FORESTER

State of Arkansas•Malvern, AR

About The Position

As the largest industry in Arkansas, the Arkansas Department of Agriculture is dedicated to the development and implementation of policies and programs for Arkansas agriculture and forestry to keep its farmers and ranchers competitive in national and international markets while ensuring safe food, fiber, and forest products for the citizens of the state and nation. The Department is organized into five Divisions: Forestry Division, Livestock and Poultry Division, Natural Resources Division, Plant Industries Division, and Shared Services Division. The Forester is responsible for managing and protecting forest resources in Arkansas through sustainable forestry practices, conservation programs, wildfire prevention, and landowner assistance. This position involves conducting forest inventory assessments, timber management planning, wildfire suppression efforts, and public education initiatives.

Requirements

Must pass an annual physical standard as a condition of employment.
Must reside within assigned area or within 30-minute drive from workstation as a condition of employment.
Satisfaction of the minimum qualifications, including years of experience and service, does not entitle employees to automatic progression within the job series. Promotion to the next classification level is at the discretion of the department and the Office of Personnel Management, taking into consideration the employee’s demonstrated skills, competencies, performance, workload responsibilities, and organizational needs.
Must be licensed as a Registered Forester in the state of Arkansas or obtain registration within one year of employment.
Strong understanding of silviculture, forest ecology, and timber management.
Proficiency in GIS mapping, GPS technology, and remote sensing applications.
Knowledge of wildfire behavior, fire suppression techniques, and emergency response protocols.
Experience with tree identification, soil analysis, and forest inventory techniques.
Skill in assessing forest conditions and developing management solutions.
Capability to conduct precise forestry measurements, documentation, and compliance reviews.
Federal and state forestry programs available for forest landowners, communities and fire departments.
Plan and coordinate work activities and monitor performance of subordinates.
Prepare and make public presentations and conduct forestry training.
Collect data, analyze needs assessments, and prepare written forest management recommendations for private and public forest landowners.
Proficient in written and oral communications.

Nice To Haves

Ability to work under extreme weather conditions, rough terrain, and potentially hazardous and/or dangerous conditions.
May be required to work under extended subject-to-call status and extended work hours.
Possess a valid Arkansas Commercial Driver's License (CDL) or the ability to procure one.

Responsibilities

Develop and implement forest management plans based on best practices for sustainability.
Conduct forest inventory assessments, tree measurements, and growth studies.
Provide technical assistance to landowners on timber harvesting, reforestation, and conservation practices.
Monitor forest health, invasive species, and pest management concerns.
Support state and federal conservation programs, grants, and reforestation efforts.
Participate in wildfire detection, suppression, and post-fire rehabilitation efforts.
Conduct prescribed burns and fuel reduction activities to minimize fire risks.
Train and assist local fire departments in wildfire prevention strategies.
Operate and maintain firefighting equipment, tools, and protective gear.
Educate landowners and community members on sustainable forestry, fire prevention, and land management.
Conduct workshops, field visits, and presentations to promote best forestry practices.
Serve as a liaison between the state forestry agency, landowners, logging professionals, and conservation organizations.
Ensure compliance with Arkansas forestry laws, environmental regulations, and fire codes.
Maintain accurate forestry records, reports, and GIS mapping data.
Assist with timber sale inspections, harvest monitoring, and compliance reviews.
Utilize remote sensing, GPS, and other forestry technology to support decision-making.
Serves as hiring official in assigned county/counties.
Frequent exposure to hazardous conditions while fighting wildfires.
May be required to work under extended subject-to-call status and extended work hours.