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Environmental Restoration Planners

SOC 19-2041.02Job Zone 5 · Extensive Preparationv.26.05

Context coveredThis framework covers environmental restoration planning practice from supervised entry-level field assessment through executive-level strategic leadership, spanning habitat management, regulatory engagement, interdisciplinary team direction, and large-scale ecological project delivery.

Sources:O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.SkillsCrosswalkSkillsCrosswalk — O*NET enrichment + adjacency index. Opens in new tab.
Emerging
Entry / Apprentice
  1. Site assessment protocols — apply under direct supervision to document environmental conditions and potential restoration needs at field locations.
  2. Biological and environmental databases — access and query to retrieve baseline data in support of graduate-level restoration planning exercises.
  3. Environmental data collection instruments — operate according to established field protocols to gather soil, water, and vegetation samples under senior planner guidance.
  4. Habitat restoration literature and species inventories — read and summarize to identify relevant restoration strategies for a given site type.
  5. Geographic information system software — perform basic data entry and layer visualization to support spatial analysis tasks on assigned restoration projects.
  6. Project schedules and budget templates — populate with provided data under supervision to assist in developing environmental restoration project timelines and cost estimates.
  7. Technical memoranda and field reports — draft in clear scientific prose to communicate preliminary findings to supervising restoration professionals.
  8. Restoration planning software — navigate and input field data under guidance to assist in generating draft habitat management scenarios.
  9. Regulatory and legal frameworks governing environmental remediation — identify applicable statutes and permit requirements relevant to assigned project sites.
  10. Interdisciplinary project team communications — actively listen and synthesize technical input from biologists, geologists, and engineers during project kickoff meetings.
Developing
Mid-level / Established
  1. Site certification assessments — conduct independently using standardized protocols to verify habitat quality and document environmental damage or restoration readiness.
  2. Native species restoration and weed control plans — develop with reduced oversight by integrating field survey data, ecological research, and regional best practices.
  3. Environmental data sets — analyze using analytical and scientific software to determine site conditions and prioritize restoration interventions across multiple project areas.
  4. Project budgets and schedules — draft and revise for mid-scale restoration projects, incorporating contractor quotes, regulatory milestones, and resource constraints.
  5. GIS-based spatial analysis — perform to map habitat extent, assess fragmentation, and support evidence-based restoration planning decisions on assigned projects.
  6. Field staff and technicians — coordinate day-to-day activities and provide technical guidance to ensure habitat restoration tasks are executed according to approved plans.
  7. Restoration planning presentations — prepare and deliver to internal project teams and agency partners using desktop publishing and graphics software to convey findings clearly.
  8. Habitat management plan alternatives — evaluate using systems analysis and inductive reasoning to recommend optimal strategies for ecologically sensitive landscapes.
  9. Environmental study findings — communicate in written reports and oral briefings to restoration professionals, adapting technical depth to the audience's expertise level.
  10. Cross-disciplinary data — integrate from biological, geological, and engineering sources to identify emerging restoration challenges and propose adaptive solutions.
Proficient
Senior / Expert IC
  1. Comprehensive habitat management and restoration plans — author autonomously, incorporating native tree restoration, invasive species control, and long-term monitoring protocols for complex multi-stakeholder sites.
  2. Full-scope environmental site assessments — lead independently, applying advanced field judgment to certify habitats and quantify ecological damage across diverse and non-routine site conditions.
  3. Environmental restoration project schedules and budgets — develop end-to-end with full accountability, managing contingency planning and cost-benefit tradeoffs across multiphase, large-scale projects.
  4. Technical direction — provide to interdisciplinary teams of energy engineers, biologists, geologists, and other specialists to align restoration strategies with ecological and regulatory objectives.
  5. Restoration planning software and biological databases — leverage at an expert level to model restoration scenarios, evaluate ecological outcomes, and optimize resource allocation.
  6. Non-routine environmental remediation challenges — diagnose and resolve by applying advanced systems evaluation, deductive reasoning, and cross-domain scientific knowledge.
  7. Regulatory negotiation — engage with government agencies and legal counsel to secure environmental permits and approvals for complex restoration projects.
  8. Field staff training programs — design and deliver to build technical competency in habitat assessment, ecological monitoring, and restoration implementation methodologies.
  9. Environmental remediation proposals — synthesize and present to diverse audiences including agency regulators, community stakeholders, and scientific peers with precision and clarity.
  10. CAD and GIS platforms — integrate to produce detailed restoration design drawings and spatially explicit habitat management plans for regulatory submission and contractor use.
Advanced
Lead / Principal / Executive
  1. Organizational restoration strategy — define and champion across large-scale programs, aligning ecological priorities, resource investments, and regulatory frameworks at enterprise or regional scale.
  2. Multi-project restoration portfolios — oversee and direct, establishing performance standards, cross-project risk management protocols, and adaptive management frameworks for sustained ecological outcomes.
  3. Technical workforce capability — cultivate organization-wide by designing competency development pathways, mentoring senior planners, and institutionalizing knowledge transfer systems.
  4. Interdisciplinary restoration science — advance by directing applied research initiatives, integrating emerging biological, geospatial, and engineering technologies into next-generation planning methodologies.
  5. Complex stakeholder negotiations — lead at the executive level with government agencies, tribal entities, private landowners, and international partners to forge restoration agreements and policy commitments.
  6. Enterprise restoration planning systems and ERP platforms — govern selection, implementation, and continuous improvement to optimize project delivery efficiency across the organization.
  7. Environmental policy and regulatory landscapes — influence proactively by contributing expert testimony, authoring white papers, and engaging in rulemaking processes at state, federal, or international levels.
  8. Organizational quality and scientific standards — establish and enforce for environmental assessments, restoration plans, and technical communications across all project teams and external partners.
  9. Strategic funding and resource acquisition — direct by leading grant proposals, public-private partnerships, and capital planning processes that secure long-term financial sustainability for restoration programs.
  10. Field-to-executive knowledge translation — communicate complex ecological systems findings and restoration outcomes to boards, legislatures, and executive leadership to drive informed organizational and policy decisions.

