Are you passionate about forestry, wildlife and environmental education? Do you enjoy the small office atmosphere, where coworkers develop friendships and share tasks spreading across multiple disciplines? Are you looking for a career that encompasses both in-office and field work? If so, consider joining our team as the new District Forester at Montcalm Conservation District (MCD).

Established in 1948, MCD is a local unit of government, whose mission is enhancing Montcalm County’s natural resources through conservation education, outreach, and partnerships. From cash crops and livestock to forests and grasslands, MCD services a primarily rural community. Partnering with organizations like the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), MSU Extension, 4-H, and more, MCD promotes efficient land use, increased soil health, improved water quality and overall positive stewardship of the land.

District Forester:
Full-time position, minimum 40 hours/week, $18 - $22/hour depending on qualifications. Comprehensive benefit package including paid holidays, sick and annual leave, health insurance reimbursement, MERS retirement program, mileage reimbursement and opportunities for training / skills development. Position requires intermittent time outside of regular office hours. Position is based in the Stanton USDA Service Center and reports to MCD’s District Manager.

This position stands to provide landowners with technical information regarding forestry, wildlife habitat and related natural resource concerns, so they may make informed decision about the use and management of their forestlands.

Job Duties:

• Assist MCD and NRCS staff.
• Attend board / committee meetings.
• Manage MCD’s 69-acre Comden-Towle Model Forest.
• Organize forestry related projects, events and workshops.
• Participate in grant reporting / writing.
• Serve as initial point of contact for forest management, wildlife habitat and related natural resource concern brought to MCD by private landowners, local governments etc.
• Provide on-site land examination and resource evaluations.
• Provide landowners with written follow-ups including any relevant resource materials.
• Advise on tree planting/reforestation for timber production, windbreaks, wildlife habitat, etc.
• Advise on insect, disease and pest management practices.
• Connect landowners with natural resource specialists regarding further technical and financial assistance.
• Provides technical input regarding species selection.
• Pursues/maintains certification with the State of Michigan for Pesticide Application.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Forestry or related field preferred. Experience and SAF (Candidate) Certified Forester accreditation may be considered in lieu of degree.
• Knowledge of forestry, wildlife habitat, and natural resource programs, policies, and issues preferred.
• Competence in MS Office and mapping programs.
• Ability to read various types of maps and navigate through properties accordingly.
• Ability to efficiently work outdoors (in varying conditions / rough terrain) and lift 30 lbs.
• Must have valid driver’s license. Use of a personal vehicle may be required.
• Must pass federal background check.

Additional Skills:

• Project Coordination
• Volunteer Management
• Public Speaking
• Communication: Written and Verbal
• Customer Service and Professionalism