Find & Apply For Forest / Conservation Technician Jobs in Cockeysville, Maryland

Position Description Title:

Ecological Restoration Planting Crew Member Division/Team:

Construction Supervisor:

Director of Construction About Us Ecotone's mission is simple and powerful: we work with nature and people to restore ecological integrity. Position Summary The Ecological Restoration Planting Crew Member is responsible for installing native vegetation and supporting habitat restoration projects throughout the region. This position plays a critical role in implementing stream restoration, wetland restoration, reforestation, shoreline stabilization, and other ecological restoration projects. Crew Members work as part of a team to install/plant trees, shrubs, live stakes, plugs, grasses, and seed mixes while supporting erosion and sediment control and restoration construction activities. This role is ideal for individuals who enjoy physically demanding outdoor work, working with their hands, and making a direct impact on the environment. The ideal candidate is dependable, safety-conscious, hardworking, and committed to helping restore natural ecosystems while delivering high-quality work in the field. Key Responsibilities Planting & Restoration Operations Install native trees, shrubs, live stakes, plugs, grasses, and seed mixes according to project plans and specifications. Perform hand planting, hand seeding, and restoration installation activities on a variety of project sites. Operate seed drilling and other planting equipment when appropriate. Dig planting holes by hand or use augers and other equipment to prepare planting locations. Install tree shelters, stakes, guy wires, deer protection measures, and other plant protection systems. Perform mulching, watering, fertilizing, and post-installation maintenance activities. Inspect plant materials for quality, health, and compliance with project specifications. Transport, organize, and distribute plant materials throughout project sites. Assist with loading, unloading, and staging materials, tools, and equipment. Spread straw and other stabilization materials on restoration and construction sites. Report concerns regarding plant health, site conditions, safety, or project quality. Construction & Site Support Assist with installation and maintenance of erosion and sediment control practices. Support restoration construction crews during non-planting seasons as workload requires. Operate hand tools and small equipment safely and efficiently. Assist with site cleanup and material management activities. Follow project plans, specifications, and direction from supervisors and crew leaders. Maintain equipment and report maintenance needs as necessary. Support quality control efforts to ensure installations meet Ecotone standards. Safety & Teamwork Follow all company safety policies, procedures, and jobsite requirements. Participate in daily safety meetings and inspections. Maintain a safe and productive work environment for team members and subcontractors. Communicate effectively with crew members, foremen, and project managers. Demonstrate professionalism, accountability, and a positive attitude while representing Ecotone. Contribute to a collaborative team environment and support fellow crew members as needed. Minimum Qualifications Must be at least 18 years of age. Ability to perform physically demanding outdoor work on a daily basis. Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds regularly. Valid driver's license with a clean driving record. Reliable transportation to designated reporting locations. Ability to work safely in varying weather conditions and challenging terrain. Strong work ethic and willingness to learn. Ability to work effectively as part of a team. Willingness to travel and stay overnight in company-provided lodging when required. Ability to travel for projects up to 4-5 days per week. Preferred Qualifications Experience in landscaping, forestry, agriculture, nursery operations, environmental restoration, or construction. Knowledge of native plants and invasive species common to the Mid-Atlantic region. Experience planting trees, shrubs, plugs, or live stakes. Experience operating small equipment and power tools. Experience with erosion and sediment control practices. Working Conditions Crew Members work outdoors for the majority of their time and are exposed to varying weather conditions, including heat, cold, rain, humidity, and other seasonal conditions. Daily activities include walking long distances, working on uneven terrain, wetlands, stream corridors, restoration sites, and active construction sites. This position requires frequent lifting, bending, kneeling, digging, carrying materials, and repetitive physical activity. Travel and overnight stays may be required depending on project location. Overtime opportunities are available during peak planting and construction seasons. Benefits Include Competitive pay and opportunities for advancement Subsidized Health, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance 401(k) plan with company match Paid Time Off and 12 paid holidays Maternity/paternity leave Company-paid hotel accommodations and per diem for qualifying travel Training and development opportunities Opportunities for advancement into Foreman, Crew Leader, and Restoration Operations roles Per diem for overnight travel About Ecotone Ecotone is an innovative, Maryland-based company engaged in environmental restoration. The type of people who thrive at Ecotone are devoted to finding practical solutions to challenging problems and who think about solutions as long-term successes instead of short-term fixes. You'll fit in at Ecotone if you're not afraid to work hard, take initiative, and help leave the environment better than you found it. We work closely with one another and freely share what we know with colleagues, clients, and the communities we serve. We strive to exceed expectations while maintaining a culture built on trust, respect, safety, and continuous learning.