Environmental Field Equipment Operator (Ecological Restoration)
Resource Environmental Solutions LLC Environmental Field Equipment Operator (Ecological Restoration)
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.
As a Environmental Field Equipment Operator, you will play a vital role in implementing field-level restoration activities that help restore wetlands, streams, and habitats across the region. You’ll operate specialized equipment, contribute to high-impact ecological projects, and be part of a team that values safety, stewardship, and teamwork.
Significant travel may be required for some projects. Travel throughout the Midwest with overnight stays of 2–4-night periods will be required for some job sites. Per Diem and hotel stay provided.
Why You’ll Love This Job
- You’ll spend your days outside, working on diverse natural landscapes and seeing real environmental improvements take shape under your hands.
- You’ll work with passionate people who care about ecological impact and community restoration.
- You’ll operate cool equipment, solve field challenges, and learn something new almost every day.
- You’ll be part of a mission that matters—restoring ecosystems, protecting biodiversity, and contributing to a more sustainable future
A Day in the Life
In the field, as Environmental Equipment Field Operator, you will operate a variety of equipment, including excavators (10,000–60,000 lbs.), skid steers with standard and forestry attachments, small to medium-sized tractors (40–125 hp) with various implements, ATVs, zero-turn lawn mowers, and equipment used for herbicide application. Since you will be servicing the equipment you use, mid-level ability to troubleshoot and diagnose field equipment issues is essential, along with knowledge of auto, truck, and construction equipment maintenance schedules, fluid requirements, and basic diagnostic processes.
Additionally, you will operate chainsaws, gas-powered brush cutters, and augers and calibrate native seed drills and herbicide preparation equipment. Using mapping equipment and apps to track field progress will be part of your daily routine.
Some of the main tasks our Environmental Equipment Field Operators perform are the following:
- Invasive brush clearing, tree felling, planting, seeding, erosion, and sediment controls
- Maintenance and mowing of solar fields through equipment operation and herbicide application.
- Restoration activities include identifying and protecting native species, identifying and controlling invasive species, and site clearing.
- Loading plant and project materials at nurseries and other suppliers
Physical requirements to the Environmental Equipment Field Operator job:
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Ability to lift 50 lbs, walk on uneven ground, and climb onto construction equipment
We would like to talk to you if you have many of the following:
- High School Diploma or GED
- At least 1 year of experience in ecological restoration, landscaping, agriculture, or related work
- Experience with the repair and maintenance of small engines and equipment
- Ability to understand the project plans, details, and specifications.
- Valid Commercial Pesticide Applicator License (state-specific, or ability to obtain)
- Valid Driver's License
What would make you stand out?
- S-130/190 Burn Certification or experience with prescribed burns (region-specific)
- Knowledge of native and invasive plant species and ecological restoration methods
- Knowledge of appropriate mixing and application of herbicides for managing invasive species.
- Knowledge of proper planting and seeding techniques.
- Experience leading a prescribed burn line
- Class-A commercial driver’s license
You’ll thrive in this role if you are:
- A strong communicator who works well independently and within a team
- Self-motivated with the ability to solve problems in the field with minimal supervision
- Excited by hands-on work that contributes to ecological restoration and conservation
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.
As published by greenhouse · 14 questions
Basics
First Name, Last Name, Email, Phone, Resume/CV, Cover Letter
Short answers (6)
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- When are you available to start? Please specify MM/DD/YYYY.
- Have you signed any NDA or non-compete agreement currently in effect that could prevent you from performing the role's responsibilities at RES?
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- Are you legally authorized to work in the U.S.?
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- Are you currently located in or near the location posted for this job?
- What is your expected compensation range?
- I certify that all of the above information is true and complete, and understand that any falsification or omission of information may disqualify me from further consideration for employment or, if hired, may result in termination regardless of the time elapsed before discovery.
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- I understand that RES will not ask me to disclose, and I should not disclose, any non-public, confidential, or proprietary information of my former employer.
- I understand, where permissible under applicable state and local law, I may be subject to a pre-employment drug test after receiving a conditional offer of employment and must receive a negative result for illegal drug use before being permitted to commence work with the Company. I understand, where permissible under applicable state and local law, I may be subject to a pre-employment background check after receiving a conditional offer of employment to investigate my criminal background and other matters related to my suitability for employment.