Restoration Technician Job at the Pizzo Group

The Pizzo Group is growing and have several openings for Restoration Technicians based in Romeoville, South Barrington, and Chicago.

If interested, send your resume via email to info@pizzo.info


More Information on Restoration Technician:

We are looking for a number of Restoration Technicians (we’re also looking for Restoration Technician Team Leaders – send us your resume) across the Chicago area. Join an award-winning team and start your career in ecosystem restoration and doing something great for the environment.

Restoration Technician Duties and Responsibilities:

Entry level position performing extensive fieldwork on potentially difficult terrain and during adverse weather conditions. Work will include loading and unloading material and equipment from trucks and other vehicles; operating vehicles and other large equipment; performing brush or tree clearing and other site preparation activities using small engine equipment and hand tools; the installation of plants, seed and erosion control materials; stewardship activities including mowing, hand pulling, herbicide application and prescribed fire. Work requires the handling of herbicides, fertilizers, oils, fuels and other various chemical products.

Hours:
The normal work schedule for all employees is 8 to 10 hours a day, Monday through Friday and occasionally Saturday and/or Sunday. Supervisors will advise employees of the times their schedules will normally begin and end. Staffing needs, weather conditions, and operational demands often necessitate variations in starting and ending times as well as variations in the total hours that may be scheduled each day and week.

Travel:

Light – Moderate, based on the project location in the Midwest, may require occasional extended overnight stays in remote locations.

Daily Responsibilities:

• Adhere to company guidelines and policies
• Represent the Pizzo brand of quality and professionalism in your daily work and interaction with others
• Apply training to daily work
• Carry out various laborious duties as directed by your Supervisor in a safe and efficient manner
• Maintain a clean and safe work space at all times
• Maintain issued clothing, equipment and tools in good working order, provide timely replacements or repairs as required
  • Report lost, damaged or malfunctioning equipment and tools to your Supervisor at the end of each work day (even if you already repaired it)
  • Accurately keep track of your daily material usage
  • Report daily material usage to your Supervisor at the end of each work day
  • At the end of each work day prepare vehicles, trailers, equipment, tools and materials/supplies so that they are cleaned, repaired, re-stocked, organized and ready for the next day’s operations
  • At the end of each work day clean and organize the facility

Periodic Responsibilities:

• Attend required training sessions, certification programs or participate in self-study as required
• Under direct supervision, accurately measure and mix herbicides for application, two-cycle fuel and drip torch fuel
• Prepare, inspect, maintain and operate vehicles and/or other machinery as directed
• Perform other duties as assigned

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs):

• Functional in the English language (written and spoken)
• Functional in basic mathematical functions (addition, subtraction, division, multiplication, decimals and fractions)
• Functional in basic measurement units (inches, feet, ounces, pounds), techniques and tools (tape measures, measuring wheel)
• Completed the following Pizzo Training Programs:
  • Orientation/Drivers Training
  • Ecological Concepts
  • Natural Areas Installation
  • Natural Areas Stewardship
  • Herbicide Mixing
  • Herbicide Sprayer Operation
  • Plant Identification – Basic
  • Chainsaw Operation & Safety
  • Plant ID Level I passing w/85% or better
  • 10 Invasive/Weed ID Test
  • 10 Herbaceous Native ID Test
  • 10 Woody Native ID Test

Required Certifications:

• Valid State of Illinois driver’s license
• State of Illinois Pesticide Operators License
• Current in First Aid/CPR
• I100/S130/S190 firefighter certification
• OSHA 10-hour

Expected Physical Demands:

Exert up to one-hundred pounds (100 lbs.) of force occasionally, up to fifty pounds (50 lbs.) of force frequently and/or up to twenty pounds (20 lbs.) of force constantly to move or carry objects; bend the body downward and forward with bent legs at the knees to come to rest on knee or knees; bend the body downward and forward by bending legs and spine; extend hand(s) and arm(s) in any direction, seizing, holding, grasping, turning, or otherwise working with hand or hands.

Display finger dexterity in picking, pinching or otherwise working primarily with fingers rather than with the whole hand or arm as in handling and perceiving attributes of objects (such as size, shape, temperature or texture); ability to sit in a stationary position for extended periods of time (riding in a vehicle); ability to express or exchange ideas by means of the spoken word accurately, quickly and loudly; ability to hear and perceive the nature of sounds; observe an area that can be seen up and down or to right or left while eyes are fixed on a given point.

