Forester Specialist

About the role

This position assists with the logging crew operation at state properties from marking timber to operating all logging equipment. The role will also be responsible for forest resource management.

Responsibilities

• Collect technical forest resource data on state managed lands, private property, and/or urban areas.
• Analyze resource data and develop plans including inventory summaries, resource management guides, and practice plans for invasive control, timber stand improvement, tree planting, and prescribed burns.
• Administer and implement forestry practices and programs which may involve federal, state, and local agencies and private individuals/businesses.
• Establish and maintain public relations with landowners, communities, organizations, wood-using industries, and the public.
• Conduct educational programs and develop educational materials for public and staff.
• Provide specialized guidance and coordination in area of expertise, making recommendations to division heads for program objectives.
• Supervise intermittent employees and/or volunteers when needed.

Requirements

Forester Degree is required. Salary Statement The salary for this position traditionally starts at $47,320.00 but may be commensurate with education or work experience.

Qualifications

• Thorough knowledge of the principles, theories, and practices of forest resources management, tree species and forest types native to Indiana.
• Specialized knowledge of tree and herbaceous plant identification, fire behavior and suppression, and/or educational programming development.
• Thorough knowledge of program area and program administration, including rules and regulations.
• Specialized knowledge of computer operations including Microsoft Office and GIS software.
• Extensive knowledge of forestry programs and ability to incorporate this knowledge in program planning.
• Basic knowledge of land surveying.
• Ability to supervise and direct work of others.
• Ability to maintain cooperative work relationships.
• Ability to effectively communicate, both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to effectively organize and prioritize work to achieve desired program outcomes, and apply technical knowledge to a wide variety of land situations.
• Ability to successfully complete basic wildfire courses (red card certification) and prescribed burning course within 2 years of employment.

Skills

Individuals should have the ability to perform essential functions with or without reasonable accommodation.

Benefits

The State of Indiana offers a comprehensive benefit package for full-time employees which includes:

• Three (3) medical plan options (including RX coverage) as well as vision and dental plans
• A wellness rewards program: Complete wellness activities to earn gift card rewards
• A health savings account, which includes bi-weekly state contribution
• A 457(b) account (similar to 401(k) plan) with employer match
• Two (2) fully-funded pension plan options
• A robust, comprehensive program of leave policies covering a variety of employee needs, including but not limited to: 150 hours of paid New Parent Leave and up to eight weeks of paid Childbirth Recovery Leave for eligible mothers
• Up to 15 hours of paid community service leave
• Cumulative 180 hours of paid vacation, personal, and sick leave time off
• 12 paid holidays, 14 on election years
• Education Reimbursement Program
• Group life insurance
• Free parking for most positions
• Free LinkedIn Learning access

Pay

The salary for this position traditionally starts at $47,320.00 but may be commensurate with education or work experience.

Schedule

The schedule for this role is not specified.