AI-at-Work Competency Framework

Sources:Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab.Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab.WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab.
Subscriber feature

Authoritative source data identified for 998 occupations

How a worker at each mastery level uses, directs, and evaluates AI tools in this occupation. Each statement cites its evidence inline; click a citation chip to verify the source.

Emerging
  1. AI-assisted data compilation — queries AI tools to aggregate environmental baseline data and regulatory requirements for restoration sites, manually verifying all outputs against primary sources WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
Developing
  1. Restoration plan drafting support — directs AI tools to generate initial habitat management plan templates and project schedule frameworks, then applies domain expertise to refine site-specific conditions and ecological goals Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
Proficient
  1. Complex problem decomposition — applies AI-assisted analysis to integrate multi-variable environmental datasets (soil, hydrology, vegetation) into coherent restoration strategies, retaining authorship of all critical judgments about ecological tradeoffs Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
Advanced
  1. Interdisciplinary coordination scaffolding — orchestrates AI tools to synthesize technical inputs from engineers, biologists, and geologists into unified restoration planning documents, while exercising expert critical thinking to adjudicate conflicting recommendations and validate ecological assumptions Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
Evidence pack
SAFI positioning
Top skill: Critical Thinking
Score: 57.9 / 100
precision: category_estimate
WEF cluster
Data Science and Analysis
data_science_and_analysis
Sources:WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab.Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab.

Pathsmith Durable Skills Framework

Sources:Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Subscriber feature

Ten durable-skill domains mapped to four proficiency/role levels for each occupation. Each statement is aligned to the Pathsmith taxonomy, derived from trusted grounding data and mapped to occupation-specific O*NET tasks and skills.

