Ecological Field Technician
Description
Your role at GEI.
GEI Consultants is seeking a Seasonal Ecological Field Technician to join our Appleton, Wisconsin office for the 2026 field season. This position offers hands-on experience in ecological consulting and restoration across diverse natural communities in Wisconsin and surrounding states. The ideal candidate will have introductory experience in ecology or environmental science and be comfortable working in physically and mentally demanding outdoor conditions.
Technicians will assist with a variety of field-based ecological services and restoration activities, using GPS and mobile data collection tools, maintaining field equipment, and supporting project documentation. This is an entry-level position with opportunities to gain experience in multiple service areas.
Essential Responsibilities & Duties
- Assist with wetland delineations, aquatic plant surveys, habitat classification, vegetation surveys, rare species surveys, water quality monitoring, stream assessments, hydrology monitoring and other ecological field investigations.
- Identify native and invasive plant species and understand Wisconsin’s native plant communities.
- Conduct herbicide applications and mechanical treatments for invasive species using backpack sprayers, brush cutters, and other equipment (Estimated at 10% or less of workload).
- Assist with ecological restoration construction, including:
- Native tree, shrub, and plug planting
- Seed installation and erosion control measures (e.g., coir logs, erosion control blankets)
- Operate and maintain field equipment including UTVs, watercraft, chainsaws, pumps, and small engines.
- Collect spatial data using GPS units (Trimble DA2, Garmin) and ArcGIS Field Maps.
- Work under variable weather conditions and in challenging terrain.
- Travel frequently throughout Wisconsin and adjacent states, often requiring overnight stays and irregular hours (30–55 hours/week, with overtime pay).
- Assist with data entry, report preparation, and project documentation.
Minimum Qualifications
- Pursuing or obtained a B.S. in Biological Sciences, Natural Resources, or related field.
- Familiarity with Wisconsin flora and fauna including identifying native and non-native plant and animal species.
- Ability to work outdoors in remote areas and variable conditions.
- Willingness to travel overnight and work extended hours.
- Positive, flexible, team-oriented attitude.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, multidisciplinary environment.
- Valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record.
- Must pass a background check.
- Ability to obtain a Wisconsin Commercial Pesticide Applicator’s License (preference given to those already certified) including Categories 5.0 (Aquatic & Mosquito) and 6.0 (Right-of-way and Natural Area)
- Willingness to cross-train to support environmental remediation, geotechnical, or geology-driven projects.
Desired Qualifications
- GPS experience (Trimble DA2 and Garmin Handhelds)
- ArcGIS experience (ArcPro, Field Maps, Survey123)
- First Aid, CPR, and WI Commercial Pesticide Applicator’s License
- Experience with Microsoft Office, GPS tools, and field data collection
- Experience operating trucks with trailers, ATVs/UTVs, watercraft (kayak, canoe, and motor boats), and other restoration equipment (brush cutter, blower, no till drill, etc.)
We are GEI.
Some of the world’s most pressing problems – from climate change to sustainable development, to critical infrastructure and the future of our energy supply – need our brightest and diverse minds working together to create safer, more resilient communities for tomorrow.
We are technical experts, collaborators, and entrepreneurs who draw from diverse backgrounds to solve our clients’ most complex challenges.
With several offices across North America, we offer a range of engineering, science, and technical consulting services. Our range of expertise, project types, and culture make us the choice for top talent in the AEC industry. See all our office locations here.
Employee-owned. Employee-focused.
As an employee-owned company, our employees support our flat leadership structure, have a say in how our business operates and benefit from our financial success. We are committed to employee growth with career development opportunities, competitive total rewards, a well-being program, flexible work arrangements and more. Our company culture is driven by our 4 Cs – we are Client-Centered, Curious, Collaborative, and Community Minded – which support our focus on sustainability, safety, diversity, equity and inclusion. Get to know us better by visiting GEI’s career site here.
GEI’s Total Rewards Package Includes
- Market-Competitive Compensation
- Connecting Conversation Program with a Focus on Professional Development and Opportunities for Advancement
- Rewards and Recognition
- A Vibrant Culture that is Focused on Partnership, Sustainability, Giving Back to Our Communities and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
- For Some Positions, Hybrid Work Schedules Are Available
- And More…
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
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GEI is an AA/equal opportunity employer, including disabled and veterans.