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Prairie Restoration Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Roeslein & Associates

Grant Director

$135.20K/yr

Through an $80M USDA-supported Advancing Markets for Producers (AMP) program, Roeslein is scaling solutions across prairie restoration, renewable natural gas (RNG), carbon and water markets, and next ...

State of Iowa

Wildlife Technician 1

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$41.10K - $60.17K/yr

Execute management plans for WMAs, including grass/forb seedings, prairie restoration, wetland restoration, tree plantings, and wildlife food plantings. Conduct seasonal water level monitoring and ...

Roeslein & Associates

Commercial Director, Nutrients

$125.20K - $156.50K/yr

... prairie restoration and sustainable land use. As part of this platform, the company is establishing a nutrient products business focused on converting outputs from anaerobic digestion into high-value ...

National Audubon Society

Restoration Intern

Chicago, IL · On-site

$19/hr

Restoration Interns play a critical role in the management and restoration of Forest Preserves of ... of prairie, savanna, woodland, wetland, and hemimarsh habitats by removing invasive species at ...

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How much do prairie restoration jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for prairie restoration in the United States is $18.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $19.95 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Prairie Restoration Specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Prairie Restoration Specialist, you need knowledge of native plant ecology, soil science, and habitat management, often supported by a degree in environmental science or a related field. Familiarity with GIS mapping software, land management tools, and sometimes certifications like pesticide applicator licenses are typically required. Strong communication, project management, and teamwork abilities help coordinate with landowners, volunteers, and agencies. These skills are vital to ensure effective restoration, biodiversity enhancement, and successful project outcomes.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in prairie restoration projects?

Professionals in prairie restoration often encounter challenges such as invasive species management, unpredictable weather conditions, and limited funding or resources for long-term maintenance. Collaboration with landowners, local agencies, and volunteers is crucial to overcome these hurdles and ensure project success. Additionally, balancing ecological goals with community interests requires strong communication and adaptive management skills.

What is prairie restoration?

Prairie restoration is the process of returning a piece of land to its original prairie ecosystem by reintroducing native plants, removing invasive species, and restoring natural ecological processes. This work helps rebuild habitats for wildlife, improve soil health, and increase biodiversity. Prairie restoration often involves careful planning, ongoing maintenance, and community involvement to ensure long-term success. Professionals in this field may work for conservation organizations, government agencies, or private landowners.

What is the difference between Prairie Restoration vs Ecological Restoration Specialist?

AspectPrairie RestorationEcological Restoration Specialist
CredentialsEnvironmental or related degree, certifications in native plant managementEnvironmental science degree, certifications in habitat restoration
Work EnvironmentGrasslands, prairies, conservation areasVarious ecosystems including forests, wetlands, grasslands
Employer & IndustryGovernment agencies, conservation organizations, land trustsEnvironmental consulting firms, government agencies, NGOs

Prairie Restoration focuses specifically on restoring native prairie ecosystems, emphasizing grassland management and native plant propagation. Ecological Restoration Specialists have a broader scope, working across multiple ecosystems to restore ecological health. While both roles require similar credentials and often work in conservation settings, Prairie Restoration is specialized in prairie habitats, whereas Ecological Restoration Specialists handle diverse environments.

More about Prairie Restoration jobs
What cities are hiring for Prairie Restoration jobs? Cities with the most Prairie Restoration job openings:
What states have the most Prairie Restoration jobs? States with the most job openings for Prairie Restoration jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Prairie Restoration jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Prairie Restoration jobs are:
Prairie Restoration jobs near you
Infographic showing various Prairie Restoration job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $38,090 per year, or $18.3 per hour.
Native Prairie Specialist

Native Prairie Specialist

David J. Frank Landscape

Milwaukee, WI

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

Apply today and work with dedicated colleagues just like you! We are a Great Place to Work: https://davidjfrank.com/agreatplacetowork/

Join the team at David J. Frank, one of the country's leading green industry companies with a reputation built since 1959. We are currently seeking full-time Native Prairie Specialist through our North Shore branch location in Glendale, WI for our Landscape Maintenance Department (LMD). The Native Prairie Maintenance Specialist is responsible for managing, maintaining, and restoring native prairie ecosystems using ecological best practices. This role involves identifying and controlling invasive species, promoting native plant diversity, monitoring habitat health, and ensuring compliance with restoration and conservation plans. The expert will work both independently and in teams to maintain high-quality prairie landscapes that support biodiversity, soil health, and sustainable ecosystems. We value sustainability, creativity, and the use of new technology in our work. This is full-time year-round employment. During the winter we do snow removal, training, and complete maintenance projects.

Qualifications
  • Native Prairie Specialists need a minimum 2–3 years of experience in prairie restoration, land stewardship, or habitat management.
  • Bachelor’s degree in Ecology, Environmental Science, Botany, Natural Resources, or a related field (or equivalent work experience).
  • Demonstrated knowledge of native prairie flora and fauna of the Upper Midwest.
  • Strong plant identification skills (especially for prairie and savanna species).
  • Experience with invasive species control techniques and herbicide application.
  • Wisconsin Pesticide Applicators License (Category 3.0 or similar).
  • S-130/190 Wildland Firefighter Certification or Prescribed Burn Training.
  • Chainsaw safety certification (preferred).
  • Competence with restoration tools and machinery.
  • Excellent record-keeping, communication, and teamwork skills.
  • Physical ability to perform outdoor labor in various weather conditions.
  • Bilingual - proficient/fluent in Spanish is a plus.
  • Required to possess and maintain valid, regular driver's license with an acceptable motor vehicle record (MVR).
  • Required to successfully complete a preplacement physical (to include lifting 50 pounds) and drug screen.
Responsibilities
  • Conduct routine maintenance of native prairie sites, including mowing, prescribed burning, brush cutting, and selective herbicide application.
  • Identify, monitor, and manage invasive and noxious weed species.
  • Operate and maintain equipment such as UTVs, brush saws, sprayers, tractors, and chainsaws.
  • Monitor prairie health through vegetation surveys, photo points, and ecological data collection.
  • Assist in planning and executing prescribed burns in coordination with local fire authorities and land management teams.
  • Develop and implement annual prairie management schedules.
  • Work with our Landscape Architects and CSRs to promote and develop sustainable landscapes.
  • Ensure compliance with environmental, safety, and regulatory standards.
  • Provide guidance to production staff and customer service representatives (CSRs).
  • Document maintenance activities and prepare reports for customer service representatives (CSRs) and stakeholders.
  • Work with holiday decoration installations and takedown teams as needed.
  • Provide a safe workplace for our customers during and after a snow event.
Compensation
  • Compensation for this position is based on experience.
  • Weekly pay.
  • Referral and retention incentives.
Benefits
  • Health, dental and vision insurance
  • 401(k) with match
  • Profit Sharing
  • Basic Life and voluntary Life Insurance
  • Paid training
  • Paid Time Off
  • Paid Holidays
  • Annual Uniform Allowance

David J. Frank is an Equal Opportunity Employer