Ecological Restoration Technician

res

Lockport, Illinois

Full Time

Posted July 21, 2026

$70k - $85k· Est.

Climate Technology

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Job Description

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.

Key Responsibilities

You’ll spend 100% of your time in the field, operating equipment like large trucks, UTVs, brush cutters, augers, and chainsaws—don’t worry, safety is always the top priority. You’ll use GPS mapping systems to navigate and document your work, and you’ll get hands-on experience with backpack and hand sprayers for herbicide application. Keeping everything running smoothly, you’ll report any equipment maintenance needs and even perform some basic upkeep yourself.
If you love plants, you’re in the right place. You’ll be identifying native and invasive plant species and using that knowledge to guide your work. Mixing and applying herbicides to manage invasive species will be part of the job, and you’ll play a key role in implementing an invasive species management program to restore balance to the ecosystem.
You’ll also roll up your sleeves for planting and seeding projects, where your techniques will help bring restoration projects to life.
Lastly, if prescribed burns are part of your region’s restoration practices, you’ll have the chance to earn your S-130/190 Burn Certification and be involved in this important habitat management technique.
Please note that this is not an exhaustive list of your duties.

Requirements

You must be able to lift 50lbs, walk over uneven surfaces and up/down hills, climb on construction equipment and work outdoors and in inclement weather
High School degree or equivalent. Reliable means of transportation to get to the field office. Keen interest in natural resources and outdoors. What will make you stand out? 1+ years of work in ecological restoration. Ability to read and understand the project plans, details, and specifications. Commercial Pesticide Technician/Apprentice License in the applicable categories for your assigned state. Native and invasive plant species knowledge, applicable to your assigned state. 1+ year experience mixing and applying herbicides for managing invasive species. 1+ year experience performing planting and seeding techniques.
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.