Demonstrate clarity of three-dimensional vision with the ability to judge distances and spatial relationships so as to see objects where and as they actually are; and the ability to identify and distinguish colors.

Expected Work Conditions:

Work may be performed indoors or outdoors throughout the year and may yield exposure to hot, cold, wet, humid or windy conditions caused by the weather; exposure to non-weather related extreme temperatures or conditions; exposure to wildfire; exposure to overhead or falling hazards such as tree branches in a woodland; exposure to poisonous plants and/or wildlife; contact with water or other liquids; exposure to loud and/or extended noises; exposure to fumes, smoke, noxious odors, dusts, mists, gases and allergens that may affect the respiratory system, eyes or the skin; and possible exposure to toxic or caustic chemicals.

Work may be performed in or near bodies of water, on rough terrain, on or near steep slopes. Work may require working with or around sharp objects, machinery with moving parts and/or vehicles.

New Course - NNGO 498: Leadership Basics for Alternative Breaks

Job Opportunity with the Midwest Museum of Natural History

The Midwest Museum of Natural History is looking for a part-time Exhibits and Collections Curator. 

Grow-Mobile Volunteers Needed - May-August 2018

Soil Intern Position at the Morton Arboretum

The Morton Arboretum is recruiting a fixed-term, full-time Soil Ecology Research Intern to aid in assessing the effects of prescribed burning and overstory thinning on soils in oak ecosystems throughout the Chicago Wilderness (N Indiana, NE Illinois, and SE Wisconsin). This position is funded under a Center for Tree Science grant, and the position has an expected duration of 4 months.

Essential Functions:

• Provide support to a scientist for the implementation of research and related projects.
• Assist with data and sample collection, sample processing, data analysis, and record keeping on research and related projects.
• Operate and maintain laboratory equipment, and perform routine lab maintenance by keeping laboratory and field equipment in good working order.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

Applicants should have a strong background in ecosystem ecology, and/or soil science with both lab and field experience. A Bachelor’s degree in Ecology, Natural Resources, or a related field is required. Ability to conduct field and laboratory research is required. Proficiency with database, spreadsheet, and statistical/graphics computer programs, Gmail, and other Google applications beneficial. Must possess a valid driver’s license, which is subject to insurability and an annual Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) report. Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and Gmail and other Google applications beneficial.

For more information and to apply, visit: https://careers.hireology.com/themortonarboretum/192894/description

 

Course: The Geography of Disease and Health

Trip to Field Museum

Bike Sharing Program Kickoff Event

Those looking to get around campus easily and affordably will soon have a convenient option as the university debuts a new bike share program. Red bicycles will be parked across campus for quick and convenient rentals beginning Tuesday, April 24.

A kickoff event for the new service will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Promenade Lounge of the Holmes Student Center, featuring games, raffles, food and bike rides

A group ride-out event will take place at 1 p.m. (Registration is required at the booth before 1 p.m.)

The new bike share program is offered through a campus contract with VeoRide and will allow users to rent a bike by using a smartphone app available via the Apple Store or Google Play.

For more information, see go.niu.edu/bike-share. 

 Tuesday, April 24 at 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM

 Holmes Student Center, Promenade Lounge 
600 Lucinda Ave, DeKalb, IL 60115

BIOS 412 - Mycology

BIOS 412 - Mycology is added as a methods course option for students in the Biodiversity and Environmental Restoration emphasis. The course is 50/50 lab lecture. You will learn about mushrooms when in nature. The professor does a lot with edibles and local species and she just updated the curriculum!

40 Hour Hazard Waste Operations and Emergency Response Training

Application HAZWOPER can be found: http://niu.edu/geology/academics/undergraduate/hazwoper.shtml

Deadline May 7th

This course is required for:

-Workers at sites with frequent exposure to hazardous materials
-Workers with potential exposure to hazardous materials above permissible limits, which includes field personnel at environmental and engineering consulting firms, state and federal government agencies, analytical laboratories, and any subcontracting firms that perform work on locations with potential exposures to hazardous materials (from gas stations to Superfund sites).

