Forester

FORESTER, NEBRASKA

The National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF) is seeking qualified candidates for a forester. This is a cooperative position between the NWTF and the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) and will be responsible for administering, implementing and promoting conservation practices through NRCS technical assistance programs on private lands across Nebraska. This is a full-time, term limited position. The duty station is the NRCS Service Center in Beatrice, Nebraska.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF WORK

The forester position will assist NRCS in promoting management of privately owned forested lands for multiple resource benefits, including forest & riparian health, wildlife habitat, fuels reduction and water quality. The forester provides forestry assistance to private landowners to achieve optimum environmental, economic and social benefits from forest resources. In addition, the forester will prescribe and monitor silvicultural practices and deliver technical assistance and financial assistance programs under the direction of NRCS.

DUTIES

• Develop conservation plans that address multiple forest and riparian health concerns on private lands through the delivery of technical assistance and available federal and state financial assistance programs
• Develop recommendations for woodlands to ensure that they are being conserved in private land management plans
• Work with local conservation districts to identify and plan multi-partner landscape level conservation projects
• Provide expertise related to management of woodlands for wild turkeys, deer and other native species Develop contracts with private landowners for the implementation of forest management practices
• Develop and deliver innovative woodland management techniques to landowners and cooperators through workshops, written materials, field days and educational programs
• Provide internal review and input as requested on need, purpose and design during all stages of USDA-NRCS program planning and implementation
• Promote awareness and collaboration of state, federal and local conservation programs and planning, and acquire project support through engagement with conservation organizations, local conservation groups, industry and local communities
• Participate on forestry-related sub-committees & workgroups with conservation partners and assists NRCS State Biologist/Forester with review and revision of conservation standards, specifications and job sheets
• Other functions as assigned by supervisor

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS

Preferred candidates will possess experience working in forest ecosystems and riparian communities, and a working knowledge of forest wildlife and their habitat requirements. Knowledge of forest entomology, pathology, forest management and planning for major forest types of the region is required. Familiarity with NEPA & ESA and a working knowledge of basic surveying principles, map reading and GIS/GPS technology, ArcGIS skills and the ability to apply professional scientific techniques to the land for which responsibilities are assigned is required. The forester will possess the ability to effectively cooperate with private landowners, the general public, cooperators and their peers. The position requires knowledge of USDA Farm Bill conservation programs (e.g., EQIP, CSP, CRP) and the ability to communicate effectively (both orally and in written form), and to convey clear and persuasive messages that positively influence the thoughts and actions of others.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Demonstrated knowledge of restoration techniques and sustainable management practices for forest lands; especially riparian woodlands
• Demonstrated knowledge of habitat requirements for woodland wildlife species
• Ability to develop conservation practice prescriptions for woodlands Strong organizational skills and capability to work independently with little direct supervision
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Applicants must possess a Bachelor's degree in Forestry from a SAF-Accredited Program or other natural resource degree with a strong forestry emphasis, or relevant experience (Applicants with a Master's degree in forestry or education/experience in wildlife management are preferred) . Applicants within two months of graduating with a degree as listed will need to secure degree before date of hire.
• Demonstrated proficiency using GIS and Microsoft Office programs including Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and Outlook

PHYSICAL QUALIFICATIONS

Applicant must be able and willing to:

• Work alone in a diverse range of climatic and topographic conditions including extreme hot and cold temperatures, biting insects, and snakes, possibly in remote areas with limited access and amenities and other extreme conditions as warranted
• Walk several miles per day in the conditions described above and drive and/or ride long distances frequently

Salary is commensurate with experience and skillset and includes an excellent benefits package.

Please visit the NWTF website () to apply

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