1Communication12 statements
Emerging
  1. Site assessment summary — drafts basic written reports describing observed environmental conditions and initial restoration needs using standard templates Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Stakeholder briefing — delivers introductory verbal summaries of restoration project status to immediate team members in structured team meetings Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Technical vocabulary — applies core ecological and restoration terminology accurately in written field notes and project documentation O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Restoration proposal narrative — writes detailed habitat management plans including native species reintroduction rationale and weed control strategies for review by senior planners Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Interdisciplinary coordination — communicates restoration objectives and site constraints verbally to energy engineers, geologists, and biologists during cross-functional planning sessions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Active listening in field consultation — synthesizes contractor and field technician feedback during site visits to refine restoration implementation approaches Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Environmental findings presentation — communicates data-driven conclusions from ecological assessments to restoration professionals and agency representatives using visual aids and technical reports Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Regulatory correspondence — authors clear, compliant written communications to permitting agencies describing restoration methodologies and expected ecological outcomes Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Field instruction delivery — conveys precise technical guidance to field crews during habitat restoration activities, adapting language to mixed technical audiences Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Cross-sector communication strategy — crafts and delivers integrated communication plans that translate complex restoration science into actionable narratives for policymakers, landowners, and scientific peers simultaneously Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Published restoration documentation — produces peer-reviewed reports and technical guidance documents that advance restoration planning standards across the profession Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Conflict mediation facilitation — leads structured dialogue between competing stakeholder groups to resolve disputes over restoration priorities and land use through evidence-based communication Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
2Leadership10 statements
Emerging
  1. Field task ownership — takes initiative to complete assigned site data collection tasks without prompting, demonstrating early accountability for restoration field outcomes Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Peer support — assists fellow entry-level restoration technicians in understanding habitat assessment protocols during supervised fieldwork Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Field crew coordination — directs small teams of restoration technicians during habitat planting or invasive species removal activities, providing real-time technical guidance Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Project milestone accountability — tracks personal deliverables on restoration project schedules and proactively communicates progress or delays to supervising planners Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Restoration project leadership — leads multi-disciplinary project teams through full restoration planning cycles from site assessment through implementation, maintaining schedule and budget integrity Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Technical mentorship — supervises and develops the skills of junior biologists and restoration technicians through structured field training and feedback sessions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Decision authority — exercises independent judgment on habitat management strategy adjustments when field conditions deviate from restoration plan assumptions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Program-level restoration leadership — directs large-scale, multi-site restoration programs involving diverse professional teams, agency partners, and substantial budgets with full outcome accountability Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Profession development influence — mentors emerging restoration planners through formal apprenticeship or internship programs and shapes organizational technical standards Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Organizational strategy — leads the development of departmental restoration planning frameworks, resource allocation priorities, and long-range habitat recovery goals Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
3Metacognition8 statements
Emerging
  1. Learning gap identification — recognizes personal knowledge limits in specific ecological systems or restoration techniques and seeks targeted learning resources to address them Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Field reflection practice — reviews personal site assessment notes after fieldwork to identify observation errors or missed ecological indicators for improvement Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Methodology self-evaluation — assesses the appropriateness of selected ecological assessment methods after project completion and documents lessons learned for future restoration planning Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Knowledge transfer monitoring — tracks personal growth in applying biological databases and environmental planning software and adjusts self-directed learning accordingly Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Adaptive planning awareness — monitors own decision-making patterns during complex habitat restoration problem-solving and adjusts analytical strategies when initial approaches yield incomplete ecological insights Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Cross-disciplinary thinking calibration — evaluates the adequacy of own understanding of geology, hydrology, and biology interactions in restoration contexts and pursues targeted professional development Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Cognitive strategy modeling — explicitly teaches junior restoration planners how to self-monitor analytical reasoning during environmental impact assessments and plan evaluations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Systems-level metacognition — evaluates the collective reasoning processes of project teams working on complex restoration problems and implements structured reflection protocols to improve team-level decision quality Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