Having this training before you interview can give you a huge advantage over other applicants, as it often saves the company/agency at least a week of labor time and at least that much in salary and overhead costs.

What will be taught in this course?

-Regulatory overview
-Hazardous materials toxicology
-Chemical and physical hazards
-Identification systems
-Respiratory protection
-Chemical protective equipment
-Decontamination practices
-Site safety plans
-Field safety and operational procedures
-Field exercises (hands-on)

Course Design

May 14-18

Monday-Thursday: Morning lectures/discussion and afternoon/evening hands-on activities

Friday: Hands-on practical group exercises based on the topics covered on Monday-Thursday

Instruction is provided by John Guglielmo of ESI 2001, with 20 years of training and hands-on experience with emergency response departments.

Values-Based Investing Workshop

EPA Internships for Summer 2018

With the Underground Injection Control Program this summer:

 

To be eligible to participate as a volunteer, students must be enrolled at least half-time in an accredited high school, trade school, technical or vocational school, a junior or community college, a four-year college or university, or any other accredited educational institution.  Interns must be “continuing students” enrolled in an educational institution for the semester following their time at EPA.

How to Apply

Send:

• An official copy of your transcript & proof of enrollment
• A copy of your resume

 

To:

Steve Jann, Chief

Underground Injection Control Branch

jann.stephen@epa.gov

 

The internships are at the EPA office at 77 W. Jackson Blvd, Chicago.  These are unpaid volunteer internships.

 

Elmhurst Garden Club Scholarship - Updated

Seasonal Position at the Shedd Aquarium

There is an opening for a seasonal, part-time Nature Outpost Stewardship Coordinator to support our Shedd-Urban Rivers partnership.   The job posting is on Shedd’s website. Jaclyn Wegner (Director for Conservation Action and Stewardship Programs, jwegner@sheddaquarium.org) would be the supervisor and could answer questions from interested applicants but they should otherwise apply through Shedd’s HR portal.

 

Job Description:

The Nature Outpost Stewardship Coordinator will coordinate and facilitates pilot programming in partnership with Urban Rivers. These Programs aim to connect the public the Chicago River and other local natural areas through hands-on stewardship, plant and wildlife monitoring, and other educational opportunities. The Coordinator will be responsible for leading programs, organizing and ordering program supplies, developing promotional strategies, and communicating with program participants and partner organizations.

Duties & Responsibilities:

• Demonstrate commitment to Shedd’s vision, mission and values.
• Program Coordination
  • With director of conservation action, create plan for programming, partnership development, and communications.
  • Develop and deliver all aspects of programming including registration, facilitation, evaluation, communication with participants, and managing supplies and equipment.
  • Develop programming to promote Shedd conservation messaging and also meets the diverse needs of different audiences.
  • Track all waivers and metrics for achieving program goals in an organized and timely manner.  Communicate metrics to internal stakeholders and partner organizations as needed.
  • Support collaborative efforts with other Shedd departments, including but not limited to the Corporate Relations, Learning, and Guest Engagement teams.
  • Represent Shedd’s stewardship programs for internal and external audiences.
  • Foster key partner relationships and represent Shedd’s best interests, especially with Urban Rivers, Friends of the Chicago River, MWRD, and others.
• Program Facilitation
  • Facilitate and independently lead programs related to the partnership with Urban Rives.
  • Execute program operations, including supply management and logistics, program set-up and breakdown, driving a Shedd and/or rental vehicle to program locations, activity instruction, and participant monitoring and engagement.
  • Ensure best practices and safety protocols are followed at all times during workdays to ensure fun and safe experience.
• Communications
  • Serve as Shedd spokesperson for media and other public appearances as assigned. 
  • Create compelling content for Shedd’s blog and social media channels.
  • Build expertise on local environmental issues, applied conservation and habitat restoration, general sustainable practices, and other related topics.
  • Research and share related news on these topics with Shedd teams including Conservation Action and Nature Outpost team.

