Promoting the value and function of native plants, Tallgrass Restoration works with its clients to foster sustainable landscapes ranging from forest preserves to private residences. We are looking for people with a common goal and commitment to make a positive impact on our environment while restoring and maintaining the health, integrity and beauty of our clients’ land and water resources. Our full-time staff complete a wide variety of ecological restoration projects from installing native plants, mowing, selective application of herbicide to invasive species, and more!

The preferred candidate will have a background in plant identification (native and invasive species), small tool/equipment operation, and ecological restoration practices, as well as hold a State issued Pesticide Applicator's License and S-130/190 burn training. Selected applicants will be required to undertake equipment and operations safety training. A minimum of 5 years' experience in ecological restoration with two years supervisory experience is required.

BASIC FUNCTION & ESSENTIAL DUTIES

Day-to-day leadership of all assigned Tallgrass Restoration field staff and the management of ecological restoration services to public, private, corporate, and other potential clients. This will include on site management of Tallgrass field staff comprised of Restoration Technicians, Equipment Operators, and other Foreman, as assigned; positive interaction with clients, local agency personnel, Tallgrass Project Managers, and the general public; completion of projects safely and within the constraints of the budget and contract. Lead work teams in the installation and stewardship of ecological restoration projects related to prairie, wetland, woodland and other natural community restoration, installation, and stewardship. Specific job tasks may include:

• Invasive species control tasks including herbicide application, mowing grass/brush, and cutting and piling brush.
• Installing plants, seed, and erosion control materials.
• Utilization of hand tools, small gas-powered machinery (chainsaws, weed whackers, walk-behind mowers), chipper, and ATV.
• Driving truck and trailer combination.
• Controlled prescription burning, which will require some weekend availability.
• Manage field crews and ensure quality control of all sites.
• Assist with on-the-job training of new employees.
• File daily work reports including herbicide records.
• Goals will be established and communicated relating to job cost performance, employee safety, time management, equipment, and material utilization.
• Communication, collaboration, and coordination with Operations, other Foreman, Project Managers, Restoration Technicians, clients, and the public.
• Maintain neat and organized vehicles and other workspaces to ensure a safe, clean workplace.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Occasional overnights may be required, with per diem reimbursed to employees. Employees may be required to meet on site for some projects, with excess mileage expense reimbursed, so reliable transportation is needed.

Tallgrass Restoration is an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. Tallgrass Restoration will not discriminate against  employees and applicants for employment regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, pregnancy, national origin, ancestry, disability (mental or physical), genetic information, military status, marital status, order of protection status, gender identity, and sexual orientation, all in accordance with applicable law.

This employer participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.

POSITION QUALIFICATIONS

• Minimum of five years’ experience with plant identification, small equipment operation, and ecological restoration, with a minimum of two years in a supervisory role.
• Experience in utilization of hand tools and small machinery including chainsaws, brushcutters, walk-behind mowers, and herbicide backpack sprayers required. Equipment operation of skid loaders and other heavy machinery preferred.
• Associate’s or Bachelor’s Degree in environmental studies/science, biology, forestry, or related field preferred.
• Ability to work outdoors under adverse weather conditions.
• Enthusiasm, strong work ethic, courteous and positive attitude, with a team player mentality.
• Strong oral communication skills.

CERTIFICATIONS

• Must have state issued driver’s license that is free from suspension or revocation during term of employment. A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is preferred.
• Must be able to obtain state issued Pesticide Applicator’s license within 10 days of employment.
• Must have NWCG S-130/190 certification. Additional advanced burn certifications and burn boss experience preferred.

  WORKING CONDITIONS & PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Work requires heavy muscular effort or exertion, but not continuous. Must be able to lift 50 lbs.
• Work is outdoors in uneven terrain and in various weather conditions and requires use of personal protective equipment.
• 35 to 50 hours per week, 4-6 days depending on weather and workload.
• Subject to COVID-19 Vaccine Mandate as Tallgrass is a federal contractor.  Must have proof of vaccination or receive an exemption.