4Critical Thinking10 statements
Emerging
  1. Data quality assessment — identifies obvious anomalies or inconsistencies in collected field data before including measurements in preliminary restoration condition reports Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Assumption recognition — questions baseline assumptions about site history and prior land use when reviewing existing environmental documentation during initial assessments Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Causal analysis — analyzes multiple ecological, hydrological, and anthropogenic factors contributing to habitat degradation to identify root causes requiring restoration intervention Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Evidence-based strategy selection — evaluates competing habitat restoration methodologies against site-specific biological and geographic evidence before recommending approaches Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Regulatory interpretation — critically reads and applies federal, state, and local environmental regulations to determine restoration compliance requirements for specific sites O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Multi-variable site evaluation — integrates biological survey data, soil analyses, hydrology assessments, and historical land use records to form defensible conclusions about restoration feasibility and scope Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Risk and tradeoff analysis — systematically evaluates ecological, financial, and schedule tradeoffs among restoration alternatives and documents reasoning transparently in project planning records Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Model and data critique — identifies limitations and biases in biological databases and environmental modeling outputs used to inform restoration planning decisions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Novel problem decomposition — breaks down unprecedented or highly complex restoration challenges — such as novel ecosystem states or climate-stressed habitats — into tractable analytical components and develops original evaluation frameworks Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Peer review leadership — leads technical review panels that critically evaluate restoration plans submitted by other professionals, identifying logical gaps, unsupported claims, and alternative ecological interpretations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
5Collaboration9 statements
Emerging
  1. Team data collection — participates constructively in joint field assessment teams, fulfilling assigned roles during site surveys and contributing observations to shared project records Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Cross-functional awareness — demonstrates understanding of how biologists, geologists, and engineers each contribute distinct expertise to integrated restoration planning efforts Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Interdisciplinary plan contribution — collaborates with energy engineers and environmental scientists to integrate technical constraints from multiple disciplines into cohesive habitat restoration strategies Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Agency coordination — works cooperatively with regulatory agency staff during site certification processes, responding to requests and aligning restoration approaches with agency priorities Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Multi-stakeholder project execution — coordinates across landowners, contractors, agency representatives, and scientific specialists throughout restoration project implementation, managing differing priorities and timelines Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Conflict navigation — mediates technical disagreements among project team members about restoration methodology, facilitating resolution through shared review of ecological evidence Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Community engagement collaboration — works with local community groups and tribal representatives to integrate traditional ecological knowledge and community priorities into restoration planning processes Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Partnership architecture — builds and sustains long-term collaborative networks among government agencies, NGOs, academic institutions, and private landowners to enable landscape-scale restoration initiatives Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Team performance optimization — diagnoses collaboration barriers within restoration project teams and implements structural or process changes that improve collective output quality and efficiency Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
6Character9 statements
Emerging
  1. Field data integrity — records site assessment observations accurately and completely, resisting the temptation to omit inconvenient ecological data from field reports Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Professional conduct — meets project deadlines, attends technical meetings prepared, and treats colleagues and field crew members with consistent respect Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Ethical reporting — presents environmental assessment findings honestly to clients and agencies, including negative results and restoration uncertainties, without misrepresenting ecological conditions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Resource stewardship accountability — manages assigned project budgets and equipment responsibly, documenting expenditures accurately and flagging discrepancies promptly Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Regulatory compliance integrity — advises clients on required environmental compliance obligations even when compliance recommendations are financially or politically inconvenient Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Conflict of interest management — recognizes and transparently discloses personal or organizational conflicts of interest that could compromise the objectivity of restoration planning recommendations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Community obligation — advocates for the ecological and social interests of affected communities in restoration planning processes, not solely for client or organizational interests Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Ethical standard setting — develops and enforces professional ethics standards within restoration planning teams and organizational policies, modeling and institutionalizing accountable scientific practice Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Public trust stewardship — accepts personal accountability for the long-term ecological outcomes of restoration programs, publicly acknowledging and correcting planning errors when ecosystem recovery falls short of commitments Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
7Creativity9 statements
Emerging
  1. Alternative approach exploration — proposes at least one non-standard species selection or restoration technique during project planning discussions, citing ecological rationale Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Visual data representation — experiments with novel mapping or diagrammatic methods to represent habitat conditions and restoration scenarios more clearly than standard formats allow Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Adaptive methodology design — develops modified site assessment protocols when standard methods are unsuitable for unusual habitat types, degraded sites, or novel ecosystem conditions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Cross-ecosystem knowledge transfer — applies restoration principles and species strategies from well-studied ecosystems creatively to analogous but less-researched habitat contexts Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Integrated restoration concept development — designs innovative habitat management plans that combine ecological, hydrological, and community co-benefit strategies in ways that exceed conventional single-objective approaches Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Technology integration — incorporates emerging remote sensing, GIS modeling, or environmental planning software tools into restoration assessment workflows to generate insights unavailable through traditional field methods Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Constraint-driven problem solving — generates effective restoration solutions under conditions of severe budget limitation, site access restriction, or regulatory uncertainty through inventive resource substitution Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Restoration paradigm innovation — conceives and pilots novel restoration frameworks — such as climate-adaptive planting palettes or self-sustaining ecosystem design models — that advance the field beyond current practice Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Creative knowledge dissemination — develops original training curricula, visualization tools, or decision-support systems that make complex restoration planning concepts accessible to non-specialist audiences and practitioners Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
8Growth Mindset9 statements
Emerging
  1. Feedback receptivity — accepts constructive critique of site assessment reports and field techniques from senior planners and revises work accordingly without defensiveness Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Challenge seeking — volunteers for fieldwork in unfamiliar ecosystem types to expand personal ecological knowledge beyond areas of prior training Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Setback reframing — treats failed restoration interventions or rejected permit applications as learning opportunities, conducting structured post-mortems to extract applicable lessons Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Continuing education pursuit — proactively enrolls in advanced training on biological assessment methods, planning software, or emerging restoration science to extend technical competence Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Iterative practice refinement — systematically revises habitat management planning approaches across successive projects based on accumulated field outcome data, improving ecological success rates over time Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Peer learning cultivation — actively solicits technical feedback from interdisciplinary colleagues including engineers and geologists to identify blind spots in own restoration planning perspective Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Effort investment in complexity — deliberately pursues the most ecologically complex restoration assignments available to accelerate professional development even when simpler projects are more immediately achievable Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Learning culture leadership — establishes formal after-action review processes within restoration planning teams that normalize vulnerability, celebrate analytical growth, and embed continuous improvement into project workflows Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Field failure scholarship — publishes or presents analyses of restoration project failures and course corrections, contributing growth-oriented case studies that advance collective learning across the restoration planning profession Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
9Mindfulness9 statements
Emerging
  1. Field presence — maintains focused observational attention during site assessments, noticing subtle ecological indicators such as soil moisture patterns or understory species composition without distraction Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Stress acknowledgment — recognizes personal stress responses during high-stakes project deadlines and applies basic regulation techniques to maintain functional analytical performance Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Attention management in complex analysis — sustains deliberate concentration while integrating large biological and geographic datasets during multi-variable environmental condition assessments Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Emotional regulation in stakeholder tension — manages personal emotional responses during contentious landowner or agency negotiations to maintain professional composure and analytical clarity Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Intentional decision-making — pauses to