Ecological Restoration Crew Leader (Physically Demanding Outdoor Work)

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

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

Work Location: Outdoor / Field-based

$20-$25/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/

Job Overview

This role is intended for experienced restoration professionals who thrive in physically demanding outdoor work and are comfortable leading by example. As an Ecological Restoration Crew Leader, you will supervise field crews while actively performing strenuous restoration tasks throughout the day. This is not a desk-based leadership position—you will work alongside your crew, using tools, lifting materials, and operating in challenging field conditions.

Key Responsibilities

Work varies by season and site and requires consistent physical effort. Responsibilities include both performing and supervising:

• Applying herbicides and managing invasive species
• Installing native plants, seed mixes, and erosion control materials
• Performing stewardship activities such as mowing and hand-removal of invasive vegetation
• Assisting with site setup, breakdown, and cleanup
• Maintaining safe, productive, and physically efficient work practices in the field
• Leading crews during brush clearing and heavy site preparation work

Work Schedule & Conditions

• Monday through Friday, 8-10 hour shifts
• Daily start and end times vary based on weather, staffing needs, and project requirements
• Work is conducted outdoors on uneven terrain and in all weather conditions, including heat, cold, rain, and wind

Who This Role Is Best For

This position is well suited for candidates who:

• Are physically strong and comfortable performing strenuous labor throughout the workday
• Prefer hands-on leadership and working alongside their crew
• Enjoy working outdoors in challenging conditions
• Are dependable, safety-minded, and team-oriented
• Take pride in physical work and seeing tangible results

Required Experience & Qualifications

• 1–2 years of ecological restoration or similar field experience
• Valid driver’s license (required)
• Non-CDL Class C or higher preferred
• Basic plant identification skills (native and invasive species)
• Prior experience leading or directing field crews
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions
• Ability to read maps and navigate job sites
• Strong communication and teamwork skills

Required Certifications

• Illinois Pesticide Operator License

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 lifting, bending, kneeling, walking, and standing for extended periods
• Safely use hand tools and equipment throughout the workday

What We Offer

• Leadership role on diverse ecological restoration projects
• Opportunities for professional development and additional training
• A team-oriented, field-driven work environment
• Meaningful, physically active work with visible results

Additional Information

This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of duties and may change based on project needs.