Seasonal Restoration Technician 

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. Passionate 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: Seasonal Technicians are responsible for performing work including invasive species control, planting, erosion control, grading, equipment operation, general yard/equipment maintenance, and prescribed burns. Bluestem provides on-the-job training, certification, and educational opportunities.

BENEFITS/WAGES:

• $15-$17/HR
• 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:

• Ability to work within a team setting.
• Ability to follow oral and written direction.
• Valid Driver’s License
• Access to e-mail and ability to use a phone to communicate with crew leads/supervisors.
• Interest and willingness to learn and apply land management techniques that restore, steward, and protect critical ecosystems.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Understanding basic ecological restoration techniques & basic Midwest plant knowledge, including through volunteer experience and/or course work.
• Knowledge of equipment operation/maintenance (small engines, brush saws, tractors/mowers etc.)
• Attention to detail and willingness to learn new plant ID.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Ability to work outdoors under adverse weather conditions (this includes rain, wind, snow, sleet, hot, cold, humid, and dry environmental conditions).
• Ability to navigate uneven and unstable terrain.
• Ability to lift 50lbs on a continual basis.
• Ability to bend and stoop on a continual basis.
• Ability to safely work with and near EPA approved herbicides.
• Ability to work around stinging insects and hazardous plants such as bees, poison ivy, wild parsnip, and other environmental hazards.
• Ability to work in wetland habitats that may require hip and chest waders to navigate
• Ability to walk long distances.
• Ability to see long and short distances and distinguish color visually.
• Ability to carry gear/equipment/backpacks up to 50lbs for prolonged periods of time.
• Ability to work in prescribed fire conditions that expose you to heat, smoke, ash, and other burned debris.

SCHEDULE:

• Start time is 7:00 A.M and occasionally 6:00 A.M.
• An average day is 8-10 hours. 12-hour days are sometimes necessary.
• Weekend work occasionally required. (1 – 2 times per month during peak seasons and prescribed burn season.