Natural Areas Ecologist

Dragonfly Pond Works; West Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 24,796 - 26,863; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance

401(k) matching

Life Insurance

Flexible Spending Accounts

Paid Time Off

Holiday Pay

Job summary

An environmental service company in West Chicago is seeking an entry-level Natural Areas Ecologist to support habitat restoration efforts. Candidates should be physically adept and pursuing a degree in Ecology or a related field. Responsibilities include invasive species control and participation in habitat restoration activities. The position offers competitive hourly pay and benefits including health insurance and 401(k) matching.

Qualifications

• Must have valid state driver's license.
• Must be at least 21 years of age, unless seasonal.
• Ability to lift/carry up to 50 lbs.

Responsibilities

• Control invasive plant species using herbicide or mechanical removal.
• Participate in controlled burns as a burn crew member.
• Assist in writing service reports summarizing daily activities.

Skills

Physical ability to execute invasive plant control

Basic smartphone and computer skills

Understanding of Midwest ecological restoration practices

Education

High school diploma and actively pursuing a college degree in Ecology

Bachelor's or Associate Degree preferred

Job description

Do you enjoy working outdoors and want to be part of a growing environmental company? Dragonfly Pond Works - ILM offers year-round and seasonal opportunities with long-term career potential. Join our "swarm" today!

We are seeking passionate team members in the Greater Chicago area for the Natural Areas Ecologist role. This entry‑level, field‑based position supports habitat restoration through invasive species control, controlled burns, native seeding, and plant installation‑ideal for individuals with a background in Restoration Ecology or a related field.

Location: West Chicago, IL 60185

Pay: $18- $19.50 an hour - Full-time

Requirements

• Must be at least 21 years of age (unless seasonal)
• Must have a valid state driver's license. Driving record must meet the minimum requirements of our insurance company.
• Must possess at least a high school diploma and be actively pursuing a college degree in Ecology or a related field. Bachelor's or Associate Degree preferred.
• Must obtain an Illinois Department of Agriculture Commercial Pesticide Operators License within first 30 days of employment. Study materials and testing fees will be provided by ILM.
• Has the physical ability to execute invasive plant control (mechanical and chemical), native seeding, planting, and controlled burning. This includes standing, kneeling, bending, and walking for long periods of time on uneven terrain during all seasons and weather conditions.
• Has the ability to lift/carry up to 50 lbs.
• Has basic smartphone and computer skills.
• Has a basic understanding of Midwest ecological restoration practices and plant communities.
• Team-oriented and aligned with Dragonfly's values: Quality Focus, Takes Ownership, and Growth Oriented.

Key Responsibilities

• Control invasive plant species (via herbicide application or mechanical removal).
• Participate as a burn crew member during controlled burns.
• Restore or install native areas via native seeding and/or native plant installation.
• Assist in writing service reports to summarize daily activities.
• Perform all tasks safely and adhere to company safety policies.
• Conduct basic maintenance on small engine equipment and hand tools.
• Take direction from team members as well as crew leaders.
• Safely drive company vehicles to and from job sites, with or without a trailer.
• Safely operate specialized equipment (UTVs, Marsh Masters, Skid Steers, Brush Mowers).
• Accurately record timesheets and submit them to the Manager for approval.
• Follow company policies as stated in the Employee Handbook.

Benefits & Perks

• Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• 401(k) matching
• Life Insurance
• Pet Insurance
• Flexible Spending AccountsPaid Time Off
• Holiday Pay
• Employee Assistance Program
• Referral Bonus
• Protective Footwear Bonus

Dragonfly Pond Works is a leading environmental service company specializing in stormwater management. Since 2006, Dragonfly has provided routine maintenance and repairs on stormwater devices, lakes, ponds, wetlands, and underground facilities. We are proud to have a very respectful work environment and expect all our employees to adhere to the same standard throughout the organization.

We are proudly an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin.