Restoration Manager I

About the role

At RES, we're looking for purpose-driven individuals who are passionate about restoration and sustainability, and who want their work to make a lasting environmental impact. Our team members go above and beyond, bringing initiative, integrity, and a strong work ethic to every project. Collaboration is key-we thrive on teamwork, open communication, and diverse perspectives.

In a field that constantly changes, we value those who are resilient, adaptable, and resourceful in the face of challenges. If you're intellectually curious, eager to learn, and ready to help restore ecosystems and protect natural resources, you'll find your place here.

As a Restoration Manager I, you will play a critical role in ensuring our projects are delivered safely, efficiently, and to the highest ecological standards. You'll be hands-on in the field-operating equipment, managing invasive species, and conducting QA/QC-while also leading crews, managing safety initiatives, and supporting project managers with scheduling and reporting.

This is a great opportunity if you love being outdoors, thrive in a leadership role, and want to directly impact the success of restoration projects that improve the environment and communities.

The ability and willingness to travel up to 50% with overnight stay is required. Hotel and Per Diem provided. Indiana, Southern and Central Illinois, Eastern and Northern Missouri

What Your Day-to-Day Will Look Like

• Lead daily tailgate safety meetings, coach team members, and ensure compliance with all safety policies.
• Operate, maintain, and train others on equipment and vehicles (skid steers, tractors, UTVs, etc.).
• Develop site-specific ERP plans and ensure consistent safety reporting, inspections, and hazard remediation.
• Implement and manage invasive species and herbicide management programs, including training others in plant ID and application.
• Support prescribed burn activities (where required), ensuring compliance and safe execution.
• Oversee subcontractors and vendors, ensuring work quality, compliance, and corrective actions where needed.
• Collaborate with Project and Operations Managers to schedule and track construction and maintenance tasks, manage resources, and maintain records.
• Complete administrative tasks including timecards, expense reports, project expense tracking, and compliance reporting.
• Provide leadership by training, hiring, orienting, and evaluating crew members.
• Engage with clients, stakeholders, and the public to communicate project updates and participate in meetings.

We Would Like to Talk to You If You Have Many of the Following

• Bachelor's degree in applied sciences, natural resources, or a related field (or equivalent construction/restoration experience).
• 5+ years of ecological restoration experience.
• Valid Commercial Pesticide Applicator License (applicable categories).
• CPR, AED, and First Aid certification.
• Valid DOT medical card.
• S130/190 wildfire certifications (if required by region).
• Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, mapping software, and GPS systems.
• Strong knowledge of ecological restoration practices, invasive species management, and QA/QC processes.

You Will Thrive in This Role If You

• Lead with a safety-first mindset and coach others to do the same.
• Enjoy being outdoors, operating equipment, and solving problems in the field.
• Communicate clearly and effectively across all levels-from crew members to clients.
• Are detail-oriented and thrive at managing compliance, reporting, and documentation.
• Can balance hands-on field work with administrative and leadership responsibilities.
• Excel at building, training, and motivating a team.

Additional information

Please note that the "Day in the Life" section is not intended to be an exhaustive list of job duties, but rather a representative snapshot of typical responsibilities and work experiences at RES.