Field Forester – Tidewater (Home-Based)

Virginia Department of Forestry; Virginia (MN); On-site; USD 46,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Virginia Department of Forestry seeks a field forester to serve the Tidewater District, covering the Northern Neck and Middle Peninsula. The role is 100% mobile with a state vehicle, providing expert forestry assistance to landowners and implementing management plans.

The position emphasizes tree species knowledge, forest health, riparian buffers, and coordination with agencies to protect and develop Virginia's forests. Candidates must be able to travel and work in diverse terrain.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated knowledge of Virginia tree species, silvics, soils, and forest measurements.
• Experience or training establishing riparian buffers and planting trees.
• Experience or training in identifying forest health issues and using pest management strategies.
• Ability to develop scientific forest management plans.
• Ability to use standard forester tools (increment borer, diameter tape, prism, clinometer).
• Knowledge of Virginia silvicultural BMP for water quality.

Responsibilities

• Provide professional forestry assistance to landowners and support DOF mission.
• Assist landowners with management plans and site evaluations.
• Promote riparian buffer projects and connect landowners to cost-share programs.
• Respond to forest health issues and provide management advice.
• Coordinate with local governments and agencies; educate and outreach.
• Work in varied terrain and maintain safety and compliance with laws.

Skills

Tree species ID

Silvics knowledge

Riparian buffer installation

Pest management knowledge

Scientific forest management plans

Forester tools: increment borer

Forester tools: diameter tape

Forester tools: prism

Forester tools: clinometer

Microsoft Office

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Virginia Department of Forestry seeks a field forester to serve the Tidewater District, covering the Northern Neck and Middle Peninsula. The role is 100% mobile with a state vehicle, providing expert forestry assistance to landowners and implementing management plans.

The position emphasizes tree species knowledge, forest health, riparian buffers, and coordination with agencies to protect and develop Virginia's forests. Candidates must be able to travel and work in diverse terrain.