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Habitat Restoration Program Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$68K - $92K/yr

Experience leading field crews, coordinating subcontractors, and directing project activities ... We participate in the E-Verify Employment Verification Program. HELIX is an equal opportunity ...

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Habitat Restoration Program Director information

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$32K

$109.1K

$183K

How much do habitat restoration program director jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for habitat restoration program director in the United States is $109,055.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $85,000.00 and $116,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a habitat restoration program director do?

A Habitat Restoration Program Director oversees the planning, implementation, and management of projects aimed at restoring and preserving natural habitats. They coordinate with staff, partner organizations, and stakeholders to develop strategies, secure funding, and ensure projects meet ecological and regulatory goals. The director also monitors project progress, evaluates outcomes, and often represents the organization in public or policy discussions about conservation. Their work is crucial for recovering degraded ecosystems and supporting biodiversity.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a habitat restoration program director, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Habitat Restoration Program Director, you need a strong background in ecology, environmental science, or natural resource management, typically supported by a relevant degree and experience in project leadership. Familiarity with GIS software, restoration planning tools, permitting processes, and environmental regulations is commonly required. Exceptional skills in communication, stakeholder engagement, and team leadership set top candidates apart. These abilities are essential for designing effective restoration projects, securing funding, and successfully coordinating diverse teams and partners.

What are some common challenges faced by a habitat restoration program director during project implementation?

One of the key challenges for a Habitat Restoration Program Director is managing multiple stakeholders with differing priorities, including government agencies, private landowners, and community groups. Additionally, balancing project timelines with environmental permitting processes and unpredictable field conditions can be demanding. Directors often need to adapt plans based on ecological assessments, weather impacts, and available funding, requiring strong project management and communication skills. Successful candidates typically thrive in dynamic environments and are adept at problem-solving and collaborative leadership.

What is the difference between Habitat Restoration Program Director vs Habitat Restoration Specialist?

AspectHabitat Restoration Program DirectorHabitat Restoration Specialist
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Environmental Science, Ecology, or related field; project management experienceDegree in Environmental Science, Biology, or related field; technical skills in habitat restoration
Work EnvironmentOversees projects, manages teams, collaborates with stakeholdersConducts fieldwork, implements restoration activities, collects data
Employer & Industry UsageNonprofits, government agencies, consulting firmsEnvironmental organizations, conservation agencies, research institutions

The Habitat Restoration Program Director focuses on managing and overseeing restoration projects, coordinating teams, and strategic planning. In contrast, the Habitat Restoration Specialist is primarily involved in hands-on fieldwork and technical implementation. Both roles require relevant environmental credentials, but the director role emphasizes leadership and project management, while the specialist role emphasizes technical skills and field experience.

What are popular job titles related to Habitat Restoration Program Director jobs?

For Habitat Restoration Program Director jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Habitat Restoration Program Director job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $109,055 per year, or $52.4 per hour.

Habitat Restoration Technician

Irvine, CA

HELIX ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING, INC.
Environmental Consulting Services • 11 - 50 employees

$20 - $24/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

Description

HELIX Environmental Planning, Inc. (HELIX), a growing, California-based employee-owned environmental consulting firm, is seeking an experienced, highly motivated Habitat Restoration Technician with critical thinking skills and a strong work ethic to join our team in Orange County. HELIX offers biological and cultural resources, regulatory permitting, landscape architecture, acoustical, air quality, habitat restoration and GIS services to both the public and private sectors. 


Why work at HELIX? 


Employee-owned since 2004

Offers a hybrid work schedule with flexibility of working in-office and remotely

Invested in professional growth and employee development and training

Recognized for our workplace practices, employee wellness programs, and community contributions

Named as one of the 2023 Best Firms to Work For by ZweigGroup


HELIX also offers a competitive benefits package, that includes:


Robust Health Coverage (Medical, Dental, Vision) for employee and dependents

Life /Long Term Disability Insurance

Paid Sick Time

Bonus Program

Wellness Program

Employee Stock Ownership Plan participation

401K participation with employer contributions


Habitat Restoration Technician Duties: 


The Habitat Restoration Technician duties include working on public and private job sites removing non-native plant species, mowing/weed whipping, herbicide application, plant installation, irrigation installation, and various other tasks as directed by the Habitat Restoration Lead and Habitat Restoration Supervisor. Habitat Restoration Technicians will participate in daily tailgate meetings and periodic training sessions. Habitat Restoration Technicians will also travel out-of-town as needed for projects on occasion. This is not a landscaping company or position.


The ideal candidate for this position will have strong organizational skills, as well as good writing and communication skills.

Hourly wages will be based on qualifications and experience. Starting hourly rates will range between $20 to $24 per hour and will be commensurate with the candidate's relevant experience. Habitat Restoration Technician positions are available in 3 levels and candidates will be placed in the most appropriate level based on previous experience. 


PM21

#habitatrestoration #landscape #habitatrestorationtechnician #entrylevel #labor 


HELIX is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and an inclusive work environment. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply regardless of gender, race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), parental status, national origin, disability, age, genetic information (including family medical history), political affiliation, military service or veteran status. These protections extend to all management practices and decisions, including recruitment and hiring, appraisal systems, promotions, training, and career development programs.



Requirements

Minimum Requirements for Habitat Restoration Technician: 

  • Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs.      and stand for extended periods of time
  • Must be physically able and willing      to work in varying terrain (including uneven surfaces and steep slopes)      and weather conditions

Additional skills considered a plus: 

  • Valid California Driver's License with a clean driving record over      the last 3 years
  • 1+ years of general labor and/or landscaping experience
  • Knowledge of native plants
  • Irrigation experience
  • Planting experience
  • Ability to use a smart phone and tablet for reporting purposes