Associate Project Restoration Ecologist

Swca Environmental Consultants; Amherst (MA); On-site; USD 41,507 - 53,561; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision coverage

401(k) Profit Sharing Plan

Employee stock ownership plan (ESOP)

Performance bonuses

Job summary

SWCA Environmental Consultants is seeking a Project Restoration Ecologist in Amherst, MA to join our Ecological Restoration team. This full-time position focuses on invasive plant management and herbicide application.

The role requires a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field and 5+ years of experience in ecological restoration, with a strong focus on managing invasive species. A comprehensive benefits package and competitive salary ranging from $30.13 to $38.88 per hour are offered.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in ecological restoration.
• Demonstrated hands-on experience applying herbicides.
• Commercial Pesticide Applicator License (NY) required or ability to obtain.
• Experience leading or supporting field crews.
• Strong knowledge of invasive species control techniques.
• Familiarity with regulatory compliance and permitting.

Responsibilities

• Support ecological restoration team across Upstate New York.
• Implement invasive species management strategies.
• Conduct ecological assessments and restoration planning.

Skills

Invasive plant management

Herbicide application

Field project leadership

Plant identification

GIS proficiency

Education

Bachelor's degree in Ecology, Environmental Science, Natural Resource Management

Tools

GIS tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

About the Opportunity

SWCA Environmental Consultants is actively seeking a Project Restoration Ecologist to support our Ecological Restoration team across Upstate New York, with the majority of work concentrated in the Syracuse and Buffalo regions.

This is a full-time opportunity for a hands‑on professional with strong expertise in invasive plant management and herbicide application. The role is field‑intensive and critical to the successful execution of restoration projects throughout the region.

Candidates must reside within driving distance of Syracuse and Buffalo, NY.

Responsibilities

• Bachelor’s degree in Ecology, Environmental Science, Natural Resource Management, or a related field.
• 5+ years of experience in ecological restoration, with a strong focus on invasive species management and herbicide application.
• Demonstrated hands‑on experience applying herbicides; Commercial Pesticide Applicator License (NY) or ability to obtain required.
• Experience leading or supporting field crews and implementing restoration projects.
• Strong knowledge of plant identification, invasive species control techniques, and Northeast/Great Lakes ecosystems.
• Experience with ecological assessments, restoration planning, and regulatory compliance.
• Familiarity with permitting and regulatory coordination in New York (e.g., NYSDEC).
• Proficiency in GIS tools (e.g., Collector or similar) and Microsoft Office Suite.
• CERP certification or ability to obtain preferred.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to meet SWCA’s driver requirements.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Ecology, Environmental Science, Natural Resource Management, or a related field.
• 5+ years of experience in ecological restoration, with a strong focus on invasive species management and herbicide application.
• Demonstrated hands‑on experience applying herbicides; Commercial Pesticide Applicator License (NY) or ability to obtain required.
• Experience leading or supporting field crews and implementing restoration projects.
• Strong knowledge of plant identification, invasive species control techniques, and Northeast/Great Lakes ecosystems.
• Experience with ecological assessments, restoration planning, and regulatory compliance.
• Familiarity with permitting and regulatory coordination in New York (e.g., NYSDEC).
• Proficiency in GIS tools (e.g., Collector or similar) and Microsoft Office Suite.
• CERP certification or ability to obtain preferred.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to meet SWCA’s driver requirements.

Benefits

SWCA Environmental Consultants offers a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, wellness, life, and disability coverage. Employees may also participate in a 401(k) Profit Sharing Plan and Trust. All regular‑status employees are eligible for performance bonuses.

Competitive salary for an Amherst, MA‑based position ranges from $30.13 to $38.88 per hour, depending on experience, qualifications, geographic location, client requirements, and other factors permitted by law.

All employees are eligible for benefits such as an Employee Assistance Program, training and professional development, and an employee stock ownership plan (ESOP).

Equal Opportunity Employer

EOE - women, minorities, individuals with disabilities and veterans are encouraged to apply. At SWCA Environmental Consultants, we celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive work environment.