1

Restoration Ecologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Ecological Restoration Technician

Stow, OH · On-site

$15.25 - $19/hr

EnviroScience, Inc. Full time Seasonal The Ecological Restoration Technician will assist in the implementation and maintenance of ecological restoration projects. This role involves working on ...

Ecological Restoration Technician

Stow, OH · On-site

$15.25 - $19/hr

EnviroScience, Inc. Full time Seasonal The Ecological Restoration Technician will assist in the implementation and maintenance of ecological restoration projects. This role involves working on ...

The Restoration Ecologist works with River Partners' biology, field implementation, and development teams to identify, develop and execute riparian habitat restoration projects. Here are some of the ...

The Restoration Ecologist works with River Partners' biology, field implementation, and development teams to identify, develop and execute riparian habitat restoration projects. Here are some of the ...

The Restoration Monitoring Specialist coordinates and conducts ecological monitoring for numerous OMP restoration projects across the state of Ohio. They will find a culture that supports and ...

Showing results 21-40

Restoration Ecologist information

See salary details

$39.5K

$64.6K

$86.5K

How much do restoration ecologist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for restoration ecologist in the United States is $64,560.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,500.00 and $75,000.00 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.

What cities are hiring for Restoration Ecologist jobs?

Cities with the most Restoration Ecologist job openings:

What states have the most Restoration Ecologist jobs?

States with the most job openings for Restoration Ecologist jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Restoration Ecologist jobs?

For Restoration Ecologist jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Restoration Ecologist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,560 per year, or $31 per hour.

Natural Areas Ecologist

Dragonfly Pond Works

West Chicago, IL • On-site

$18 - $19.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Re-posted 20 days ago


Dragonfly Pond Works rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

56th of 283 rated repair and maintenance companies


Job description

Do you enjoy working outdoors and want to be part of a growing environmental company? Dragonfly Pond Works - ILM offers year-round and seasonal opportunities with long-term career potential. Join our "swarm" today! We are seeking passionate team members in the Greater Chicago area for the Natural Areas Ecologist role. This entry-level, field-based position supports habitat restoration through invasive species control, controlled burns, native seeding, and plant installation-ideal for individuals with a background in Restoration Ecology or a related field.Location: West Chicago, IL 60185Pay: $18- $19.50 an hour- Full-timeRequirementsMust be at least 21 years of age (unless seasonal)Must have a valid state driver's license. Driving record must meet the minimum requirements of our insurance company.Must possess at least a high school diploma and be actively pursuing a college degree in Ecology or a related field. Bachelor's or Associate Degree preferred.Must obtain an Illinois Department of Agriculture Commercial Pesticide Operators License within first 30 days of employment. Study materials and testing fees will be provided by ILM.Has the physical ability to execute invasive plant control (mechanical and chemical), native seeding, planting, and controlled burning. This includes standing, kneeling, bending, and walking for long periods of time on uneven terrain during all seasons and weather conditions.Has the ability to lift/carry up to 50 lbs.Has basic smartphone and computer skills.Has a basic understanding of Midwest ecological restoration practices and plant communities.Team-oriented and aligned with Dragonfly's values: Quality Focus, Takes Ownership, and Growth Oriented.Key Responsibilities:Control invasive plant species (via herbicide application or mechanical removal).Participate as a burn crew member during controlled burns.Restore or install native areas via native seeding and/or native plant installation.Assist in writing service reports to summarize daily activities.Perform all tasks safely and adhere to company safety policies.Conduct basic maintenance on small engine equipment and hand tools.Take direction from team members as well as crew leaders.Safely drive company vehicles to and from job sites, with or without a trailer.Safely operate specialized equipment (UTVs, Marsh Masters, Skid Steers, Brush Mowers).Accurately record timesheets and submit them to the Manager for approval.Follow company policies as stated in the Employee Handbook.Benefits & Perks:Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance401(k) matchingLife InsurancePet InsuranceFlexible Spending AccountsPaid Time Off Holiday PayEmployee Assistance ProgramReferral BonusProtective Footwear BonusDragonfly Pond Works is a leading environmental service company specializing in stormwater management. Since 2006, Dragonfly has provided routine maintenance and repairs on stormwater devices, lakes, ponds, wetlands, and underground facilities. We are proud to have a very respectful work environment and expect all our employees to adhere to the same standard throughout the organization.We are proudly an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin.
Job Posted by ApplicantPro

What Dragonfly Pond Works employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom