Public Service Forester

Vacancy Announcement Public Service Forester

POSITION OBJECTIVE: 

To provide information and technical assistance to non-industrial woodland owners, residential landowners and local governments to enable them to better plan, manage, protect and utilize their woodland, wildlife and related resources. 

RELATIONSHIPS: 

The Forester is hired by the Grand Traverse Conservation District and provides services in to landowners within the Leelanau and Grand Traverse Conservation Districts. The Grand Traverse Conservation District serves as the employer of record and the Forester works out of that office in Traverse City, Michigan. 

RESPONSIBILITIES: 

1. Serves as first point of contact for private landowners and local governments for forestland management, wildlife habitat management, and related natural resource management activities.
2. Provides, as a public service, both on-site and in-office assistance to private landowners and governmental units so that they can make informed decisions regarding resource management on their property or in their jurisdictions.
3. Plans, develops and evaluates land management prescriptions on non-industrial private lands and public lands for timber production, wildlife habitat enhancement, recreation, aesthetics, and the promotion of plant species based on ecosystem principles.
4. Supplies referrals to other individuals, agencies and organizations for resource planning and implementation.
5. Provides public relations activities, such as professional, formal and informal presentations, and direct contact with the news media and the general public.
6. Prepares written materials such as reports, recommendations, correspondence, proposals, educational materials and news articles.
7. Provides advice on the selection and planting of trees, shrubs and other plants for reforestation, wildlife habitat enhancement, windbreaks, recreation, aesthetics and other purposes.
8. Provides advice on the control of insects, disease and wildlife pests for woodlands, wildlife lands and urban forests.
9. Supervises and promotes the tree seedling sales programs in both Districts and promotes establishment of forest and wildlife plantations. 10. Conducts demonstrations and workshops designed to inform the public about forest and wildlife management techniques and benefits. 

QUALIFICATIONS: 

Education: A minimum of a Bachelor of Science degree in Forestry, Wildlife Management, or equivalent from an accredited college or university. 

Experience:
A minimum of three years experience of providing forestry and/or wildlife management assistance to the public or to private industry.

Skills and Abilities:
1. Has excellent understanding of silvicultural practices and techniques.
2. Is able to identify and recommend treatment strategies for insect and disease problems common to northern Michigan trees and shrubs.
3. Operates a standard PC work station and effectively uses word processing, spreadsheet and GIS software programs.
4. Has excellent oral, telephonic and written communication skills in the English language.
5. Traverses uneven ground and rough terrain for extended periods.
6. Sets and meets deadlines and priorities.
7. Relates effectively to diverse clientele and work groups.
8. Familiar with operation and care of forestry-related field equipment (e.g., clinometer, increment borer, diameter tape, compass, gps receiver, etc.).
9. Maintains a valid driver's license.
10. Owns an operational, licensed and insured motor vehicle and is willing to use it on the job. 

COMPENSATION:
This is a grant-based, full-time position paying between $16.00 and $19.00 per hour and includes health insurance, paid holidays, annual leave and sick leave. Annual grants through the Michigan Department of Agriculture are sought and renewed in September of each year. 

TO APPLY:
Call the District office at 231.941.0960 to obtain an application form or download a copy from the District's website. Send application, resume and cover letter to: 

Grand Traverse Conservation District 1222 Veterans Drive Traverse City,
MI 49684 

Applications must be received no later than 4:30 PM EDT, Friday, 18 June 2004. 

The Grand Traverse Conservation District is an equal opportunity employer and will not discriminate in employment, promotions, or compensation on the basis of race, sex, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, age, marital status, handicap, or veteran status.