Deputy Regional Forester — Forest Management & Fire Ops

Virginia Department of Forestry; Virginia (MN); Hybrid; USD 78,000 - 93,000; Full time

Job summary

The Virginia Department of Forestry is seeking a Deputy Regional Forester to direct field operations in the Eastern Region, supervising four District Foresters and three program specialists. The role coordinates forest management, health, cost share programs, water quality, outreach and wildfire protection.

The position reports to the Eastern Region Forester and requires leadership in safety and training. Located in Providence Forge with limited telework, the role requires travel, regional

Qualifications

• Knowledge of silviculture, forest measurements and management plans.
• Experience implementing state & federal cost share programs.
• Training or knowledge in wildland fire suppression strategies and tactics.
• Proficiency with a PC and Microsoft Office, especially Excel.
• Training or knowledge of supervisory techniques.
• Effective oral, written and interpersonal communication skills.
• Presentation skills and ability to lead training programs.
• Experience building partnerships with NGOs, schools and government entities.
• Valid driver's license or ability to obtain one.
• Ability to negotiate challenging forest terrain on foot.

Responsibilities

• Manage region's participation in agency programs including forest protection, fire prevention, forest management and cost share.
• Evaluate program effectiveness and customer needs to improve operations.
• Supervise three program specialists and four district foresters.
• Set and track regional and district performance measures.
• Review and approve forest management plans.
• Lead regional safety program and guide safety committee.
• Manage wildfire response preparedness and training, credentialing and reports.
• Support regional hiring, onboarding, mentoring and training.
• Develop partnerships with state agencies, localities and NGOs.

Skills

Oral and written communication

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft Office

Team collaboration tools

Supervisory techniques

Education

Virginia Pesticide Applicators License

Tools

PC

Microsoft Teams

Microsoft Office

Job description

The Virginia Department of Forestry is seeking a Deputy Regional Forester to direct field operations in the Eastern Region, supervising four District Foresters and three program specialists. The role coordinates forest management, health, cost share programs, water quality, outreach and wildfire protection.

The position reports to the Eastern Region Forester and requires leadership in safety and training. Located in Providence Forge with limited telework, the role requires travel, regional