Good Neighbor Authority Program Manager

Virginia Information Technologies Agency•Salem, VA

11d•$90,000 - $107,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Virginia Department of Forestry is hiring a Program Manager to lead implementation of Good Neighbor Authority agreements, including the Forest Disaster Recovery Agreement addressing impacts from Hurricane Helene. The position works with the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests, Department of Forestry program managers, contractors, and other partners to coordinate resources and expertise for project management, planning, analysis, implementation, and assessment in the recovery area. At least 50% of the role is spent providing onsite oversight and inspecting project proposals and implementation work; the remaining time is devoted to administering, reporting on, and approving work in progress and completed projects. The Program Manager reports to the Chief of Operations and carries out agency objectives under the Forest Disaster Recovery Good Neighbor Agreement and similar current or future agreements. The position serves a broad area of southwestern Virginia and the Shenandoah Valley, covering most counties in the Western Region and the northwestern area of the Central Region. The office may be in Charlottesville, Salem, Galax, or Abingdon. The role includes fieldwork in forested, rough, muddy terrain and all weather conditions, as well as travel around Virginia and occasional overnight stays. The position is restricted and funded solely through the Virginia Department of Forestry Disaster Recovery Good Neighbor Agreement with the George Washington and Jefferson National Forest for a 10-year period through August 25, 2036; continued employment depends on the availability of grant or other non-general funds. As an Emergency Response agency employee, the Program Manager may be called upon to support emergency situations, including at night, on weekends, or on holidays.

Requirements

Demonstrated knowledge of tree species, silvics of Virginia native tree species, forest soils, forest measurements and biometrics, timber markets, and timber cruising and valuation.
Knowledge of solicitation, contracting, facilitation, and administration of project work in compliance with State processes.
Ability to communicate, coordinate, and facilitate or implement multiple projects simultaneously.
Ability to use standard forester's tools, including an increment borer, diameter tape, prism, and clinometer, to cruise timber stands.
Knowledge of forest harvesting systems, Virginia's Silvicultural Best Management Practices for Water Quality, the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), and other permitting requirements.
Ability to monitor and document project work and subaward activities and ensure procurement procedures align with Federal, State, local, and Tribal government law.
Ability to work independently and strong organizational skills.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with state and federal agencies, local planners, partners, cooperators, and the public.
Demonstrated excellent written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills.
Ability to use a PC and Microsoft Office software.
Ability to negotiate forested and rugged terrain on foot in all types of weather.
Ability to travel around the state and stay overnight occasionally.
Valid Virginia driver's license or ability to obtain one before starting with the agency.

Nice To Haves

Willingness and a proven record of collaboration.
Training or experience with Geographic Information Systems, GPS use, online mapping tools, and basic forest surveying.
Experience overseeing federal awards.
Experience or training in applied silviculture, forest management techniques, and project management.

Responsibilities

Provide professional forestry advice and technical assistance for forest management projects under the agreement.
Administer and report accomplishments and grant deliverables.
Develop, solicit, and manage contracts or subawards for project work in coordination with other Department of Forestry staff.
Monitor agreements and maintain consistent communication with Department of Forestry and U.S. Forest Service staff regarding project implementation and completion.
Submit and approve itemized invoices that meet agreement requirements.
Collaborate with the U.S. Forest Service, Department of Forestry staff, partners, and sub-awardees to develop an annual plan of operations.
Coordinate inspections for compliance with Virginia's Silvicultural Water Quality Law and other permit requirements for projects on Forest Service property and other lands.
Provide onsite oversight and inspect project proposals and implementation work.
Administer, report on, and approve in-process and completed project work.
Support the agency during emergency situations as needed, including nights, weekends, or holidays.