Help Wanted: Seasonal Ecological Restoration Professionals

About A3 Environmental Consultants

A3 Environmental, LLC (A3E) is a Chicagoland ecological consulting firm that designs, implements, and monitors practical, science-based ecological restoration projects. We deliver hands-on restoration and habitat-enhancement work — from invasive-species control, selective herbicide application, brush removal, mowing, and prescribed burning to native-plant specifications, construction oversight, and long-term monitoring — for wetlands, streams, mitigation sites, parks, and green-infrastructure projects. Our field crews work side-by-side with experienced ecologists, giving new hires strong field training and real career experience in ecological restoration and stewardship.

SEASONAL ECOLOGICAL RESTORATION TECHNICIAN

POSITION SUMMARY

Our ecological restoration team cares for natural areas in Cook County (Chicago region), positively impacting native habitats and open space. The Seasonal Ecological Restoration Technician (Technician) is part of this team and provides ecological restoration services focused on the control of invasive species, mostly by selective herbicide application to target species growing among native plants. The team consists of staff members of A3 Environmental Consultants (A3E) and a prime contractor. This is a seasonal position, typically April through October.

SUPERVISORY RELATIONSHIPS

The Ecological Technician reports to the Project Manager of A3E and takes direction from the Foreman of the prime contractor other than A3E.

QUALIFICATIONS

• • Plant identification
  • Small tool and equipment operation
  • Be enthusiastic, courteous, cooperative, positive, and a team player
  • Must be 18 years or older

CERTIFICATIONS REQUIRED

• • Be able to obtain and maintain a Pesticide Operator/Applicator license in Illinois and potentially additional states (most likely Indiana or Wisconsin)
  • Hold and maintain a state issued driver’s license free from suspension or revocation

WORKING CONDITIONS AND PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• • Work requires exposure to disagreeable and strenuous conditions; be willing and able to work outdoors on uneven terrain and in adverse weather and wetness conditions
  • Work approximately 37 hours per week, 5 days per week depending on weather and workload
  • Required to meet at work sites with personal vehicle
  • Use of personal protective equipment is required

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

The Technician must be able to perform the essential duties of this job as described below at the direction of the Crew Leader or Foreman. This list is not exhaustive.

• • Control invasive species, including:
    • Herbicide application (backpack sprayer)
    • Spot-mowing
    • Brush cutting, piling, and removal of woody vegetation
    • Assist prescribed, controlled burning
    • Install native plant materials (plugs, seed, bare root)
    • Use small hand tools, gas-powered tools, and machinery (e.g. chipper, ATV, chainsaw, weed whacker)

A3 Environmental is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

PAY

When working on the Forest Preserves of Cook County contract, technicians will be paid no less than the Cook County Living Wage, which is currently $19.32/hr. We’ve found that our technicians spend approximately 96% of their time working under this contract, though this may vary slightly from year to year. For seasonal employees, we provide Illinois Paid Leave, partial mileage and toll reimbursements, PPE, and a gear allowance.

How to Apply

Click here to submit an application and attach you resume.

If you have any questions about this opportunity or issues submitting an application, please email Jobs@A3E.com.