ForestWise Consulting is seeking dedicated and skilled Forest Technicians to join our team. This is an hourly position with a pay range of $15 to $22 per hour, depending on experience.

Company Description:

ForestWise Consulting is a full-service forestry consulting firm based in central Kentucky, dedicated to providing comprehensive forest management and assessment services to a diverse clientele. We specialize in working directly with private landowners but also serve federal and state agencies, NGOs, non-profits, and academic institutions. Our mission is to promote sustainable forestry practices that enhance the ecological, economic, and social benefits of forests, ensuring their health and productivity for future generations.

Position Overview:

As a Forest Technician, you will spend the majority of your time in the field, executing forest management plans directly in the woods. This position involves work throughout central and southern Kentucky, with commutes of up to (and sometimes exceeding) two hours from the Louisville area to be expected. Your primary responsibilities will include:

• Invasive Species Control: Applying herbicides and other methods to manage and eradicate invasive plant species.
• Timber Stand Improvement and Midstory Removal: Implementing practices to improve the quality and composition of timber stands by conducting targeted thinning of forest understories to promote healthy growth and enhance forest structure.
• Crop Tree Release: Enhancing forest stand composition by identifying and releasing select trees from competition.
• Wildlife Habitat Improvement: Enhancing habitats for wildlife through targeted vegetation management and structure installation.
• Data Collection & Forest Inventory: Measuring tree growth, conducting forest inventories, and collecting data for analysis and reporting.

Key Responsibilities:

• Perform fieldwork that requires extensive time spent outdoors, often in remote forested areas.
• Utilize herbicides and chainsaws as part of daily tasks, ensuring effective and safe application.
• Operate within established forest management plans, ensuring accurate and thorough execution of forestry practices.
• Accurately document and report field activities.
• Collaborate with the team to adapt and optimize management strategies as needed.

Work Schedule:

• The typical work schedule is Monday through Friday, 40 hours per week. However, flexibility is required as inclement weather or other interruptions may necessitate adjustments to the schedule.

Physical Demands:

• This position requires physical stamina and the ability to work in rugged outdoor conditions, including lifting heavy equipment, hiking over uneven terrain, and working in varying weather conditions.

Safety Requirements:

• The technician will be required to follow all safety protocols, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and adherence to OSHA standards.

Training and Development:

• ForestWise Consulting offers ongoing training and professional development opportunities, including certifications and workshops related to forest management.

Qualifications:

• Experience in forestry, natural resource management, or a related field is preferred.
• Ability to obtain a Kentucky Pesticide License is required.
• Proficient in the use of herbicides, chainsaws, and other forestry tools and equipment is preferred.
• Strong understanding of forest management practices, including invasive species control, timber stand improvement, midstory removal, and crop tree release.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in various outdoor environments and weather conditions.
• Must have reliable personal transportation.
• Valid driver’s license.

Diversity and Inclusion:

• ForestWise Consulting is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.

Why Join ForestWise Consulting?

• Opportunity to work with a passionate team dedicated to sustainable forest management.
• Gain hands-on experience in all facets of forest management with significant time spent in the field.
• Competitive hourly wage with the potential for growth based on experience.
• Potential for retention into year-round employment based on performance and company needs.

How to Apply:

Interested candidates should submit their resume and a brief cover letter detailing their experience and qualifications to Logan.Nutt@ForestWiseConsulting.com Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.