explicitly examine assumptions and emotional biases before finalizing high-impact restoration strategy recommendations with irreversible ecological consequences Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Team atmosphere awareness — monitors group dynamics and stress levels within restoration project teams, intervening thoughtfully when interpersonal tension begins to degrade technical collaboration quality Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Present-moment field acuity — sustains heightened sensory attention throughout extended field surveys in physically demanding or ecologically complex environments, maintaining data collection quality across full workdays Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Organizational mindfulness modeling — integrates structured reflection practices — such as pre-meeting intention setting and post-project ecological outcome reviews — into team and organizational culture Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Crisis-condition composure — maintains clear analytical judgment and calm decision-making authority during environmental emergencies, unexpected ecological discoveries, or sudden regulatory changes affecting active restoration projects Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
10Fortitude9 statements
Emerging
  1. Physical persistence — completes demanding field site assessments in adverse weather, difficult terrain, or ecologically hostile environments without abandoning data collection responsibilities Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Early career resilience — continues developing restoration planning skills constructively after receiving critical performance feedback on initial project deliverables Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Regulatory adversity navigation — maintains productive momentum on restoration projects facing permit denials, agency challenges, or shifting environmental compliance requirements Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Long-cycle project endurance — sustains consistent effort and professional engagement across multi-year restoration projects where ecological progress metrics are slow to materialize Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Uncertainty tolerance — advances restoration planning and implementation decisions under conditions of incomplete ecological data, contested scientific evidence, or unresolved jurisdictional authority Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Organizational resistance management — persists in advocating for ecologically sound restoration approaches when client budget pressures, organizational politics, or contractor preferences favor shortcuts Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Post-failure recommitment — rebuilds project momentum and team confidence following significant restoration failures — such as mass planting mortality events or funding losses — without abandoning long-term ecological recovery objectives Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Sustained landscape-scale commitment — maintains personal and organizational resolve through decade-long, complex restoration programs facing political opposition, funding instability, and evolving climate conditions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Courageous scientific advocacy — publicly defends scientifically grounded but institutionally unpopular restoration recommendations in regulatory hearings, legal proceedings, or high-profile public forums Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Sources:Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
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Related titles
Coastal and Estuary Specialist · Conservation Planner · Environmental Planner · Environmental Planning Engineer · Environmental Restoration Planner · Fisheries Habitat Restoration Specialist · Habitat Conservation Planner · Habitat Restoration Specialist · Marine Habitat Resources Specialist · Restoration Ecologist · Restoration Specialist · Watershed Coordinator
RAPIDS apprenticeships
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O*NET skills
Critical ThinkingComplex Problem SolvingJudgment and Decision MakingSpeakingReading ComprehensionActive ListeningWritingMonitoringSystems AnalysisScienceActive LearningSystems EvaluationSocial PerceptivenessMathematicsCoordinationNegotiationService OrientationLearning StrategiesTime ManagementPersuasion
Knowledge domains
BiologyEnglish LanguageGeographyDesignMathematicsAdministration and ManagementCustomer and Personal ServiceLaw and GovernmentEngineering and TechnologyComputers and ElectronicsBuilding and Construction
Abilities
Written ExpressionOral ExpressionWritten ComprehensionOral ComprehensionInductive ReasoningDeductive ReasoningProblem SensitivitySpeech RecognitionSpeech ClarityInformation Ordering
Work styles
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Technology
Document management softwareGraphics or photo imaging softwareDesktop publishing softwareComputer aided design CAD softwareElectronic mail softwareGeographic information systemMobile location based services softwareAnalytical or scientific softwareData base user interface and query softwareEnterprise resource planning ERP software
Tasks · seed anchors for statements
  1. Develop environmental restoration project schedules and budgets.
  2. Provide technical direction on environmental planning to energy engineers, biologists, geologists, or other professionals working to develop restoration plans or strategies.
  3. Create habitat management or restoration plans, such as native tree restoration and weed control.
  4. Conduct site assessments to certify a habitat or to ascertain environmental damage or restoration needs.
  5. Collect and analyze data to determine environmental conditions and restoration needs.
  6. Supervise and provide technical guidance, training, or assistance to employees working in the field to restore habitats.
  7. Plan environmental restoration projects, using biological databases, environmental strategies, and planning software.
  8. Communicate findings of environmental studies or proposals for environmental remediation to other restoration professionals.
CIP education codes
03.010303.010426.100426.100526.100630.320130.330130.410130.440140.050951.2202

Sources: O*NET v30.2 (CC BY 4.0), SkillsCrosswalk.com, LER.me, Anthropic Economic Index, SAFI (Jadhav & Danve, 2026), WEF Skills Taxonomy 2021, Pathsmith Durable Skills Framework. © 2026 EBSCOed.