Job Description

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources is seeking an experienced and passionate candidate to serve as the Forester 2 position to join the Parks, Forestry and Preserves team at Stephens State Forest in Chariton, Iowa. The primary purpose of this position is to provide forest management on Stephens State Forest Lands to improve forest health and diversity in a sustainable manner in accordance with the forestry management plan.

Applicants may attach a Resume/Cover Letter to the online application.

The primary responsibilities for this position will be in four (4) different areas:

• 
  Resource Management: Provide professional forest management on the State Forest so that the forest and related resources are maintained in a healthy, diverse and sustainable manner. This includes maintaining and following the management plan for the forest by keeping information up to date by keeping GIS database and associated records up to date and develop long range plans for work and development on the forest. The position is also responsible for laying out, scheduling and seeing that natural resource management and recreation management work is completed. Plan and provide leadership in protecting the forest from wildfire, insects, disease and other damaging agents.

• 
  Administration: Perform administrative tasks related to State Forest operations so that programs are carried out efficiently. This includes maintaining information on equipment, material and operations so as to be able to plan and execute programs and provide information to the supervisor. Make necessary expenditures to implement programs while following policies and procedures. Submit required reports in a timely manner, maintain records in accordance with procedure, and respond to public inquiry.

• Operations: Direct the work of other area personnel and volunteers, which includes work scheduling and monitoring. Monitor safety training, ppe condition, and equipment safety features so that all are up to date and function appropriately. Oversee the maintenance of facilities, roads, trails and other infrastructure and equipment

• Public Relations: Manage a public relations program which creates awareness of the importance of Iowa’s forest resource, of forestry programs and of the state forest. Use classroom environments, direct public contact, print and electronic media

Essential Functions:

• Manage for healthy, sustainable forest and prairies by increasing age and species diversity, promoting native species. Control non-natives invasive species and by increasing the quality, quantity and connectivity of public forestlands in Iowa.
• Ensure a sustainable flow of timber and non-timber forest products for the public benefit while promoting vigor by applying proper management techniques. Forest stand improvement techniques and regeneration systems are used to enhance tree growth rages, regenerate mature and declining stand and improve forest health.
• Create and maintain forest management demonstrations and research areas to increase public awareness of the value and role of forests in Iowa. The state forests will establish demonstration areas, host field days and seek partnerships with supporting agencies and groups to promote forestry education and awareness.
• Maintain and improve wildlife habitat for game and non-game species by utilizing forest stand improvement techniques to improve mast production. Manage prairie and grassland habitats by using prescribed fire to promote diversity. Identify, study and preserve unique habitats and threatened and endangered species.
• Create and enhance primitive, low-impact recreational opportunities by providing trails, camping facilities, backpacking, bird watching, hunting, fishing, and other noninvasive.
• Enhance water quality by protecting watersheds and preventing soil loss. This can be accomplished by employing sound conservation practices, establishing riparian buffers and using Best Management Practices (BMP’s) in all forest management operations.

Critical Job Competencies
Accountability, Integrity, High Productivity, Customer Focus, Team Player, Interpersonal Skills, Communication Skills, Computer Skills, Self-Management, Technical (forest health)

The starting salary for new state (Executive Branch) employees will be at the base of the pay range. Additional salary increases may occur after the first six months, and then annually (if applicable). The State’s total compensation package features an outstanding set of employee benefits that are worth about 30% of your total compensation.
For more information about DNR Employment Opportunities and position specific notices, please visit the DNR Employment website.

The State of Iowa is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
The DNR seeks to hire individuals who wish to support our mission, which is to conserve and enhance our natural resources in cooperation with individuals and organization, to improve the quality of life in Iowa and ensure a legacy for future generations.

Minimum Qualification Requirements

Graduation from an accredited college or university with major coursework in forestry.

For additional information, please click on this link to view the job description. (Download PDF reader)

Additional Qualification Requirements

Designated positions in this job class require applicants to obtain a Pesticide Applicators License as issued by the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship within a period of time as determined by the appointing authority at the time of hire.

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