Forestry Assistant - Hazard Tree Crew

The Department of Conservation and Recreation manages one of the largest and most diverse state parks systems in the nation and protects and enhances natural resources and outdoor recreational opportunities throughout Massachusetts. DCR is a dynamic agency, and is one of the largest park systems in the nation. The DCR system includes over 450,000 acres of parks, forests, water supply protection lands, beaches, lakes, ponds, playgrounds, swimming pools, skating rinks, golf courses, trails and parkways. The Department of Conservation and Recreation is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Forestry Assistant, Hazard Tree Group. The Forestry Assistant performs professional duties within the Bureau of Forestry related to hazard tree mitigation and forest health. DETAILED STATEMENT OF DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES * Inspect trees to ascertain forest health including invasive insects. * Prune hazard trees where necessary to promote tree health. * Cooperates with state and municipal authorities during emergencies and natural disasters such as forest fires, hurricanes, tornadoes and insect infestations. * Conduct environmental field inspections and inspections of DCR sites. * Assist on trail maintenance, survey work and insect collection. * Provide research and field assistance for natural resource projects in Massachusetts. * Assist with computer data entry and the compilation of forest health reports * Represent DCR at public meetings and give presentations when necessary. * Evaluate environmental conditions related to recreational use. * Develop a working relationship with other DCR staff * Other duties as assigned QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED AT HIRE * Knowledge of the methods and techniques of natural resource or forestry management, including terminology. * Knowledge of safety practices and procedures followed in natural resource management. * Knowledge of the types and uses of materials and equipment used in natural resource maintenance. * Knowledge of the methods and techniques used in the care and maintenance of trees and shrubs. * Skill in using hand-held power tools such as chain saws. * Skill in using hand tools such as hammers, pliers, etc. * Ability to understand, apply and explain the laws, rules, regulations, policies, procedures, specifications, standards and guidelines governing assigned unit activities. * Ability to maintain accurate records. * Ability to prepare general reports. * Ability to write clearly and concisely. * Ability to give oral instructions in a precise, understandable manner. * Ability to establish and maintain harmonious working relationships with others. * Ability to establish rapport with persons from different ethnic, cultural and/or economic backgrounds. * Ability to maintain a calm manner in emergency situations. * Ability to interact with people who are under physical and/or emotional stress. * Ability to supervise, including planning and assigning work according to the nature of the job to be accomplished, assessing the capabilities of subordinates and available resources; controlling work through periodic reviews and/or evaluations; determining subordinates' training needs and providing or arranging for such training; motivating subordinates to work effectively; determining the need for disciplinary action and recommending disciplinary action. * Physical stamina and endurance. * Ability to operate instruments and equipment used in measuring environmental conditions. * Ability to read, interpret and use maps, including USGS topographic maps. This requisition will remain open until filled; however, first consideration will be given to those applicants that apply within the first 14 days. Minimum Entrance Requirements: Applicants must have at least (A) one year of full-time, or equivalent part-time experience in forestry or natural resource management, or (B) any equivalent combination of the required experience and the substitutions below. Substitutions: I. An Associate's or higher degree with a major in forestry or forestry management may be substituted for the required experience.* * Education toward such a degree will be prorated on the basis of the proportion of the requirements actually completed. Special Requirements: Possession of a current and valid Massachusetts Class D Motor Vehicle Operator's License. An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.

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