Forest Technician-Five Forks District

About the role

The Virginia Department of Forestry is seeking a Forest Technician for the Five Forks District in the Eastern Region, primarily serving Amelia and Nottoway Counties. The position is 100% mobile, with a take‑home state‑owned vehicle, laptop, smartphone, and mobile printer provided. Within six months of hire, the incumbent must reside in Nottoway or Amelia County.

Responsibilities

• Inspect timber harvests for compliance with Virginia’s Silvicultural Water Quality Law.
• Assist loggers, timber buyers, and forestry professionals with pre‑harvest planning and provide Best Management Practices (BMP) recommendations.
• Prevent and suppress wildland fires; enforce Virginia’s forest fire laws.
• Maintain and ready wildland firefighting equipment for emergencies.
• Perform GPS and GIS mapping and coordinate with local governments and fire departments.
• Educate the public about the benefits of trees and forests.
• Execute special projects, including state forest or state lands management.
• Maintain DOF facilities, vehicles, and equipment, including regular equipment exercise.

Minimum Qualifications

• Ability to negotiate forested, rough, and rugged terrain on foot in all weather conditions.
• Capability to climb on and off equipment, work in smoky environments, and travel statewide with occasional overnight stays.
• Valid driver’s license (or ability to obtain one) and ability to obtain a Virginia Commercial Driver’s License (Class A or B) within six months of employment.
• Knowledge of Virginia’s forestry laws and silvicultural BMPs.
• Ability to identify common Virginia tree species.
• Strong communication, organization, and public‑speaking skills.
• Experience with GIS, GPS units, or digital mapping tools.
• Proficiency with common forestry tools and Microsoft Office (e.g., Excel).

Preferred Qualifications

• Valid Commercial Driver’s License (Class A or B).
• Experience operating heavy equipment such as bulldozers or tracked machinery.
• Completion of basic wildland firefighting courses (NWCG S‑130, S‑190, L‑180; FEMA ICS‑100) and fire experience (prescribed burn or wildfire).

Pay

Salary range: $37,000.00 – $50,000.00 (Pay Band 3).

Schedule

Responders must be on call during Spring and Fall fire seasons and may be required to work nights, weekends, or holidays as emergencies arise. Annual moderate physical fitness test required (walk 2 miles in 30 minutes carrying a 25‑lb pack). Must pass a criminal background check and drug test.