Scientist I - Ecological Restoration

RES is looking for a Scientist I to join our team working around Lakeland, FL. 
As a Scientist I, you will play a lead role in the field execution and maintenance of mitigation bank and ecological restoration projects. Primary work duties will include mowing, planting native groundcover, spraying invasive plants, and controlled burning on mitigation banks in remote locations, as well as inspecting and supporting subcontractor work on these duties. You’ll operate a variety of equipment and heavy machinery, and ensure quality, safety, and environmental goals are met on every project. This is a hands-on position for someone who loves working outdoors and is passionate about restoring natural ecosystems.

Why You’ll Love This Job
You’ll see the tangible impact of your efforts on biodiversity, water quality, and climate resilience.
You’ll work across diverse landscapes, gaining hands-on experience in a variety of restoration projects.
You’ll be part of a supportive team that values safety, integrity, accountability, and excellence.
You’ll use cutting-edge restoration tools and techniques in the field.
 

A Day in the Life
As a Scientist I, your day starts by driving to our remote project sites to lead and/or supporting field crews in implementing critical restoration tasks like planting, seeding, erosion control, herbicide application, and invasive species removal. You’ll ensure these tasks are completed safely, efficiently, and in line with project goals.
You’ll be responsible for safely operating and maintaining various types of equipment, including trucks with trailers, UTVs, skid steers, chainsaws, backpack sprayers, and GPS units. Before work begins, you’ll facilitate daily safety meetings, model proper PPE usage, and consistently maintain a Samsara driving score above 70. Travel to and between project sites is significant.
Throughout the day, you’ll interpret project plans and ensure that all fieldwork aligns with planting plans, erosion and sediment control (E&S) plans, and invasive management standards. You’ll also train and mentor field staff on equipment operation, plant identification, herbicide handling, and restoration best practices.
In collaboration with Restoration Supervisors and Managers, you’ll contribute to daily and weekly planning to ensure smooth operations. You’ll also complete daily work logs, upload project photos, and communicate needs for materials, equipment, and personnel.
Depending on the season and region, you may participate in prescribed burns, which requires S130/S190 certifications. You should be prepared to work outdoors in all types of weather, lift up to 50 pounds, and navigate uneven or challenging terrain.

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

• High School Diploma or GED
• 2+ years of field experience in ecological restoration or related work
• Valid Commercial Pesticide Applicator License in applicable categories (or ability to obtain)
• Proficiency operating and maintaining field equipment, including trailers, skid steers, chainsaws, and backpack sprayers
• Proven experience conducting herbicide treatments and identifying native/invasive plant species
• Advanced use of GPS mapping tools
• Experience leading field crews and training others in restoration tasks
• Experience with prescribed fire and valid S130/S190 certifications (per region) Ability to travel a minimum 75% of the time throughout South and Central Florida
• Bilingual preferred - Spanish & English
• Ability to troubleshoot and perform maintenance on equipment such as chain saw, skid steer, 0-turns, welding, tractors

 
Physical requirements:
You must be able to lift 50lbs, walk over uneven surfaces and up/down hills, climb on construction equipment and work outdoors and in inclement weather
 
What Will Make You Stand Out
Demonstrated leadership in the field delegating tasks and mentoring less experienced crew members
Familiarity with RES projects or working within a performance-driven restoration company

You Will Thrive in This Job If
You are dependable, detail-oriented, and self-motivated
You enjoy working outdoors and don’t mind tough conditions or variable weather
You are safety-conscious and take pride in following and promoting safety protocols
You communicate clearly and respectfully across all levels of a team
You’re solutions-oriented and proactive in identifying and resolving challenges
You love working in a team environment and contributing to a shared mission