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Restoration Ecologist Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Stantec

Ecosystem Restoration Technician

Mc Cordsville, IN · On-site

$15.50 - $19.25/hr

Demonstrating skills and experience with field tasks such as plant identification, invasive species control methods, ecological restoration techniques, and natural area assessments. * Lead field ...

Stantec

Ecosystem Restoration Technician

Mc Cordsville, IN · On-site

$16.75 - $21.75/hr

Demonstrating skills and experience with field tasks such as plant identification, invasive species control methods, ecological restoration techniques, and natural area assessments. * Lead field ...

Stantec

Heavy Equipment Operator

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$62K - $91K/yr

Stantec is seeking a Project Heavy Equipment Operator- Ecological Construction to implement construction work in the ecological restoration fields. This position requires implementing a high-quality ...

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All JobsRestoration Ecologist JobsRestoration Ecologist Jobs in Indiana

Restoration Ecologist information

See Indiana salary details

$37.6K

$61.4K

$82.3K

How much do restoration ecologist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for restoration ecologist in Indiana is $61,432.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,200.00 and $71,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a restoration ecologist do?

A Restoration Ecologist works to restore and rehabilitate degraded, damaged, or destroyed ecosystems and habitats. They assess environmental issues, develop restoration plans, and implement strategies such as replanting native vegetation or controlling invasive species. Their goal is to return ecosystems to a healthy, functioning state, often collaborating with landowners, government agencies, and conservation organizations. Restoration Ecologists also monitor restored sites to ensure long-term sustainability and ecological balance.

What does a restoration ecologist do?

A restoration ecologist works to repair an ecosystem or natural habitat that has been damaged by humans, especially through industrial processes. Your duties in this career include designing and implementing environment rehabilitation projects and educating the public on conservation and ecology. The areas you focus on repairing include soil, water, and air quality, or you can choose a specific specialization. Other responsibilities include assessing areas that require remediation, identifying causes of damage, working in a lab to determine chemical contamination and severity, and conducting research on how to clean up various types of waste using natural processes such as plants or more extreme strategies. You collaborate with other industry experts, especially for complicated cases.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a restoration ecologist?

To thrive as a Restoration Ecologist, you need a strong background in ecology, environmental science, and habitat restoration, usually demonstrated by a relevant degree. Familiarity with GIS software, ecological monitoring tools, and environmental permitting processes is often required. Strong project management, teamwork, and communication skills help facilitate collaboration with stakeholders and convey complex ecological concepts. These competencies are crucial for designing, implementing, and evaluating successful ecological restoration projects that meet both environmental and regulatory standards.

What are some common challenges restoration ecologists face when implementing habitat restoration projects?

Restoration Ecologists often encounter challenges such as balancing ecological goals with budgetary and timeline constraints, managing invasive species, and addressing conflicting stakeholder interests. Field conditions can be unpredictable, requiring flexibility and creative problem-solving. Additionally, long-term monitoring and adaptive management are crucial, as restored habitats may respond differently than anticipated. Collaboration with landowners, government agencies, and multidisciplinary teams is essential to navigate these complexities and achieve successful project outcomes.

What is the difference between Restoration Ecologist vs Environmental Scientist?

AspectRestoration EcologistEnvironmental Scientist
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Ecology, Environmental Science, or related field; certifications like Certified EcologistBachelor's or Master's in Environmental Science, Biology, or related; certifications vary
Work EnvironmentFieldwork in ecosystems, wetlands, forests; project sitesLaboratories, field sites, policy settings
Industry UsageFocused on restoring damaged ecosystems and habitatsBroader environmental issues, research, policy, and consulting

Restoration Ecologists specialize in restoring ecosystems and habitats, often working directly in the field. Environmental Scientists have a broader scope, including research, policy, and environmental assessment. While both roles require similar educational backgrounds, Restoration Ecologists focus more on hands-on ecological restoration projects.

Is there a high demand for restoration ecologists?

Restoration ecologists are in increasing demand as environmental conservation and habitat restoration efforts grow globally. The field offers opportunities in government agencies, consulting firms, and non-profit organizations, often requiring skills in ecological assessment, project management, and environmental regulations.
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Restoration Ecologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Restoration Ecologist job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,432 per year, or $29.5 per hour.

Environmental Field Equipment Operator (Ecological Restoration)

Resource Environmental Solutions LLC

Hillsdale, IN • On-site

$17.75 - $23.75/hr

Per diem

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

As a Environmental Field Equipment Operator, you will play a vital role in implementing field-level restoration activities that help restore wetlands, streams, and habitats across the region. You'll operate specialized equipment, contribute to high-impact ecological projects, and be part of a team that values safety, stewardship, and teamwork. 

Significant travel may be required for some projects. Travel throughout the Midwest with overnight stays of 2-4-night periods will be required for some job sites. Per Diem and hotel stay provided.

Why You'll Love This Job
  • You'll spend your days outside, working on diverse natural landscapes and seeing real environmental improvements take shape under your hands.
  • You'll work with passionate people who care about ecological impact and community restoration.
  • You'll operate cool equipment, solve field challenges, and learn something new almost every day.
  • You'll be part of a mission that matters-restoring ecosystems, protecting biodiversity, and contributing to a more sustainable future

A Day in the Life

In the field, as Environmental Equipment Field Operator, you will operate a variety of equipment, including excavators (10,000-60,000 lbs.), skid steers with standard and forestry attachments, small to medium-sized tractors (40-125 hp) with various implements, ATVs, zero-turn lawn mowers, and equipment used for herbicide application. Since you will be servicing the equipment you use, mid-level ability to troubleshoot and diagnose field equipment issues is essential, along with knowledge of auto, truck, and construction equipment maintenance schedules, fluid requirements, and basic diagnostic processes.

Additionally, you will operate chainsaws, gas-powered brush cutters, and augers and calibrate native seed drills and herbicide preparation equipment. Using mapping equipment and apps to track field progress will be part of your daily routine.

Some of the main tasks our Environmental Equipment Field Operators perform are the following:

  • Invasive brush clearing, tree felling, planting, seeding, erosion, and sediment controls
  • Maintenance and mowing of solar fields through equipment operation and herbicide application.
  • Restoration activities include identifying and protecting native species, identifying and controlling invasive species, and site clearing.
  • Loading plant and project materials at nurseries and other suppliers

Physical requirements to the Environmental Equipment Field Operator job:

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

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

  • High School Diploma or GED
  • At least 1 year of experience in ecological restoration, landscaping, agriculture, or related work
  • Experience with the repair and maintenance of small engines and equipment
  • Ability to understand the project plans, details, and specifications.
  • Valid Commercial Pesticide Applicator License (state-specific, or ability to obtain)
  • Valid Driver's License

What would make you stand out?

  • S-130/190 Burn Certification or experience with prescribed burns (region-specific)
  • Knowledge of native and invasive plant species and ecological restoration methods
  • Knowledge of appropriate mixing and application of herbicides for managing invasive species.
  • Knowledge of proper planting and seeding techniques.
  • Experience leading a prescribed burn line
  • Class-A commercial driver's license  

You'll thrive in this role if you are:

  • A strong communicator who works well independently and within a team
  • Self-motivated with the ability to solve problems in the field with minimal supervision
  • Excited by hands-on work that contributes to ecological restoration and conservation

Apply