Lead Vegetation Technician (Seasonal) — Outdoor Site Leader

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

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.