Job Description - Ecological Restoration Crew Leader

Job Title: Restoration Ecologist/Crew Leader

FLSA: Non-exempt

Reports to: Director of Operations & Eco Tech Supervisor

Supervision: Yes

Job Summary:

The Restoration Ecologist/Crew Leader provides technical and scientific support for ecological restoration projects. The position works to restore damaged ecosystems and maintain healthy ones. This position requires daily travel to job sites and administrative office work. Excellent communication skills, time management, flexibility and attention to detail are critical skills. The position reports to the Eco Supervisor and Director of Operations.

Job Functions:

• Manage and oversee crews and project sites including daily site operations, task assignments, and safety procedures and troubleshooting
• Maintain responsible/confidential reporting practices (ie. incident reporting)
• CPR training is required for this role.
• Supervise 1 to 6 team members as a project requires.
• Ensure tasks are completed in a timely and detailed manner.
• Train and mentor Ecological Technicians.
• Communicate with stakeholders on project updates. Maintain positive relationships with customers.
• Facilitate site assessments, field monitoring, and reporting.
• Collaborate with Project Manager and Eco Supervisors to review and complete work orders, track daily logs, manage contracts, project performance and project budgeting.
• Assist with and prepare written reports, tables, spreadsheets, databases, and maps for client as required or as requested.
• GPS data collection and mapping support where necessary
• Documentation of endangered or threatened flora and fauna.
• Monitor and track vegetation locations and habitat types.
• Operate a variety of power tools and equipment safely.
• Restore overall site health implementing realistic strategies based on the site assessment.
• Be aware of weather forecast and recognize changes in weather: re-work assignments as necessary to accommodate weather (e.g., do not mix chemicals when rain is imminent, do not conduct burns if high winds are predicted or apparent, etc.)
• Maintain and repair (if able, in the field), or arranging for the repair of, equipment (including hand tools) daily. Ready equipment at the end of each day: Be ready for tomorrow, today.
• Other duties as assigned by the Ecological Supervisor and/or Director of Operations.

Skills, Knowledge and Abilities:

• Advanced knowledge and understanding of Midwetern habitats and ecosystem characteristics
• Advanced knowledge of local flora and fauna (native and non native)
• Advanced knowedge of equipment operations and ability to train crew members on safe operations and maintenance of various equipment types
• Advanced knowledge of herbicieds, application methods, and combinations for herbicide treatments and ability to coach proper mixing, and combination ratios to other crew members
• Ability to delegate tasks, train and mentor others.
• Communicate and coordinate projects and tasks with Supervisors and Project Manager.
• Exceptional time management, multi-tasking and interpersonal skills.
• Attention to detail, well-organized, and ability to prioritize tasks.
• Strong verbal communication skills, to work effectively with customers, co-workers, vendors, management team.
• Strong technology skills (ie. Microsoft suite, google suite, Arc GIS, other related platforms).
• Excellent attendance, reliable and accountable to complete work assignments.
• Knowledge of and follow Semper Fi safety protocols.
• Knowledge of OSHA standards and safety policies, and ability to obtain OSHA 30 credential within 6 months.
• Able to drive extensively to job sites, or report to the shop for a fleet truck and equipment.

Experience & Education:

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in in biological sciences or related fields preferred; high school degree required.
• Minimum three years’ experience in Ecology, Horticulture or Forestry preferred.
• Current Pesticide Herbicide Operators license in the state of Illinois.
• Complete the S130/190, S290, IC 100.c, Burn Boss Certification via the IDNR to be obtained
• Experience operating chainsaws and other related equipment.
• Must have a current driver’s license

Physical Requirements:

Prolonged periods of standing, walking, stooping, lifting for long periods of time. Able to lift 50 pounds at a time.

Disclaimer:

The job description may not cover all duties, activities or responsibilities that are required of the employee.  The scope of the job may change as necessitated by business demands.