Project Level Restoration Ecologist
About The Position
SWCA is seeking a Project Level Restoration Ecologist for SWCA’s Michigan operations to contribute to the growth of our ecological restoration practice. The ideal candidate will be interested in developing a long-term consulting career that combines high-level technical expertise with commercial acumen and leadership. Prior experience in leading field crews is required. Prior experience is preferred in the planning, design, and implementation of invasive plant management programs in upland and wetland environments. Prior experience is preferred within one of the following areas: invasive species management; erosion control techniques; habitat conservation planning and restoration; bank restoration; and the implementation of ecological restoration in wetland or other sensitive resource areas for public and private clients. This is a regular status, full time position, with benefits. Candidates must live within driving distance of our New Buffalo, MI office. Under this requisition, we can hire the following: Assistant Project Restoration Ecologist: Typically, with up to two (2) years of relevant experience and expertise. Three (3) years of related experience is preferred. Associate Project Restoration Ecologist: Typically, with up to three (3) years of relevant experience and expertise. Five (5) years of related experience is preferred. Please submit a cover letter to be considered for this position. Application deadline: Our team will begin reviewing applications immediately, and interviews will be scheduled with qualified candidates on a rolling basis. The application process will remain open until we have received a robust pool of qualified candidates. Once we have identified suitable individuals, we may close the application process without prior notice. We appreciate the time and effort invested by all applicants and will carefully consider each submission.
Requirements
- A minimum of two (2) years of professional experience supporting ecological restoration projects.
- Previous experience in the management of invasive vegetative species.
- Possess a valid Indiana, Michigan, or Illinois State Herbicide Applicator’s license.
- Experience leading teams in ecological restoration or similar work (landscaping, wetland construction, manual invasive plant management, etc.)
- The position requires the ability to travel up to 60% of the time, primarily to project sites within Michigan and the surrounding states.
- Demonstrated proficiency with MS Office products.
- Previous experience in technical writing within a professional context.
Nice To Haves
- A minimum of five (5) years of professional experience supporting ecological restoration projects.
- Bachelor’s degree in an environment-related discipline, such as: environmental studies, environmental science, biology, ecology or equivalent professional experience.
- Experience driving a full size pickup truck with a trailer.
Responsibilities
- Conduct invasive species inventories, habitat assessments, and ecological restoration planning to guide project strategies.
- Implement restoration activities such as seeding, planting, soil stabilization, erosion control, wetland enhancement, and long-term habitat management.
- Apply herbicides for invasive plant management, ensuring environmental compliance and best practices.
- Oversee and support field crews, ensuring safe and efficient execution of invasive species management and restoration tasks.
- Takes responsibility for team safety and anticipating potential safety hazards
Benefits
- performance bonuses
- competitive benefits package
- forward-thinking workplace flexibility
- outstanding corporate culture
- award-winning career development
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
Associate degree
