Parking  |  Tickets  |  Join

Cart

Ecological Restoration Technician

Requisition Number: 
597
Department: 
Restoration Ecology
Job Status: 
Seasonal
Hours: 
Full-time
Overview: 
Assist in the management of two of the Garden’s natural areas: a 15-acre created prairie (exhibits six different types of prairie communities found in northeastern Illinois) and a mile-long urban river reach with an adjoining 22 acres of developing wetlands, prairie and savanna. This position involves physically demanding work for extended periods of time. Typical work responsibilities include removal of weedy/invasive plants (including applying herbicides), seed collection and cleaning, seed sowing, mowing, raking and removing debris, tree cutting and removal, possible participation in prescribed burns, path maintenance and other related activities. Operation of small gas-powered equipment and use of hand tools is required. Duties also include caring for equipment and vehicles, data entry, record keeping, and miscellaneous office work.
Duties and Responsibilities: 

In this role you will be responsible for the following: 

  • Invasive species removal, both woody and herbaceous, which includes the cutting and removal of woody species, digging, mowing, raking and debris removal, deadheading, etc. Herbicide use is required.   
  • Seed collection and cleaning, seed nursery maintenance, seed dispersal, tree cutting and removal, path clearance, and other activities related to the development and management of the natural communities.
  • Wading in river or lakes to remove shoreline invasive plants.
  • Burn break preparation.
  • Possible prescribed burn participation.
  • Operation of small power tools including mowers, hedge trimmers, water pumps, herbicide sprayers and hand tools. The care of Garden vehicles, tools and machines.
  • Learning native flora observed in the field.
  • Assistance with data entry, record keeping, other miscellaneous office work and organizational tasks as needed.

 

Qualifications: 

Our ideal candidate will have the following:

  • A bachelor's degree in biology, restoration management or a closely related field
  • Experience in restoration management, ecology or closely related fields
  • An ability to learn plants species
  • A proven strong work ethic
  • An ability to function well in both team and individual work situations.
  • Willingness to take the Illinois Pesticide License Test and apply herbicides
Physical Demands: 
The ability to work outside in inclement weather (mosquitoes, bees, rain, potential allergens) for long periods of time doing physically demanding work. The ability to lift and carry 40 pounds for extended periods of time.
Why Apply?: 

Come work in a setting that is like no other as you support our mission: We cultivate the power of plants to sustain and enrich life. Take the first step toward being one of the employees who make the Garden one of the treasures of the Forest Preserves of Cook County. Apply today. Please note that applicants who do not meet the required qualifications will not be considered.

Disclaimer: The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and qualifications required of personnel so classified.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran, and basis of disability or any other federal, state or local protected class.

In accordance with Title IX of the Education Amendments Act of 1972, the Chicago Botanic Garden does not discriminate on the basis of sex in its programs or activities, including in employment or admissions. Please call (847) 835-8264 to contact our Title IX coordinator should you have questions or concerns.