About the Role
Seasonal Ecological Restoration Technician (Physically Demanding Outdoor Work)
Type: Seasonal (April - November) with potential for full-time year-round employment
Schedule: Full-time, Weekdays (8–10 hour shifts)
Work Location: Outdoor / Field-based
$18-$20/per hour based on skills and experience
Reporting Location: West Chicago, IL
Company Description:
The Prairie Guy, LLC, provides native landscape restoration services for residential and commercial clients throughout the Chicago suburbs. https://www.prairieguy.com/
Role Description:
We are seeking motivated individuals to join our ecological restoration team as Seasonal Field Technicians. This entry-level position provides hands-on experience in restoring natural landscapes while working with a supportive and dedicated team. The role is ideal for candidates who enjoy physical outdoor work and want to gain practical skills in environmental restoration.
This is a seasonal position (April - November) with the potential to transition into full-time year-round employment for high-performing team members.
Realistic Job Preview
This job involves hard, physical labor for most of the workday. You will spend long hours on your feet, lifting and carrying heavy materials, using hand tools, and working on uneven ground. The work takes place outdoors in all weather conditions, including heat, humidity, cold, rain, wind, and mud. Some days are physically exhausting, repetitive, and dirty. If you enjoy physical challenge, teamwork, and the satisfaction of seeing tangible results at the end of the day, this role can be highly rewarding. If you prefer climate-controlled environments, sedentary work, or predictable daily routines, this position may not be a good fit.
What You’ll Be Doing
Duties include:
-Identifying invasive & native plant species
-Hand-pulling weeds and applying herbicides
-Installing native plants, seed, and erosion control products
-Mowing, cutting, and removing invasive vegetation
-Clearing brush and hauling heavy natural materials
This position is a strong fit for individuals who:
-Have a passion for ecology, native plants, and the environment
-Are reliable, motivated, and willing to learn
-Enjoy working outdoors and staying active all day
-Are physically strong and able to perform demanding manual labor
-Are comfortable lifting, carrying, and using hand tools
-Can work safely and effectively as part of a crew
Required Skills & Qualifications:
-Driver’s license preferred
-Comfortable working with basic measurements (feet, inches, pounds, ounces)
-Ability to follow written and verbal instructions
-Ability to read a map
-Strong teamwork and communication skills
Required Certification:
-Illinois Pesticide Operator License (obtained within first 30 days; training provided)
Physical Requirements (Essential Job Functions):
This is a physically demanding position. Employees must be able to:
-Lift up to 100 lbs occasionally
-Lift up to 50 lbs frequently
-Lift up to 20 lbs continuously
-Perform repetitive bending, kneeling, walking, and standing for long periods
Preferred Qualifications/Skills:
-Knowledge of native plants, ecological restoration, and invasive species control
-Experience with landscaping, plant installation, or similar physical outdoor work
-Valid driver's license and reliable transportation
-Degree in ecology, environmental science, or a related field
-A commitment to sustainable and environmentally conscious practices
To apply for this position, please email your resume to: info@prairieguy.com