Program Specialist 2 - Urban and Community Forestry Program Manager

State of Montana • Missoula, MT

5h

About The Position

The Urban and Community Forestry (UCF) Program Manager leads the planning and implementation of Montana’s UCF Program. This position drives statewide efforts to help communities manage and enhance their urban forest resources through financial assistance, technical guidance, training, and strategic partnerships.

As Montana’s lead for implementing the USDA Forest Service’s UCF grant program within state, tribal, and private forestry, the Program Manager ensures program alignment with the goals and priorities of the Montana Forest Action Plan. The Montana Forest Action Plan guides UCF planning and investment across the state. The Program Manager provides direction and support to DNRC Service Foresters and other field staff on the implementation of the UCF Program.

The Program Manager oversees the programs’ budget, grants, resources, and directly supervises two UCF Service Foresters and a Grant Management Specialist. The role also closely coordinates with division-level grant support staff to deliver community forestry grants efficiently and effectively. Importantly, the Program Manager will oversee the successful implementation of the UCF portion of the EPA Climate Pollution Reduction Grant totaling over $9 million.

Working collaboratively with DNRC leadership and partners, the Program Manager assesses statewide needs, develops strategic initiatives, and implements new programs, policies, and technologies to strengthen urban and community forestry in Montana. This includes managing contracts, monitoring project progress, resolving compliance issues, and providing technical consultation to communities and partners.

Building and maintaining strong relationships is essential. The Program Manager engages with community leaders, business and industry partners, tribes, nonprofits, and other federal and state resource agencies to advance community forestry initiatives. The position also represents the DNRC to the public and stakeholders by gathering input, communicating forest management strategies, and explaining agency policies and priorities.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in arboriculture, forestry or natural resources required plus a minimum of 3 years managing 2 people or more in a professional or business setting.
• Must be willing and able to be a certified arborist or attain the certification within 1 year.
• Candidates must be eligible to work in the United States.
• A valid driver's license is required with less than 12 conviction points in the most recent completed 36 months.

Responsibilities

• Program Management and Implementation: The Urban and Community Forestry (UCF) Program Manager leads statewide planning and implementation of Montana’s UCF Program. The position supports community forest management through strategic programming technical assistance, and financial support. It delivers the Urban and Community Forestry program across state guided by the Montana Forest Action Plan and Forestry Assistance Strategic Plan.
• Technical Assistance Partner and Community Outreach: The Urban and Community Forestry (UCF) Program Manager serves as DNRC’s subject matter expert for urban and community forestry, providing technical, educational, and professional support to staff, partners, and communities statewide. The position promotes effective management of Montana’s urban and community forests by delivering guidance, resources and training to DNRC staff, tribes, municipalities, and forestry professionals. The Program Manager also strengthens partnerships with tribal nations and organizations such as the Montana Urban and Community Forestry Association (MUCFA), volunteer groups, and educational institutions to advance public awareness and capacity in urban forest management.
• Program Administration: The Urban and Community Forestry (UCF) Program Manager administers all program resources to ensure effective operations, efficient use of staff and funding, fiscal accountability, and compliance with state and federal requirements. This leadership ensures the continued success of Montana’s UCF initiatives and alignment with USDA Forest Service State Private and Tribal grant agreements.
• Supervision: The Urban and Community Forestry (UCF) Program Manager provides direct supervision and leadership to two UCF Service Foresters and a Grant Management Specialist and oversees contracted temporary staff as needed. The Program Manager also provides project and program oversight for DNRC field staff contributing to UCF initiatives. This includes recruitment, training and performance management in accordance with DNRC and State of Montana personnel policies and employment law.

Benefits

• Work/life balance
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Retirement plans
• Generous paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays
• Pre-tax flexible spending accounts
• A vibrant Employee Assistance Program
• State of Montana employment may qualify you to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager