Outdoor Ecologist - Native Restoration & Invasive Control

Dragonfly Pond Works; West Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 25,000 - 27,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance

401(k) matching

Life Insurance

Pet Insurance

Flexible Spending Accounts

Paid Time Off

Holiday Pay

Employee Assistance Program

Referral Bonus

Protective Footwear Bonus

Job summary

Dragonfly Pond Works in West Chicago, IL is seeking motivated individuals for year-round and seasonal environmental work. The role offers full-time opportunities with hourly pay and growth potential in a growing environmental company.

Responsibilities include controlling invasive species, native restoration, and safe operation of field equipment; candidates must meet licensing and educational requirements and be team-oriented with a strong safety mindset. An Equal Opportunity Employer.

Qualifications

• Must be at least 21 years old (seasonal exceptions may apply).
• Valid state driver’s license; driving record must meet insurance requirements.
• High school diploma; actively pursuing a college degree in Ecology or related field; Bachelor’s or Associate Degree preferred.
• Illinois Department of Agriculture Commercial Pesticide Operators License within first 30 days of employment.
• Ability to perform invasive plant control, native seeding, planting and controlled burning.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
• Basic smartphone and computer skills.
• Understanding of Midwest ecological restoration practices and plant communities.
• Team-oriented and aligned with Dragonfly’s values: Quality Focus, Takes Ownership, Growth Oriented.

Responsibilities

• Control invasive plant species (via herbicide 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 summarizing daily activities.
• Perform all tasks safely and adhere to safety policies.
• Conduct basic maintenance on small engine equipment and hand tools.
• Take direction from team members and crew leaders.
• Safely drive company vehicles to and from job sites, with or without a trailer.
• Safely operate equipment (UTVs, Marsh Masters, Skid Steers, Brush Mowers).
• Accurately record timesheets and submit them for manager approval.
• Follow company policies as stated in the Employee Handbook.

Skills

Team-oriented

Smartphone & computer

Midwest ecological restoration

Willingness to learn

Education

High school diploma

Pursuing Ecology degree

Bachelor’s or Associate degree preferred

Job description

Dragonfly Pond Works in West Chicago, IL is seeking motivated individuals for year-round and seasonal environmental work. The role offers full-time opportunities with hourly pay and growth potential in a growing environmental company.

Responsibilities include controlling invasive species, native restoration, and safe operation of field equipment; candidates must meet licensing and educational requirements and be team-oriented with a strong safety mindset. An Equal Opportunity Employer.