Field Lead and Irrigation Specialist

About Endemic Endemic Environmental Services is a science-first, conservation-driven ecological consulting and restoration company. Since 2009, we've grown into a 60+ person team dedicated to healing California's landscapes. From restoring rare habitats to supporting endangered species, our projects combine science, compliance, and culture. The Opportunity We're looking for a hands-on Irrigation Specialist / Field Lead to support our habitat restoration projects across Southern California. This role is field-based and ideal for someone with strong technical skills in irrigation system installation and maintenance who also enjoys leading crews and contributing directly to restoration success. Why This Role Matters The Irrigation Specialist / Field Lead plays a vital role in ensuring native plants thrive at our restoration sites. By keeping irrigation systems running efficiently, training crews, and supporting field operations, you'll directly contribute to successful restoration outcomes and help bring California landscapes back to life. What You'll Do Install, inspect, and maintain irrigation systems at native restoration sites. Troubleshoot leaks, valves, pumps, and controllers to keep water flowing efficiently. Monitor soil moisture and adjust irrigation schedules to support plant establishment. Lead and work alongside Restoration Field Technicians during daily field operations. Train field staff on proper tool usage, irrigation practices, safety procedures, and herbicide application methods. Perform irrigation repairs, scheduling, and system adjustments as needed in the field. Operate field equipment including line trimmers and other restoration tools. Apply herbicide in small quantities through spot spraying in accordance with project requirements and safety standards. Document irrigation activities and water use for compliance and reporting. Support restoration work including weeding, mulching, planting, and general site maintenance when irrigation needs are light. What We're Looking For Experience with drip, microspray, and temporary irrigation systems. Ability to troubleshoot irrigation and field issues quickly and efficiently. Experience leading crews or training field staff preferred. Comfortable working outdoors in variable weather and terrain. Experience operating line trimmers and restoration field equipment. Familiarity with herbicide application and safety procedures preferred. Valid driver's license and reliable transportation.

Bonus:

background in restoration, landscaping, horticulture, or knowledge of California native plants. Schedule & Pay Seasonal peaks may include early mornings or evening work. $23-28/hr for experienced specialists. $28-32/hr for highly experienced or lead-level candidates (design/compliance expertise). Why Join Endemic?

Make a Direct Impact Every project you work on contributes to healthier ecosystems and thriving California landscapes. Be Part of a Mission-Driven Team Work alongside ecologists, restoration specialists, and field crews who care as much about conservation as you do. Grow Your Skills Gain hands-on experience in ecological restoration, irrigation, herbicide application, and field leadership while expanding your career path. Belong to a Supportive Cxulture At Endemic, you're not just a contractor; you're part of a conservation-first, science-integrated community. Equal Opportunity Employer Endemic Environmental Services is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Pay:

$24.41 - $32.00 per hour

Benefits:

401(k) Employee assistance program Health insurance

Education:

High school or equivalent (Required)

Experience:

Irrigation:

5 years (Required)

Landscaping:

5 years (Required)

Supervising:

3 years (Required)

License/Certification:

QAL/QAL/Herbicide application (Preferred) Ability to

Commute:

Orange County, CA (Required)

Work Location:

In person