Senior Area Forester (Forester)

  Virginia Department of Forestry

  King William, Virginia, United States

Duties: The Virginia Department of Forestry is seeking an experienced forestry professional to lead staff members assigned to the Capital Work Area and to provide professional assistance, as a scientific expert, in program delivery for the following areas: natural resources management and protection; land use planning; conserving the land base; urban and community forestry; watershed and riparian forest management; conservation education; and forest health. Incumbent supervises and provides direction to Area Foresters and Forest Technicians in assigned work area; mentors and trains new staff members; evaluates and provides feedback to staff on an on-going basis; provides information for and implements scientifically based silvicultural recommendations; develops and prepares stewardship, cost-share, and stand plans; oversees contractors and crews on tree planting projects; protects forested land in accordance with the department's readiness plan; and enforces forest fire laws.

Minimum Qualifications: B.S. Degree in Forestry from a SAF-accredited college or university. Significant experience in technical and professional forestry work; experience directing the work of others and/or mentoring new staff members; knowledge of effective supervisory techniques and practices; excellent organizational skills; ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with personnel from various state and federal agencies, local planners, cooperators, and the public; public speaking skills and experience; demonstrated excellent written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills; valid driver's license; ability to negotiate different types of forested terrain on foot; ability to travel around the state and stay overnight on occasion; and experience with and ability to use a PC and Microsoft Office software required. Must have a Commercial Driver's License and Commercial Pesticide Applicators Permit.

Special Requirements: Within six months of hire, the successful candidate must live within the Work Area. As a responder on wildfires, must be willing and able to be on-call during Spring and Fall fire seasons. Must pass moderate physical fitness test, per Federal guidelines. The test consists of walking 2 miles in 30 minutes carrying a 25-pound pack.

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