Procurement Forester / Log Buyer

Company Overview

Northwest Hardwoods (NWH) is the leading manufacturer of hardwood lumber in North America and a leading supplier of panel products worldwide. It is a fully integrated, global supplier of wood products serving the furniture, flooring, cabinet, molding and millwork industries. NWH operates more than 20 manufacturing and warehousing facilities across the country, including sawmills, concentration yards and distribution facilities, using innovative technologies to streamline the procurement process for customers. The company supplies only sustainable, high‑quality hardwoods to protect resources today and for future generations. nwh.com

Position Summary

The Procurement Forester/Log Buyer will manage a territory in northwest Pennsylvania by developing new suppliers and working with existing landowners to source hardwood logs. The role is responsible for locating, assessing, costing, and negotiating the purchase and successful harvest of standing timber to supply logs to multiple hardwood sawmills.

Responsibilities and Duties

• Develop strategies to source timber to meet the company’s manufacturing needs.
• Manage and promote positive supplier and landowner relationships.
• Cruise timber to assess land parcel viability.
• Create and manage timber bids.
• Negotiate log/timber contracts.
• Conduct due diligence in purchasing.
• Apply for required permits.
• Coordinate and inspect timber harvesting and subsequent reclamation.
• Purchase logs within strategic guidelines.
• Help maintain target inventories.
• Promote and encourage a safe working environment for yourself, fellow employees, suppliers, and contractors.
• Assist in all forestry and log‑related areas as needed.

Qualifications

• Associate’s degree in forestry; bachelor’s degree in forestry preferred.
• At least 5 years of log and timber procurement experience preferred or equivalent employment experience.
• In‑depth knowledge of log scaling, grading, and Appalachian hardwood species.
• General knowledge of logging practices and supply chain logistics.
• Northern hardwood tree identification and map‑reading skills.
• Ability to work a long, flexible schedule, principally outdoors.
• Capable of working in a team environment and alone with little supervision.
• Excellent analytic and negotiation skills.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills – written and oral.
• Ability to develop peer‑to‑peer relationships.
• Strong problem‑solving skills.
• Strong commitment to personal, team, and supplier/contractor safety.
• Competent computer skills.
• Safe driving record.

Total Rewards

• Competitive salary.
• Bonus opportunity based on company and individual performance.
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Life insurance.
• Short‑term and voluntary long‑term disability insurance.
• 401(k) retirement savings with company match.
• Health Savings Account (HSA).
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Paid time off and paid holidays.