Staff Restoration Ecologist

SWCA Environmental Consultants; Amherst Woods (MA); On-site; USD 30,000 - 47,000; Part time

Job summary

SWCA Environmental Consultants is seeking a Staff Restoration Ecologist to support ecological restoration projects in Massachusetts. The role emphasizes floodplain restoration, plant installation, and field surveys conducted by a dedicated restoration team.

It is a temporary, hourly position with strong emphasis on field work and safety. The candidate should have two years of relevant experience in ecological restoration, a valid driver's license, and the ability to perform physically demanding

Qualifications

• Minimum of two years of relevant experience in forestry, ecological restoration, landscaping, construction, or a related field.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and work outdoors in varied and sometimes extreme weather conditions.
• Valid driver's license required.

Responsibilities

• Leads field surveys to collect and analyze data on vegetation, wildlife, and habitat conditions, ensuring comprehensive and accurate documentation.
• Oversees and trains others in proper restoration practices, including live stake and plant material installation and deer fencing.
• Oversees the implementation of restoration plans, including planting native species and erosion control measures.
• Monitors sites to assess restoration effectiveness and compliance with project specifications and regulatory standards.
• Prepares daily field reports and contributes to project documentation and regulatory reporting.
• Collaborates with engineers, scientists, and project managers to ensure successful project planning and execution.

Skills

Fieldwork

Data collection

Team collaboration

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Environmental Science

OSHA 10/40 certification

Job description

About the opportunity

SWCA Environmental Consultants is seeking a Staff Restoration Ecologist to support ecological restoration projects in Massachusetts. This role will be part of our Ecological Restoration Group and will focus on floodplain restoration and restoration plant installation.

The position requires consistent field deployment to the project sites. The ideal candidate will have a strong interest in ecological restoration, enjoy hands-on fieldwork, have direct large-scale plant installation experience, and work effectively as part of a team. Primary responsibilities include live stake and containerized plant material installation; deer fencing installation; and other related restoration tasks.

This is a temporary, non-exempt, hourly opportunity and is expected to last until December 2026. Priority will be given to candidates located in Massachusetts or within reasonable driving distance of the project site.

Depending upon project assignments, this role may serve as the lead for field survey crews, independently directing daily work activities, promoting safe and productive work practices, communicating project and personnel issues to management, and providing performance-related feedback in support of successful project delivery.

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and interviews may be scheduled as qualified candidates are identified. This position may close without prior notice once a strong candidate pool is established.

What you will accomplish

• Leads field surveys to collect and analyze data on vegetation, wildlife, and habitat conditions, ensuring comprehensive and accurate documentation.
• Proficiently operates, handles, stores, and transports tools, equipment, and chemicals, adhering to proper practices. Conducts routine pre-use inspections and maintenance to ensure safe working condition, reporting any defects or malfunctions to the supervisor immediately. Oversees and trains others in proper practices.
• Conducts detailed site assessments to evaluate ecological conditions, identify restoration opportunities, and develop appropriate strategies.
• Oversees the implementation of restoration plans, including the planting of native species, removal of invasive species, and installation of erosion control measures.
• Monitors and evaluates project sites to assess the effectiveness of restoration efforts and ensure compliance with project specifications and regulatory standards.
• Prepares daily field reports. Contributes to other detailed reports and documentation to support project progress, regulatory compliance, and final project outcomes.
• Maintains and troubleshoots field equipment to ensure accurate data collection and efficient operation during field activities.
• Supports permitting processes by preparing necessary documentation, conducting impact assessments, and liaising with regulatory agencies.
• Collaborates with interdisciplinary teams, including engineers, scientists, and project managers, to ensure successful project planning and execution.
• Engages with clients for field coordination and other basic communication needs.
• Follows applicable federal, Tribal, state, local, industry, contractual, and company regulations, standards, and specifications.
• Performs related work as assigned.

Additional Job-Specific Responsibilities

• Performs restoration fieldwork and assigned project activities under the direction of Field Supervisors.
• Supports floodplain restoration activities, including tree and shrub installation, deer fencing installation, and other related restoration tasks.

Experience and qualifications for success

• Minimum of two years of relevant experience in forestry, ecological restoration, landscaping, construction, or a related field.
• Ability to adapt to shifting priorities, demands, and timelines.
• Flexible and responsive during periods of change.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and work outdoors in varied and sometimes extreme weather conditions.
• Valid driver's license required.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Environmental Science, Wetland Science, Ecology, or a related field.
• Experience with erosion control practices.
• OSHA 10-hour or 40-hour certification.