Forester

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 across Southeastern Iowa. This is a full-time, term limited (three-year minimum) position. Duty station is Fairfield. 

The forester position assists partners in promoting management of privately owned forested lands and riparian areas for multiple resource benefits, including forest health, wildlife habitat, fuels reduction and water quality. The forester provides forestry technical 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 planning tailored to customer’s needs and financial assistance programs under the direction of NRCS District Conservationist’s and Area Staff Specialist that meet USDA and NRCS requirements.

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, upland game birds, deer and other wildlife species with emphasis placed on forest health, including forest thinning, proper grazing regimes and riparian improvements

·     Prepare and implement forest management plans based on accepted silvicultural practices

·     Prepare forest management project contracts, providing specifications and prescriptions for thinning, mastication, slash treatments, and other forest management activities

·     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

·     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

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. 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. Knowledge of USDA Farm Bill conservation programs (e.g., EQIP, CSP, CRP).

·        Demonstrated knowledge of forest management techniques, conservation implementation, habitat management, and wildlife biology is desired

·        Strong organizational skills and capability to work independently with little direct supervision

·        Strong organizational skills, networking, communication (ex., verbal, presentation, inter-personal, writing), project management, and leadership ability is preferred

·        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 and secure degree before date of hire.

·        Demonstrated proficiency using Microsoft Office Suite, including Excel, Word, Powerpoint, Outlook, and Social Media

·        Experience working with private landowners as well as Federal / State agencies with working knowledge of USDA cost-share programs

·        Applicant will have to obtain USDA Federal Security Clearance and may be required to participate in specific training programs to use partner facilities and equipment. Applicant must have a valid driver’s license & will be based out of a NRCS office within Southeastern IA.

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.

This position will require moderate overnight travel. The NRCS will provide office space in Fairfield, IA. Excellent benefits package. Salary is commensurate with experience.

Please visit the NWTF website (https://nwtf.applicantpro.com/jobs/) to apply