FIA Forester

North Carolina; Asheville (NC); On-site; USD 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

The North Carolina Forest Service seeks an FIA Forester to manage forest resources, perform data collection, and ensure high standards in forest inventory. This entry-level role involves outdoor work in diverse terrains and requires effective communication skills. The position offers a state vehicle and uniform, with opportunities for professional growth through training.

Benefits

Official NC Forest Service uniform

State vehicle

Qualifications

• Professional knowledge of forestry principles and measurement techniques.
• Ability to identify North Carolina tree species and vegetation.

Responsibilities

• Performing and supervising forest resource data collection.
• Classifying stand history and conducting tree volume measurements.
• Conducting ancillary studies to improve data collection.

Skills

Communication

Remote Sensing

GPS

Data Collection

Computer Skills

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Forestry

Job description

Join to apply for the FIA Forester role at State of North Carolina

The North Carolina Forest Service is designated as an emergency response division, providing forest protection, resource management, and environmental education to residents and landowners across North Carolina through various programs. The service covers all 100 counties in the state.

The Inventory Forester role involves:

1. Performing and supervising forest resource data collection, including locating plots using GPS and aerial photos, establishing permanent sample plots, and identifying biota.
2. Classifying stand history, conducting standing tree volume measurements, and producing reports.
3. Interpreting aerial photographs, maintaining measurement instruments, and coordinating felled-tree volume studies.
4. Conducting ancillary studies to improve data collection and modeling, and canvassing industries for timber output data.

This position requires effective communication skills, interaction with the public and professionals, and may involve firefighting duties, including potential participation in the NC Incident Management Team.

Work conditions include occasional heavy lifting, adverse weather, rough terrain, and environmental hazards. Some work hours may include evenings, holidays, or weekends, and overnight travel is required, including camping in the Great Smokey Mountains National Park.

Residency requirements are discussed during the interview. The duty station is located at 14 Gaston Mountain Road, Asheville, NC 28806. The role includes providing an official NC Forest Service uniform, a state vehicle, and requires a valid NC Driver's License within 30 days of hire.

The candidate must complete USDA Forest Service FIA training and maintain high data collection standards. Benefits information is available here. The application process involves submitting a complete online application, with all education and experience details; resumes are not accepted in lieu of application details.

Qualifications include:

• Professional knowledge of forestry principles and measurement techniques.
• Knowledge of the Forest Inventory & Analysis program.
• Ability to identify North Carolina tree species and vegetation.
• Remote sensing skills, GPS and electronic data recorder proficiency.
• Effective computer skills and communication abilities.
• Ability to work in steep, rough terrain across diverse landscapes.

Preferred qualifications include:

• Forest Inventory and Analysis Certification and related training.
• Experience with USFS Forest Inventory and Analysis Field Manual 9.0.
• Experience with USFS SRS/FIA Field Tree Surveys.

Applicants can qualify through education and experience, with a bachelor's degree in forestry from an SAF-accredited institution or equivalent experience. Registration as a Forester from the NC Board must be obtained within two years if not already registered.

Additional information on employment benefits, application instructions, veteran's preference documentation, and pre-employment requirements (drug testing, DMV physicals, medical certifications) are provided in the original posting.

For questions, contact 919-707-3201.

Details

• Seniority level: Entry level
• Employment type: Full-time
• Job function: Science

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