Seasonal Restoration Crew Lead
About The Position
People Architects is recruiting on behalf of a mission-driven conservation organization in Northeast Ohio for a Seasonal Restoration Crew Lead to support hands-on ecological restoration work across native marsh and swamp forest systems. This is seasonal, field-based work for someone who doesn’t want to watch conservation happen from the sidelines—you want to be out there, leading it. As a Seasonal Restoration Crew Lead, you’ll play a key role in stewarding fragile ecosystems throughout Northeast Ohio. You’ll help guide Restoration Technicians, manage invasive species projects, and contribute directly to restoring native plant communities that support long-term biodiversity. This role blends leadership, ecology, and grit—and it’s designed for someone who feels most at home when the work is tangible and the impact is real.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree (completed or in progress) in Biology, Botany, Restoration Ecology, or a related field
- Two years of related experience or an equivalent mix of education and hands-on work
- Deep curiosity about science, ecosystems, and conservation work
- Comfort using taxonomic keys and field identification guides
- Ability to lead others with clarity, professionalism, and accountability
- Willingness to learn and apply multiple invasive species management techniques
- Familiarity with native plants and wildlife of Northeast Ohio
- Strong organization, time management, and problem-solving skills
- Ability to collaborate across interdisciplinary teams and leadership levels
- Flexible availability, including occasional evenings or weekends
- Reliable transportation between field sites
- Outdoor work in all weather conditions
- Exposure to insects, thorny or poisonous plants, and uneven terrain
- Semi-remote locations with limited indoor access
- Extended walking and physically demanding fieldwork
- Ability to lift up to 50 lbs with or without reasonable accommodation
Nice To Haves
- Pesticide Applicator License preferred
Responsibilities
- Support the Restoration Manager by training and leading Restoration Technicians in daily field operations
- Assist with planning and on-site coordination of contractors and local partners
- Operate an amphibious utility task vehicle (UTV)
- Apply a variety of land management and invasive species control techniques
- Safely operate and maintain hand and power tools
- Assist with monitoring, mapping, and data entry related to invasive plant treatments
- Review GPS and aerial drone data and help integrate findings into GIS maps
- Support plant identification using taxonomic field guides
- Collect and distribute seeds and cuttings for marsh habitat restoration
- Perform additional field and restoration duties as needed
