Project Level Restoration Ecologist

About the role

SWCA is seeking a Project Level Restoration Ecologist for SWCA’s Michigan operations to contribute to the growth of our ecological restoration practice. The ideal candidate will be interested in developing a long-term consulting career that combines high-level technical expertise with commercial acumen and leadership. Prior experience in leading field crews is required. Prior experience is preferred in the planning, design, and implementation of invasive plant management programs in upland and wetland environments. Prior experience is preferred within one of the following areas: invasive species management; erosion control techniques; habitat conservation planning and restoration; bank restoration; and the implementation of ecological restoration in wetland or other sensitive resource areas for public and private clients. This is a regular status, full time position, with benefits. Candidates must live within driving distance of our New Buffalo, MI office. Under this requisition, we can hire the following: Assistant Project Restoration Ecologist – typically with up to two (2) years of relevant experience and expertise, with three (3) years of related experience preferred; Associate Project Restoration Ecologist – typically with up to three (3) years of relevant experience and expertise, with five (5) years of related experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Conduct invasive species inventories, habitat assessments, and ecological restoration planning to guide project strategies.
• Implement restoration activities such as seeding, planting, soil stabilization, erosion control, wetland enhancement, and long-term habitat management.
• Apply herbicides for invasive plant management, ensuring environmental compliance and best practices.
• Oversee and support field crews, ensuring safe and efficient execution of invasive species management and restoration tasks.
• Take responsibility for team safety and anticipate potential safety hazards.

Requirements

• Minimum of two (2) years of professional experience supporting ecological restoration projects.
• Previous experience in the management of invasive vegetative species.
• Possess a valid Indiana, Michigan, or Illinois State Herbicide Applicator’s license.
• Experience leading teams in ecological restoration or similar work (landscaping, wetland construction, manual invasive plant management, etc.).
• Ability to travel up to 60% of the time