Lead Vegetation Management Technician - Rockford, IL

Cannon Valley Graziers; Rockford (IL); On-site; USD 34,000 - 41,000; Full time

Job summary

Cannon Valley Graziers in Rockford, IL is seeking a Lead Vegetation Technician to lead and perform vegetation management across solar sites in Illinois & Wisconsin. This role blends hands-on equipment operation, licensed herbicide application, and day-to-day crew leadership.

You will set daily plans, ensure safety and quality, mentor technicians, and coordinate travel between sites. A strong interest in land stewardship and two+ years operating heavy equipment are required.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• English communication required.
• Two+ years of experience operating heavy equipment.
• Willingness to obtain Minnesota Commercial Applicator License.
• Class A CDL (preferred).

Responsibilities

• Lead and pace a crew performing mowing and vegetation management.
• Set daily work plans and safety expectations.
• Operate tractors, skid loaders, mowers and other equipment safely.
• Perform targeted bare-ground and broadleaf herbicide applications.
• Oversee transport of mowing equipment between sites.
• Train and mentor Vegetation Technicians and support onboarding of new hires.
• Identify and communicate site hazards and operational constraints.
• Perform minor field repairs and troubleshooting.
• Ensure crew vehicles are stocked with required tools, parts, and supplies.

Skills

Leadership

Field leadership

Safety awareness

English communication

Equipment operation

Training & mentoring

Reporting & documentation

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Minnesota Commercial Applicator License

Class A CDL (preferred)

Tools

Tractors

Skid loaders

Mowers

Herbicide application equipment

Job description

Location: Rockford, IL
Employment Type: Full-Time, Seasonal
Season: April – November
Pay: $25–$30/hour, depending on experience
Reports To: Regional Project Supervisor (Upper Midwest)

About Cannon Valley Graziers:

At Cannon Valley Graziers (CVG), we provide land management services for solar energy and conservation projects across the Central and Western United States. Our mission is to improve biodiversity, soil health, and ecological function through the use of targeted grazing and complementary land management services. Our team is made up of shepherds, farmers, ecologists, and operators working together toward a shared reimagining of how livestock, people, and landscapes can coexist. We place a strong emphasis on respect, hard work, dignity, safety, and accountability.

Position Summary:

The Lead Vegetation Technician is a working crew lead responsible for executing and overseeing vegetation management across a portfolio of solar sites in Illinois & Wisconsin This role combines hands-on equipment operation, licensed herbicide application, and day-to-day crew leadership. The Lead Technician sets the pace, ensures safety and quality standards are met, and serves as the primary on-site point of accountability. This role is a good fit for individuals who take pride in hands-on work, value workplace safety and teamwork, and who enjoy working outdoors.

Key Responsibilities:

Field Leadership & Operations

• Lead and pace a crew performing mowing and vegetation management;
• Set daily work plans and safety expectations;
• Operate tractors, skid loaders, mowers and other equipment safely;
• Perform targeted bare-ground and broadleaf herbicide applications;
• Oversee transport of mowing equipment between sites;
• Monitor crew productivity, quality, and safety throughout the day;
• Train and mentor Vegetation Technicians and support onboarding of new hires;
• Identify and communicate site hazards and operational constraints;
• Perform minor field repairs and troubleshooting;
• Ensure crew vehicles are stocked with required tools, parts, and supplies;

Reporting, Safety & Compliance

• Complete daily work logs including engine hours, fuel usage, and acreage;
• Compile and report project data to Regional Project Supervisor;
• Maintain required spray logs and distribute as required;
• Typical workload is approximately 40–50 hours per week;
• Outdoor work in heat, humidity, and variable weather;
• Travel between local project sites required, some overnight trips required.

Requirements:

• A strong interest in land stewardship, vegetation management, and ecological outcomes;
• High school diploma or equivalent;
• The ability to communicate clearly in English;
• Current Minnesota Commercial Applicator License, or willingness to obtain one;
• Class A CDL (preferred);
• 2+ years experience operating heavy equipment (Tractors, Skidloaders);
• Strong leadership and communication skills;
• The ability to use digital systems for reporting, mapping, and documentation;