‑employment drug screen.
• Must possess a valid driver's license and clean driving record to drive between job sites.
• Majority of daily tasks require moving and working in outdoor environments with uneven terrain, heavy, moving, dangerous equipment, variable outdoor conditions including heat, dust, chemicals, moisture, and dryness.
• Position requires frequently lifting, carrying, and loading equipment weighing up to 25 lbs. such as extinguishers, Indian pumps and small power equipment without assistance and up to 50 lbs. with assistance.
• Often performing repetitive bending & stooping, power gripping/squeezing to perform maintenance tasks and operating equipment.
• Position requires wearing personal protective equipment, including safety glasses/goggles, gloves, safety shoes/boots, hard hat, hearing protection and face shield.

Preferred Skills / Experience

• Experience with electronic data collection devices.
• CPR/First Aid certified.
• English/Spanish bilingual.
• Operation of specialized equipment such as bulldozers.
• Excellent work ethic and team‑player attitude. Ability to lead, as needed.
• Strong attention to detail, with proven ability to follow specific instructions.
• Ability to effectively express his or herself orally to other project staff.

Additional Information

• Sponsorship opportunities for U.S. Employment Authorization are not available for this position.
• Relocation benefits are not available for this position.
• Work location model: On‑site.

Compensation

The offered rate of compensation will be based on individual education, qualifications, experience, and work location. The range for this position is $20 to $34 per hour.

EEO Statement

As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we believe in your potential and are here to help you achieve it. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.