Overview
Title: Forestry Technician
Status: Seasonal employee. Average 40 hours per week.
Location: Salmon, Idaho
Reports to: Associate Director, Jenny Gonyer
Performance Dates: June 3 – Sept 27, 2023. October extension dependent on project funds.
Position Summary:
The Forestry Technician’s duties at Salmon Valley Stewardship will primarily focus on conducting natural regeneration surveys, assisting with planting units layouts, thinning unit layouts, cone surveys, cone collection, and other forestry related projects as needed near Salmon, Idaho. The majority of the technicians time will be spent in the field performing surveys to determine post wildfire stand conditions, identifying timber types, ground vegetation, insect and disease damage. Other time will be spent entering and checking data or helping with other SVS natural resource program activities. The start and end dates for this position are dependent on funding, site access and weather conditions. Work will start with training in June with Forest Service partners, and project completion early fall. Position may be extended through October if funding is available. This position will entail working independently in the field.
Position Description:
Performs surveys to determine stand conditions, needs for reforestation and the need for precommercial thinning and/or treatment.
Collects data on density and condition of trees and ground vegetation; insect, disease, and animal damage of stands.
Assist in layout, flagging and GPS’ing perimeters for thinning and planting unit polygons.
Assist with cone surveys to flag trees for cone collection efforts.
Ability to remove fallen trees from roadway to access work sites using chainsaws and/or other tools safely.
Performs safe working practices often solo. The work is performed in a forest environment where terrain may be uneven, rocky, and covered with thick vegetation. Climatic conditions range from extremely hot and dry to extremely cold and wet. Rain, snow, wind, or dust may be encountered. The work involves regular and recurring risks or discomforts that require safety precautions or the use of safety equipment such as boots, gloves, goggles, and hardhats.
Qualifications:
Qualifications:
Knowledge of common tree species and basic ground vegetation in the Pacific Northwest is ideal.
Knowledge of common forestry practices to perform exams competently is preferable.
Possess skills suitable for working and camping in remote and rugged outdoor environments with variable weather, sometimes alone.
A safe driving record, high comfort level with operating a 4-wheel-drive vehicle on rough roads.
Ability to use chainsaws and/or other tools to remove fallen debris
Preferred Skills:
A high level of physical fitness (ability to hike up to 5-10 miles with a light pack daily).
The ability to use a hand-held GPS device and data recording devices such as a tablet.
Self-motivation and initiative, organization and efficiency.
Willingness to work flexible hours to accommodate field days when necessary.
Ability to work independently and cooperatively in a team environment.
Ability to train volunteers in various monitoring protocols and plant identification.
About Salmon Valley Stewardship
Salmon Valley Stewardship works to promote a sustainable economy and productive working landscapes in the Salmon River region of Central Idaho. Our vision is a community where stewardship of the natural resources is at the core of the social, economic and ecological vitality of the region.
