Restoration Crew Lead

Are you looking for an opportunity in the field of Ecological Restoration with a young, growing company? Then Bluestem may be the company for you! Here at Bluestem, individuals learn, grow, and perform with a purpose.

WHO YOU ARE: Individual with an interest in land conservation. Enthusiastic about ecological restoration and preserving the environment. Strong work ethic and excited to work out in nature. Critical thinker who is interested in learning new plants & techniques. Has a positive attitude to encourage and work together with teammates.

WHO WE ARE: Bluestem works in a variety of settings including prairies, woodlands, wetlands, sedge meadows, open spaces, conservation easements detention/retention basins, and more. We deeply believe that strong partnerships and relationships are the key to making big waves in the world of Restoration and Conservation.

THE JOB: Restoration Crew Leads are responsible for managing and overseeing crew members conducting ecological restoration activities in addition to performing Restoration Tech activities. The crew lead is responsible for:

• Ensuring Crew Safety.
• Ensuring Crew follow company policies.
• Providing motivation and mentorship to crew members.
• Executing site goals/tasks efficiently and on time.
• Adherence to best practices in Restoration Ecology.
• Communicating goals, timelines, and daily tasks to crew members.
• Ensuring their crews equipment and tools are maintained.
• Filing daily job reports.
• Adapting plans as needed based on site conditions and project requirements.

BENEFITS/WAGES:

• $24.00-$25.00/HR after verification of Crew Lead Requirements.
• 6 PTO days available immediately, 12 PTO days after 1 year.
• 401(K) w/ employer match after 1 year.
• Work Boot Stipend ($150) after 1 year.
• Health/Vision/Dental/Life Insurance & Flexible Spending Account after 90 days.
• Paid training, certifications, and educational opportunities.
• Uniforms & PPE provided
• Paid Job Travel in company vehicles.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Strong leadership skills and ability to direct crew members.
• Ability to work within a team setting.
• Ability to follow verbal and written direction.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Interest in land management techniques that restore and protect critical ecosystems.
• Experience operating UTVs/ATVs, trucks with trailers, and restoration equipment (chainsaws, brush saws, herbicide backpacks, tractors/mowers, etc.).
• S130/190 or Chicago Wilderness Burn Certification
• Ability to read and understand maps.
• Illinois Pesticide Applicator/Operator License.
• Valid Driver’s License
• Able to use e-mail and phone to communicate with crew leads/crew members/supervisors.
• Strong understanding of ecological restoration techniques and Midwest plant species.
• 1 – 2 years of field experience in ecological restoration or a similar field.
• Functional understanding of basic units of measurement (inches, feet, ounces, pounds etc.)
• Ability to file daily job reports and logs.

PREFFERED QUALIFICATIONS:

• CPR/First Aid Certification.
• OSHA 10-Hour Certification.
• Heavy Equipment Operator Experience (Skid steers, Tractors, etc.)
• Strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Ability to walk long distances for up to 8 hours.
• Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions (rain, wind, snow, heat, humidity, etc.).
• Ability to navigate uneven and unstable terrain.
• Ability to lift 50lbs regularly.
• Ability to bend, stoop, and perform physically demanding tasks for extended periods.
• Ability to safely work with and near EPA approved herbicides.
• Ability to work around environmental hazards, including stinging insects, poison ivy, and wild parsnip.
• Ability to work in wetland habitats that may require hip and chest waders to navigate.
• Ability to walk long distances and distinguish colors visually.
• Ability to carry gear/equipment/backpacks up to 50lbs for up to 8 hours.
• Ability to work in prescribed fire conditions (exposure to heat, smoke, ash, and debris).

SCHEDULE:

• Start time is 7:00 A.M and occasionally 6:00 A.M.
• Typical workdays: 8-10 hours, with occasional 12-hour days as required.
• Weekend work: Occasionally required, 1-2 times per month during peak seasons and prescribed burn season.