Forest Conservation Technician

The Nature Conservancy•Asheville, NC

3d•$18 - $18•Hybrid

About The Position

The Forest Conservation Technician (FCT) is a field-based conservation position that will work on TNC preserves and partner lands across the Southern Blue Ridge mountains related to Helene recovery efforts and other forest conservation priorities. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS With this position, FCT will conduct various land management duties including but not limited to: Treating non-native invasive plant species Forest stand improvement, including midstory removal and vine control Wetland restoration, including woody seedling removal Collecting forest inventory and monitoring data Stand layout and planning Marking/flagging trees for release Herbicide application for NNIS and silviculture Pre- and post-treatment efficacy surveys Using GPS device and/or GIS applications for data collection, surveying, and planning purposes Work both independently and under close supervision Provide technical support, including interdisciplinary support, to Southern Blue Ridge colleagues and partners RESPONSIBILITIES & SCOPE Completes assigned tasks within an agreed upon timeframe May work in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, on difficult and hazardous terrain, and under physically demanding circumstances Requires considerable physical exertion and/or muscular strain May require long hours in isolated settings May work with other TNC staff and partners on collaborative projects May work under infrequent supervision Makes day-to-day decisions as delegated by supervisor Maintains regular communication with supervisor Submits expenses and time sheets within a timely manner Ensures self-preparedness and safety are maintained at all times Attend in-person training events or complete virtual trainings as requested This position is a temporary, full-time position and is based in Asheville, North Carolina and reports to the Southern Blue Ridge Forest Ecologist. The position will last approximately ten weeks and will begin as early as May 26, 2026, and end no later than August 14, 2026. Work will primarily be in the field but may require working at TNC office or shop or at a home office. The FCT will work at times in remote areas spanning from Jackson County north to Ashe County. Housing is not provided. Some locations where FCT will work will require overnight travel. Travel expenses, such as food and lodging, will be covered by The Nature Conservancy. This position requires a valid driver's license and compliance with TNC’s Auto Safety Program. The hourly compensation is $18 per hour. Are you looking for a career to help people and nature? Guided by science, TNC creates innovative, on-the-ground solutions to our world’s toughest challenges so that people and nature can thrive together. We’re looking for someone who is passionate, motivated problem-solver. Come join TNC and apply today! The ideal candidate should be passionate about applying principles of forest ecology and conservation and have some experience working or learning in Southern Appalachian forest ecosystems. Candidates must be located in or near Asheville, North Carolina if hired, and will primarily work in the field or from their home office. This position is not eligible for relocation or immigration assistance.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED and 6 months of related experience
Currently enrolled for at least one year in a college degree program majoring in forestry, natural resources, or related fields or equivalent experience
Ability to obtain a driver’s license, maintain a good driving record, and provide your own transportation to TNC office/shop locations
Familiarity with native tree species, other types of plants, and ecosystems common to the Southern Appalachians
Familiarity with common forest measurements practices and tools

Nice To Haves

Tree identification skills for common Southern Appalachian tree species
Basic forest measurements skills and experience with common forestry tools (diameter tape, clinometer, compass, increment borer, etc.)
Ability to identify non-native invasive plant species common to the Southern Appalachians
Experience treating non-native invasive plant species using herbicides and hand tools
Experience driving on unpaved woods roads
Experience with using a mobile device or tablet equipped with GIS/GPS systems
Ability to follow instructions from colleagues/coworkers/team members
Ability to work in a team environment
Ability to work independently in remote locations

Responsibilities

Completes assigned tasks within an agreed upon timeframe
May work in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, on difficult and hazardous terrain, and under physically demanding circumstances
Requires considerable physical exertion and/or muscular strain
May require long hours in isolated settings
May work with other TNC staff and partners on collaborative projects
May work under infrequent supervision
Makes day-to-day decisions as delegated by supervisor
Maintains regular communication with supervisor
Submits expenses and time sheets within a timely manner
Ensures self-preparedness and safety are maintained at all times
Attend in-person training events or complete virtual trainings as requested

Benefits

TNC offers a competitive, comprehensive benefits package including health care benefits, flexible spending accounts, a 401(k) plan with an 8% employer match, parental leave, accrued paid time off, life insurance, disability coverage, employee assistance program, other life and work well-being benefits.

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