Orchard Manager, Stuart GRMA

About the role

The Stuart GRMA Orchard Manager is a full-time position responsible for the management of orchards, seed production areas, and native plant production areas at the Stuart Genetic Resource Management Areas (GRMA) on the Kisatchie National Forest, Catahoula Ranger District. This position works in partnership with the USDA Forest Service to manage and produce high-quality, genetically diverse, and site-appropriate seed and plant material.

Responsibilities

• Manage Seed Orchards and Seed Production Areas (70-85%): Manage orchards, seed production areas, and native plant production areas. Ensure the health and productivity of these areas. Implement processes to produce and harvest high-quality seed and plant material.
• Manage Orchards (70-85%): Maintain orchard health, collect and process cones and acorns, and implement weed and understory management. Apply herbicides and pesticides. Operate and maintain heavy equipment. Coordinate orchard operations such as thinning, road maintenance, and fencing.
• Manage Progeny Field Tests (0 - 15%): Monitor and manage progeny field tests, controlling pests and diseases, and collecting samples for analysis.
• Partnership & Coordination (10%): Serve as the liaison between American Forests and the USDA Forest Service. Coordinate with partners to align seed production goals with regional and national priorities. Submit progress reports and participate in meetings.
• Other Duties as Assigned (5%): Assist with development activities, prepare presentations, assist with budgets, host workshops, and lead site visits and field tours.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in forestry, natural resource management, horticulture, botany, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience.
• At least 3 years of experience in orchard management, forestry nursery operations, silviculture, or seed production.
• Knowledge of genetic resources and seed orchard management, forest genetics, and tree improvement methods.
• Skills to safely operate various equipment and coordinate work plans.
• Strong communications and organizational skills.
• Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions.
• Proficiency in field data collection tools and ArcGIS Pro software.
• Basic data management and record-keeping skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in relevant field.
• Familiarity with USDA Forest Service handbooks, manuals, land use plans, and guides.
• Experience with Southeastern forest ecosystems and reforestation techniques.
• Knowledge of supervision and human resources management practices.
• Experience in management principles and practices related to program and workforce.

Benefits

• Health and wellness benefits.
• Work-life balance.
• Financial and retirement benefits.
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Vacation and sick leave.
• 401(k) with match.
• Employee assistance program.
• Paid holidays.
• Flexible spending accounts.
• Disability insurance.
• Parental bonding leave.
• Technology stipend.
• Life and AD&D insurance.
• Bereavement leave.
• Pet benefits.
• Military leave.

About Us

American Forests is a national non-profit organization dedicated to creating healthy and resilient forests from cities to large forest landscapes, delivering essential benefits for climate, people, water, and wildlife. We advance our mission through forestry innovation, place-based partnerships to plant and restore forests, and movement building. We envision a world where the significant environmental, societal, and economic benefits of forests are fully realized and equitably available to all people. Established in 1875, American Forests is the oldest national non-profit conservation organization in the U.S., with over 150 years of experience. We are committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace and providing opportunities for advancement and professional growth for every team member.