Applications for 2025-26 Work Study Ecological Restoration Technician 1 positions will be accepted beginning August 1, 2025.
Ecological Restoration Technician 1 (Work Study only)
Olympia Ecosystems is a 501(c)(3) non-profit conservation organization focused on protecting, preserving, and restoring ecosystems in and around Olympia. To accomplish its goals, Olympia Ecosystems relies on both paid staff and volunteers to conduct restoration and maintenance efforts on the organization’s preserves. This position works with the Land Conservation Director and is focused on accomplishing the field work required to steward, restore, and protect habitat within the preserves.
Employment type:
Part-Time (Up to 19 hrs/week during the school year, as required by the Work Study program)
Duration:
September 2025 - June 2026
Location:
Olympia, Washington
Pay Range:
$20-21/hour
Required Qualifications:
- Work Study qualification for 2025-26 and verificaiton by your institutions student employment office.
- A valid driver’s license clear of suspension or revocation and reliable means of transportation.
- Ability to work outdoors in uneven terrain and in various weather conditions.
- Work requires heavy muscular effort or exertion, but not continuous. Candidates shall be able to lift 50 lbs. and walk over uneven and steep terrain.
- First Aid / CPR certification or willingness to acquire certification at Olympia Ecosystems’ expense within 30 days.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Working toward an undergraduate degree in Ecology or a related field
- Prior outdoor work experience
The ideal candidate will have an interest in learning about pacific northwest plants, local ecosystems, restoration methods, and plant propagation methods.
Application instructions
To apply, please visit Handshake. Alternatively, cover letters and resumes can be emailed to info@olyecosystems.org, mailed, or delivered to our office (1107 West Bay Drive NW, Suite 101-A, Olympia, WA 98502). Olympia Ecosystems will review applications and schedule interviews with selected applicants starting in August, 2025.
ABOUT OLYMPIA ECOSYSTEMS
Olympia Ecosystems is a non-profit organization that has created four preserves in and around Olympia, Washington. We mobilize an enthusiastic volunteer workforce and partner with like-minded organizations to replace invasive species with thriving pacific northwest adapted plants. Our working Board of Directors and staff are dedicated to the protection of urban green space in perpetuity.
MISSION
Olympia Ecosystems is established to protect, preserve, and restore the diverse ecosystems in and around Olympia, Washington that include the freshwater, shoreline, tidal waters, grasslands and upland forests that are home to the Pacific Great Blue Heron, cutthroat trout, salmon and companion species. In coordination with community members, local agencies, and other non-profit groups, we will work to ensure that these ecosystems remain vital in perpetuity.
VISION
Our vision is of thriving nature and a thriving community in a sustainable urban ecosystem, one that enables Olympia to prosper while caring for the South Puget Sound.
COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION
We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace where every employee is valued and supported. We welcome team members of all backgrounds and perspectives. Even if you do not meet every job requirement listed, we still encourage you to apply. We believe your relevant experience and expertise will help us become a better workplace for all. Women, gender-nonbinary, people of color, LGBTQIA+ people, and people with disabilities are encouraged to apply. In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the U.S. and to complete the required I-9 Employment Eligibility Verification form upon hire.