Natural Areas Ecologist 1

Integrated Lakes Management, Inc.; Illinois; On-site; USD 23,419 - 24,796; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401K with company match

Paid Time Off

Job summary

An ecological management company in Illinois is hiring a Natural Areas Ecologist for full-time and seasonal positions. This entry-level role involves controlling invasive plant species, participating in controlled burns, and restoring native areas. Candidates should have a high school diploma and be pursuing a degree in Ecology or a related field. The position requires physical stamina and includes safety training. Salary ranges from $17 to $18 per hour with additional benefits including 401K matching and paid time off.

Qualifications

• Must be at least 21 years of age (unless seasonal).
• Valid state driver’s license required with acceptable driving record.
• Obtain pesticide license within 30 days of employment, studying materials provided.

Responsibilities

• Control invasive plant species using herbicide or mechanical methods.
• Participate in controlled burns as a burn crew member.
• Restore or install native vegetation through seeding and plant installation.
• Assist in writing service reports summarizing daily activities.

Skills

Invasive plant control

Native planting

Basic smartphone and computer skills

Understanding of ecological restoration practices

Education

High school diploma (active pursuit of college degree preferred)

Bachelor’s or Associate Degree in Ecology

Job description

Natural Areas Ecologist 2, Lead Ecologist, Natural Areas Ecology Department Manager

Department

Natural Areas Ecologist

General Summary

ILM is seeking full-time and seasonal staff who are passionate about the environment and preserving natural areas in the Greater Chicago area. A Natural Areas Ecologist 1 implements terrestrial based habitat restoration services. These services include controlling invasive plant species (via herbicide application or mechanical removal), controlled burning, native seeding, and native plant installation. This position is an entry level field-based position for individuals that have a background in Restoration Ecology or related field. The diverse responsibilities and unique experiences this position provides allow for abundant learning opportunities.

Duties & 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.
• Obtain required certifications/licenses. ILM will provide study materials and testing fees.

Type

Full Time-Year-Round, or Seasonal

Hours

40-60 hours per week

Salary & Benefits (full time only)

• $17-$18 per hour
• 401K with company match
• Paid Time Off

Qualifications

• 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.

Experience

This is an entry level position; however, experience in Soil and Water Conservation, Ecological Restoration, Conservation, or Environmental/Biological Science is preferred.