FORESTER West Virginia

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 forestry improvements through NRCS technical assistance programs on private lands in West Virginia. This is a full-time, term limited position. Duty station will be in the Weston or Mt Clare NRCS field office.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF WORK

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

• Provide multiple resource management planning that addresses significant forest and riparian health concerns on private lands through the delivery of technical assistance and available federal and state financial assistance programs
• Develop and provide recommendations for working in forest stands and riparian areas to ensure these critical habitats are included in private lands management planning
• Work with local conservation districts to identify and plan multi-partner landscape level conservation projects
• Provide expertise related to management of wildlife habitat beneficial to wild turkeys, elk, deer and other wildlife species with emphasis placed on forest health, including forest thinning, invasive species control, proper grazing regimes and riparian improvements
• Prepare and monitor forest management plans based on accepted silvicultural practices Conduct T&E reviews for NEPA/ESA compliance on Farm Bill program projects 
• Prepare forest management project contracts, providing specifications and prescriptions for forest management activities appropriate to the region
• Develop and deliver innovative forest 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 forest management project planning and implementation 
• Provide or participate in trainings or presentations related to forestry, wildlife, conservation planning certification and other topics associated with natural resource management
• 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
• Other functions as assigned by supervisor

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS

Preferred candidates will possess experience working in the forest ecosystems, riparian communities and a working knowledge of wild turkeys, forest wildlife and their habitat requirements. Knowledge of forest entomology, pathology, forest management and planning for major silvicultural 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 the ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in written form, to convey clear and persuasive messages that positively influence the thoughts and actions of others. 

QUALIFICATIONS

• Demonstrated knowledge of forest & riparian community management techniques
• 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 must secure degree before date of hire.
• Demonstrated proficiency using Microsoft Office Suite, 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, 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. 

 We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status.