Forest Conservation Technician

The Nature Conservancy • Asheville, NC

2d • $18 - $18

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

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
• Ability to follow instructions from colleagues/coworkers/team members
• Ability to work in a team environment
• Ability to work independently in remote locations

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

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.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED