Entry Level Ecologist Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

Ecological Restoration Field Technicians

Merjent, Inc. (Merjent) is seeking Ecological Restoration Field Technicians to join our growing team in Northeast Wisconsin. Positions will be field based and focus on completing restoration work such as habitat enhancement through native plantings, seedings, invasive species control, and stream/shoreline/slope stabilization using erosion control devices. Project work will vary in natural communities from prairie, wetland, and woodland to in-water work. Work may also include infrastructure-related vegetation installations and enhancement including solar facility, utility rights-of-way, and roadside. These positions will be based out of Merjent's Freedom, Wisconsin office, but will require occasional overnight travel. Some projects will, at times, require work on weekends, multiple-week shifts on the road, and regular work weeks in excess of 40 hours.

The hourly wage for this position is based on qualifications and experience; entry-level starting at $20.00 per hour. Weekly overtime opportunities during the months of April - October. Multiple advancement and growth opportunities.

The Merjent difference is real – it's based on a commitment to our values, which guide us in how we work with clients and each other. Our commitment to quality and professional integrity encompasses everything we do. We are proud of our reputation for delivering quality work and building long-term, trusting relationships with our clients and with regulatory agencies.

Responsibilities

• Executing in-the-field restoration project work under the direction of a Project Manager.
• Installing native plant species including trees, shrubs, plugs, and seed; installing erosion control devices; applying herbicide; mowing; or any other activities necessary in the execution of restoration projects.
• Operating and maintaining tools and equipment necessary for the execution of restoration projects.
• Daily documentation and reporting of field activities.
• Understanding and adhering to health and safety plans.
• Performing other duties as assigned.

Qualifications and Experience

• Associates or bachelor's degree in natural resources, life sciences, etc. OR +3 years of landscaping-based experience.
• Operating various types of equipment and power tools including trucks, trailers, UTVs, boats, tractors, skid steers, pumps, chainsaws, brush cutters, backpack and skid sprayers, small engines/pumps, etc.
• Basic understanding of above-listed equipment and power tool troubleshooting and maintenance.
• Ability to lift 50 lbs. and perform repetitive, physical work in a range of weather and field conditions including rough and sometimes steep terrain.
• Ability to conduct field work for +10 hours per day, work weekends, multiple-week shifts on the road, and regularly work in excess of 40 hours per week.
• Experience in native and invasive species plant identification.
• Experience with herbicide, including selection, calibration, application types, and application equipment.
• Experience in map reading and basic GIS data entry.
• Detail-oriented with oral communication and problem-solving skills.
• Standard First Aid and CPR (or ability to obtain).
• Commercial Pesticide Applicators Certifications in Categories 5.0 and 6.0 (or ability to obtain).
• Valid driver's license and acceptable driving record.
• Active Fed Med Card or Class A Commercial Driver's License (or ability to obtain).
• Ability to pass a pre-employment drug screen.