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Ecological Restoration Operator III

Hillsdale, Indiana, United States

At RES, we’re looking for purpose-driven individuals who are passionate about restoration and sustainability, and who want their work to make a lasting environmental impact. Our team members go above and beyond, bringing initiative, integrity, and a strong work ethic to every project. Collaboration is key—we thrive on teamwork, open communication, and diverse perspectives. In a field that constantly changes, we value those who are resilient, adaptable, and resourceful in the face of challenges. If you're intellectually curious, eager to learn, and ready to help restore ecosystems and protect natural resources, you’ll find your place here.

RES is looking for a Restoration Operator III to join our high-performing field team!

As a Restoration Operator III, you will take a lead role in executing complex ecological restoration tasks across multiple projects and sites. In this role, you'll operate and maintain specialized equipment, support safety and logistics planning, and help train and mentor other crew members in the field.

This is an advanced-level operator position, ideal for someone who thrives in the outdoors, enjoys hands-on ecological work, and has the experience to make smart, in-the-field decisions that support project goals.

Why You’ll Love This Job

  • You’ll operate unique, challenging equipment (tractors, skid steers, Marsh Masters, etc.) across diverse ecological landscapes
  • You’ll be a key voice in equipment planning, logistics, and field strategy
  • You’ll play a leadership role in mentoring field technicians and promoting safety and quality
  • You’ll work independently on critical restoration tasks while helping drive team success
  • You’ll be part of a safety-first, mission-driven team focused on environmental resilience

 

A Day in the Life

 

You’ll begin by reviewing the day’s restoration scope, conducting or attending a tailgate safety meeting, and checking your assigned equipment for field readiness. You may then load and transport equipment or jump directly into operating skid steers, tractors, or Marsh Masters with specialty attachments.

You’ll spend your day performing high-quality planting, seeding, invasive species control, and erosion prevention work, either solo or with a crew. You'll make real-time decisions in the field, troubleshoot issues, and communicate equipment or material needs to supervisors.

You’ll document your activities using GPS mapping tools or real-time tracking apps, help train others, and provide insight on project challenges or new opportunities.

 

Physical requirements:

  • Ability to lift 50 lbs, walk on uneven ground, and climb onto construction equipment

  • This position mobilizes and operates equipment on project sites primarily in IN, IL and MO.

We would like to talk to you if you have many of the following:

 

  • High School Diploma or GED
  • 5+ years of ecological restoration experience
  • 3+ years of field equipment operator experience
  • CDL Class A License
  • Valid Commercial Pesticide Applicator License (applicable categories)
  • Proven ability to maintain and repair field equipment, including track resets
  • Experience training others in equipment operation and restoration techniques
  • Familiarity with GPS mapping and progress tracking tools
  • Strong plant ID skills (native and invasive species)
  • Ability to read and execute work from project plans, specs, and maps
  • Experience estimating time, labor, and materials for specific tasks

 

What would make you stand out?

 

  • Experience leading or training other operators and restoration crew members
  • Proficiency with restoration methods like herbicide application, seeding, erosion control, etc.

You’ll thrive in this role if :

 

  • You take pride in high-quality, detail-oriented work
  • You work well independently and enjoy teaching others
  • You’re safety-minded, proactive, and solution-oriented in the field
  • You are comfortable making in-field calls that align with project plans, goals, and budgets
  • You work well in cross-functional teams.

 

Please note that the “Day in the Life” section is not intended to be an exhaustive list of job duties, but rather a representative snapshot of typical responsibilities and work experiences at RES.

RES is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a VEVRAA Federal Contractor. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

 

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