Forester / Arborist (Contractor)

Key Responsibilities:

1.        Forest Assessment and Planning

a.        Conduct a detailed tree stand evaluation and forest inventory

b.        Develop comprehensive forest management plans

c.        Create GIS/GPS maps and models of forest properties

2.        Ecological Management

a.        Design and implement invasive species management strategies

b.        Plan and oversee herbicide and pesticide application (as applicable)

c.        Develop and execute prescribed burn plans

3.        Economic and Regulatory Compliance

a.        Assist landowners with carbon market enrollment and verification planning

b.        Guide landowners through forest certification processes (e.g. ATFS, FSC)

c.        Provide advisory services on timber taxation and basis tracking

4.        Tree Care and Risk Mitigation

a.        Perform hazard tree analysis and recommend mitigation strategies (as applicable)

b.        Diagnose and treat tree diseases and pest infestations

c.        Plan and oversee reforestation projects (as applicable)

5.        Wildlife and Recreation Planning

a.        Develop wildlife management and habitat improvement plans

b.        Design and implement lease hunting programs

c.        Plan and create wildlife food plots

d.        Design and oversee trail program implementations (as applicable)

6.        Long-term Stewardship

a.        Create long-term forest stewardship plans

b.        Assist with estate planning and land legacy strategies

c.        Identify and develop markets for forest products

7.        Technical Support and Analysis

a.        Utilize wood accounting systems for harvest tracking and efficiency

b.        Employ advanced GPS/GIS modeling for monitoring and analysis

c.        Provide expertise in tree felling, planting, and inspection techniques

Qualifications:

·      Bachelor’s degree in Forestry, Natural Resource Management, or related field

·      Master’s degree in related field preferred

·      Professional certification as a Forester or Arborist

·      Minimum of five (5) years of experience in forest management or consulting

·      Proficiency in GIS software and forestry-specific technologies

·      Strong understanding of local, state, and federal forestry regulations

·      Excellent written and verbal communication skills

·      Ability to work independently and as a part of a team

·      Valid driver’s license and ability to travel to remote locations

Preferred Skills:

·      Experience with carbon market projects and verification processes

·      Knowledge of agroforestry and sustainable forest management practices

·      Familiarity with drone technology for forest inventory and mapping

·      Understanding of timber markets and forest production valuation methodologies