Assistant Staff Restoration Ecologist

SWCA Environmental Consultants•Amherst, MA

20h•Onsite

About The Position

SWCA Environmental Consultants is seeking an Assistant Staff Restoration Ecologist with experience and interest in ecological restoration and invasive plant management. Projects will be located primarily throughout the Northeast, with a strong emphasis on Massachusetts. The ideal candidate will possess experience and interest in wetland ecology, invasive plant management, wetland restoration, and preferable has expertise in native and invasive vegetation identification (for plants in the northeastern U.S.). This is a regular, full-time position. Candidates must reside in Massachusetts, with preference given to those within driving distance of Amherst, MA. We are seeking candidates with a strong foundation in invasive plant management and herbicide application, who are comfortable working in field-based environments and are eager to grow their expertise in restoration ecology.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Ecology, Restoration Ecology, Botany, Environmental Science/Studies, Natural Resource Management, Agronomy, or a related life science.
Minimum of one (1) year of relevant industry experience, with direct experience in invasive plant management and herbicide application required.
Demonstrated experience safely applying herbicides in field settings.
Valid driver’s license.
Strong interest in ecological restoration, including planning, implementation, and monitoring, with a desire to grow in this field.
Demonstrated knowledge of plant identification (native and invasive species in the Northeast), plant ecology, and invasive species management.
Experience conducting fieldwork in restoration or land management settings.
Ability to work both collaboratively and independently in field environments.
Ability to perform physically demanding fieldwork, including long hours in variable weather conditions, uneven terrain, and dense vegetation.
Ability to carry equipment and supplies weighing up to 40 pounds.
Proficiency with Microsoft Excel, Word, and Outlook.

Nice To Haves

Massachusetts pesticide applicator license (or ability to obtain shortly after hire).
Additional experience in herbicide application and large-scale invasive species control programs.
Experience with wetland restoration, mitigation, or monitoring.
Experience with GIS software (ArcGIS/ArcPro) and mobile data collection tools.
Familiarity with restoration best practices, including erosion control, site stabilization, and planting.

Responsibilities

Work in a team setting to plan and complete ecological restoration and invasive plant management projects, with a strong emphasis on herbicide application and control of invasive species.
Safely mix, handle, and apply herbicides in accordance with state and federal regulations and label requirements.
Follow safety protocols, field best practices, and coordinate with other applicable SWCA staff.
Use topographic maps, aerial photographs, GPS units, and other tools to navigate and document field conditions, often in challenging environments.
Implement and complete tasks and responsibilities delegated by Project Managers and field leads.
Take ownership and accountability for assigned work and field deliverables.
Use strong organizational and communication skills, both written and verbal.
Independently supervise a small crew while conducting environmental fieldwork, including assigning and directing activities, ensuring understanding of responsibilities, serving as a conduit of communication, receiving and resolving complaints, and monitoring team productivity and offering timely performance guidance.