Ecological Restoration Technician
Summary
Field-based role restoring ecosystems by planting, removing invasives, and operating equipment like chainsaws and sprayers across PA, WV, NY, and OH with up to 75% travel.
At RES, we’re looking for purpose-driven individuals who are passionate about restoration and sustainability, and who want their work to make a lasting environmental impact. Our team members go above and beyond, bringing initiative, integrity, and a strong work ethic to every project. Collaboration is key—we thrive on teamwork, open communication, and diverse perspectives. In a field that constantly changes, we value those who are resilient, adaptable, and resourceful in the face of challenges. If you're intellectually curious, eager to learn, and ready to help restore ecosystems and protect natural resources, you’ll find your place here.
Are you ready to be a key player in the restoration of natural environments while operating top-of-the-line equipment? At RES, we’re looking for a passionate and motivated Restoration Technician to join our team. In this hands-on role, you will have the unique opportunity to work outdoors, make a tangible impact on vital ecosystems, and operate a variety of specialized equipment—all while gaining valuable experience in the field of environmental restoration.
The mission: Our Techs work on a variety of projects, including Stream restoration, Stormwater, Restoration planting, Invasive plant removal/management, and Landscape construction. The work is seasonally steady and will require over 50 hours per week. Opportunities for weekend work during peak periods. Ability to travel up to 75% within the region. Significant travel may be required for some projects. The region includes Pennsylvania, West Virginia, New York, and Ohio. Travel with overnight stays of 1–4-night periods will be required for some job sites.
If you are an avid outdoorsman and want to start your journey in ecological restoration industry – this is the right job for you.
What your day-to-day might look like?
In the field, you will be planting, seeding, installing erosion control blanketing, brush cutting, operating light equipment, and applying herbicide to control invasive species.
Please note that we also work outside come rain or come shine, and are exposed to insects including ticks and mosquitoes, or to poisonous plants such as poison ivy. You will be walking long distances, and carry equipment, such as chainsaws and gas-powered brush cutters & augers or a sprayer (up to 50 lbs). At times, you will be also required to operate UTVs, skid steers, and trucks with trailers.
This job consists of 100% field work.
Qualifications
We would like to talk to you if you have many of the following:
- High School degree or equivalent.
- Team player- able to operate and adapt within a team.
- Keen interest in natural resources and outdoors.
What will make you stand out:
- 1 or more years working in field operations or civil construction or on natural resource or water resource infrastructure projects.
- Prior experience performing native seed and plant installation, including erosion control measures.
- Native plant identification knowledge
- Prior experience spraying herbicide and the ability to study for and pass a test to become a licensed Pesticide Applicator
- Experience with repair and maintenance of small engines and equipment
- Ability to obtain and maintain a FedMed Certificate and drive truck and trailer
Please note that the “Day in the Life” section is not intended to be an exhaustive list of job duties, but rather a representative snapshot of typical responsibilities and work experiences at RES.
RES is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a VEVRAA Federal Contractor. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.