• As needed, support other aspects of Shedd’s conservation work including other conservation stewardship workdays, conservation research projects, and others.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Education:
  • Bachelor’s degree required, preferably in the areas of conservation, science, education, non-profit management, or a related field.
• Experience:
  • At least 4 years of successful experience with program coordination, community engagement, public outreach and program delivery, preferably in a non-profit setting. Preference for applicants with outdoor education experience.
• Special Knowledge/Skills:
  • Experience leading environmental conservation programming or stewardship work.
  • Experience with citizen science and/or outdoor volunteers a plus.
  • Experience kayaking and/or canoeing required.
  • Highly organized with an attention to detail.
  • Demonstrated ability to handle large workload in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
  • Excellent written communication skills and a talent for planning and tracking data and activities.
  • Aware of current, local, national and international conservation issues, with the ability to effectively and clearly communicate them to various audiences.
  • Awareness of Chicago region ecology a plus.
  • Proficient with Microsoft Office suite.
• Other Skills: 
  • A love of the outdoors and working with people is necessary. 
  • Positive attitude and supportive of colleagues in a team-based environment.
  • Driven, highly organized self-starter.
  • Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects and remain flexible and positive despite challenges (e.g., weather conditions, changes in group size, etc.)
  • Appreciation for and strong attention to detail.
  • Passionate about the environment.
  • Poised, articulate professional with diplomacy, a sense of humor, and a positive attitude. A lifelong learner.
• Physical Requirements:
  • Must be comfortable working outdoors in natural areas with minimal amenities – including shelter – in all weather.
  • Must be able to work flexible hours including early mornings, evenings, and Saturdays.
  • Must be able to walk/stand/sit for extended periods of time.
  • Must have valid driver’s license and willingness to drive company vehicle in city, suburban, and rural settings.
  • Must be able to do heavy lifting (up to 50 lbs.).
• Preferred Skills:
  • Advanced wilderness/outdoor training a plus.
  • Technology experience beyond basic computer skills and willingness to learn new technologies.
  • A personal vehicle to travel to/from program sites is preferred but not required.
• Designations/Certifications: required/preferred:
  • CPR and first aid certified preferred.  Wilderness first aid certification a plus.
  • Forest Preserves of Cook County Volunteer Workday Leadership Certification a plus.
  • Current Illinois Pesticide Applicator or Operator license a plus.

Recent ENVS Faculty Accomplishments

Grants/Fellowships:

• Lake County Forest Preserve District, Ecological Assessment of District Lands, R. King, N. Barber and H. Jones, Co-PIs
• U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Status and population viability assessment of the Blanding’s Turtle within the Chiwaukee-Illinois Beach Lake Plain, R. King and G. Glowacki (Lake County Forest Preserve District), Co-P
• Illinois Department of Natural Resources, Inventory of Amphibians and Reptiles in the Green River Conservation Opportunity Area, R. King, PI
• Andy Bruno received a Fellowship in Aerospace History from NASA and the History of Science Society to pursue his research on the history of the 1908 Tunguska explosion over Siberia

Publications:

• Andy Bruno published “A Tale of Two Reindeer: Pastoralism and Preservation in the Soviet Arctic,” REGION: Regional Studies of Russia, Eastern Europe, and Central Asia 6, no. 2 (2017): 251–271
• Andy Bruno was also quoted in Mother Jones' article on Trump leaving the Paris Climate Agreement: http://www.motherjones.com/politics/2017/06/trumps-other-russian-connection/
• Eric Zeemering has an article in the January 2018 issue of Public Management Review, which is a special issue on sustainability management: http://www.tandfonline.com/toc/rpxm20/current
• Eric Zeemering also published a paper that is titled "Sustainability Management, Strategy and Reform in Local Government." It challenges city policymakers to integrate sustainability in the strategic planning process, rather than simply "bolting on" boutique environmental programs that do not advance the organization's capacity to achieve broader environmental, economic, and social goals. (http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/14719037.2017.1293148)
  

Conferences:

• Andy Bruno gave invited talks at four different colleges and universities, and presented at three major conferences. 

Research:

• Jason Hanna is working with a student in the Research Rookies program to investigate the value of a species, with special focus on endangered species. They are asking questions like: Do species have intrinsic value, and what does it mean to say that a species does have intrinsic value?
• Nicholas Barber and Holly Jones had a successful season at Nachusa. They had a great team consisting of graduate and undergraduate students, including 4 ENVS students (Byron Gembeck, Manthy Tee, Tammy Scheck, and Jeff Heise).  They were able to get hands-on experience carrying out research in the field and in the lab as part of our larger project to better understand prairie ecosystem restoration.