Seasonal Ecological Restoration Technician

Prairie Guy; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 25,000 - 28,000; Full time

Job summary

Prairie Guy is seeking a Seasonal Ecological Restoration Technician to join our outdoor team in West Chicago, IL. This physically demanding role focuses on native plant restoration and hands-on landscape work, with daily tasks spanning plant identification, weed control, and erosion prevention.

The position runs April through November with potential for a full-time year-round transition for top performers. Be prepared for long outdoor days, heavy lifting, and strong teamwork within a dedicated

Qualifications

• Driver’s license preferred.
• Comfortable working with basic measurements (feet, inches, pounds, ounces).
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
• Ability to read a map.
• Strong teamwork and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Identifying invasive & native plant species.
• Hand-pulling weeds and applying herbicides.
• Installing native plants, seed, and erosion control products.
• Mowing, cutting, and removing invasive vegetation.
• Clearing brush and hauling heavy natural materials.

Education

Ecology/Earth science degree

Job description

Seasonal Ecological Restoration Technician

West Chicago, IL, USA

Job Type:

Seasonal (April - November) with potential for full-time year-round employment

Workspace:

About the Role

Seasonal Ecological Restoration Technician (Physically Demanding Outdoor Work)

Type: Seasonal (April - November) with potential for full-time year-round employment

Schedule: Full-time, Weekdays (8–10 hour shifts)

$18-$20/per hour based on skills and experience

Reporting Location: West Chicago, IL

Company Description:

The Prairie Guy, LLC, provides native landscape restoration services for residential and commercial clients throughout the Chicago suburbs. https://www.prairieguy.com/

Role Description:

We are seeking motivated individuals to join our ecological restoration team as Seasonal Field Technicians. This entry‑on experience in restoring natural landscapes while working with a supportive and dedicated team. The role is ideal for candidates who enjoy physical outdoor work and want to gain practical skills in environmental restoration.

This is a seasonal position (April - November) with the potential to transition into full-time year-round employment for high-performing team members.

Realistic Job Preview

This job involves hard, physical labor for most of the workday. You will spend long hours on your feet, lifting and carrying heavy materials, using hand tools, and working on uneven ground. The work takes place outdoors in all weather conditions, including heat, humidity, cold, rain, wind, and mud. Some days are physically exhausting, repetitive, and dirty. If you enjoy physical challenge, teamwork, and the satisfaction of seeing tangible results at the end of the day, this role can be highly rewarding. If you prefer climate-controlled environments, sedentary work, or predictable daily routines, this position may not be a good fit.

What You’ll Be Doing

Duties include:

• Identifying invasive & native plant species
• Hand-pulling weeds and applying herbicides
• Installing native plants, seed, and erosion control products
• Mowing, cutting, and removing invasive vegetation
• Clearing brush and hauling heavy natural materials

This position is a strong fit for individuals who:

• Have a passion for ecology, native plants, and the environment
• Are reliable, motivated, and willing to learn
• Enjoy working outdoors and staying active all day
• Are physically strong and able to perform demanding manual labor
• Are comfortable lifting, carrying, and using hand tools
• Can work safely and effectively as part of a crew

Required Skills & Qualifications:

• Driver’s license preferred
• Comfortable working with basic measurements (feet, inches, pounds, ounces)
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions
• Ability to read a map
• Strong teamwork and communication skills

Required Certification:

• Illinois Pesticide Operator License (obtained within first 30 days; training provided)

Physical Requirements (Essential Job Functions):

This is a physically demanding position. Employees must be able to:

• Lift up to 100 lbs occasionally
• Lift up to 50 lbs frequently
• Lift up to 20 lbs continuously
• Perform repetitive bending, kneeling, walking, and standing for long periods

Preferred Qualifications/Skills:

• Knowledge of native plants, ecological restoration, and invasive species control
• Experience with landscaping, plant installation, or similar physical outdoor work
• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation
• Degree in ecology, environmental science, or a related field
• A commitment to sustainable and environmentally conscious practices

Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background check and a drug screening excluding THC, with satisfactory results.