Ecological Restoration Technician (Seasonal → Potential Full-Time Permanent)
Company: NexGen Land Solutions LLC
Location: Illinois (field-based; travel required)
Job Type: Full-Time Seasonal (Potential for Permanent Year-Round Position)
About Us
NexGen Land Solutions is a growing ecological restoration and invasive species management company specializing in habitat restoration across Illinois. Our work includes invasive species control, herbicide application, prescribed fire support, forestry and brush management, drone spray operations, and restoration work in sensitive natural areas.
We are looking for hardworking, dependable individuals who enjoy working outdoors and want to build a career in ecological restoration and natural resource management.
This position is ideal for someone who takes pride in physical outdoor work, enjoys learning, and wants to grow into a long-term role with increasing responsibility.
What You’ll Do
This is a 100% field-based position. Workdays and job duties vary by season, weather, and project needs.
Typical responsibilities include:
- Invasive species control using mechanical and chemical methods
- Herbicide application using backpack sprayers, ATV sprayers, and handheld equipment
- Brush cutting, chainsaw work, mowing, and vegetation management
- Working in prairies, wetlands, woodlands, sedge meadows, naturalized basins, and other habitat types
- Learning plant identification, restoration methods, and treatment techniques
- Operating equipment including:
- UTVs
- Tractors
- Skid steers
- Trucks and trailers
- Brush cutters and chainsaws
- Assisting with prescribed fire operations
- Performing visual observer duties during drone spray operations
- Maintaining equipment, PPE, and work vehicles
- Recording work completed, materials used, and site conditions
- Working safely and professionally around clients, agency staff, and the public
What We’re Looking ForRequired
- Strong work ethic and reliable attendance
- Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions
- Ability to hike long distances and work on uneven terrain
- Ability to lift and carry equipment up to 50 lbs
- Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation
- Interest in natural resources, ecology, forestry, agriculture, or outdoor work
- Willingness to learn herbicide application and plant identification
Preferred
- Experience with ecological restoration, forestry, landscaping, agriculture, or outdoor labor
- Native and invasive plant identification knowledge
- Prior herbicide application experience
- Illinois Pesticide Operator or Applicator License
- Chainsaw or brush cutter experience
- Experience towing trailers or operating equipment
- GPS or mapping app experience
- Prescribed fire experience
Work Environment
This is physically demanding outdoor work. Employees regularly work in:
- Heat, cold, mud, rain, humidity, and rough terrain
- Areas with ticks, mosquitoes, poison ivy, and dense vegetation
- Remote field locations throughout Illinois
Some overnight travel is required depending on project location. Per diem and approved travel expenses are reimbursed.
Employees may be required to report directly to job sites for some projects.
Pay & Benefits
- Starting Pay: $20–24/hour depending on experience and qualifications
- Overtime opportunities during peak season
- Paid time off
- Employer-paid work-related certifications and training
- Potential for advancement into Crew Lead or specialized positions
- Potential for take-home work vehicle based on experience, performance, and operational needs
- Potential for permanent year-round employment for the right candidate
Schedule
- Monday–Friday
- Day shift
- Occasional Weekends during busy periods
- Weather dependent
How to Apply
Apply on Indeed with a resume and brief description of:
- Your outdoor work or restoration experience
- Any herbicide application experience or licenses
- Equipment you’ve operated
- Why you’re interested in ecological restoration and habitat management
Experience in ecological restoration is preferred, but motivated individuals with strong work ethic and willingness to learn are encouraged to apply.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $20.00 - $24.00 per hour
Benefits:
Ability to Relocate:
- Towanda, IL 61776: Relocate before starting work (Required)
Work Location: In person
