Forestry Assistant

Parker Ranch; Hawaii; On-site; USD 42,000 - 54,000; Full time

Job summary

Parker Ranch in Hawaii is seeking a Forestry Assistant to support day‑to‑day timber operations across diverse habitats, from koa and ohia stands to non‑native species. You will work under the Forestry Manager to implement planting, invasive species control, fence construction, salvage logging, stand management, and fire mitigation as part of the Sustainable Forestry Plan.

Ideal candidates are motivated, adaptable, and able to work in remote locations, often in rugged terrain.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED.
• 1 year of experience in natural resource management, forestry, timber management, or related fields.

Responsibilities

• Assist timber management under Parker Ranch's Sustainable Forestry Plan.
• Plant trees and care for seedlings.
• Control non-native invasive species.
• Construct and maintain fences.
• Salvage timber harvesting.
• Timber stand management and fire mitigation.
• Conduct research and support project implementation.

Skills

Field work

GPS data collection

GIS data collection

Chainsaw operation

Multi-tasking

Safety compliance

Driving off-road

Cultural sensitivity

Education

Highschool diploma or GED

Tools

GPS devices

Chainsaw safety

Off-road vehicle operation

Job description

Description

The primary function of the Forestry Assistant position will be to implement day-to-day forestry operations of the timber assets of Parker Ranch. This will include work in areas of the ranch with extensive native timber species such as koa (Acacia koa) and ohia (Metrosideros polymorpha), as well as areas that include non-native timber resources such as tropical ash (Fraxinus uhdei), sugi (Cryptomeria japonica), and various eucalyptus species. This position will work closely with, and under the direct supervision of, the Parker Ranch Forestry Manager.

A Forestry Assistant must be highly motivated, adaptable to a wide variety of changing work tasks, possess an eagerness to learn, and able to work in remote locations under a variety of environmental conditions. Forestry Assistants will focus on timber management duties in accordance with Parker Ranch's Sustainable Forestry Management Plans including tree planting and care, non-native invasive species control, fence construction and maintenance, salvage timber harvesting, timber stand management, forest fire mitigation and response, research, and general project implementation

Requirements

Education/Training:

• Highschool diploma or GED
• 1 year of experience of relevant work experience related to natural resource management, forestry, timber management, nursery operations, plant biology, etc.

Preferred Experience:

• Experience with field work/ labor in natural resource management operations in remote and rugged terrain, including fence construction, erosion control, native species propagation, restoration, surveys, animal control, and/or weed control
• Experience collecting field data and preparing reports.
• Experience collecting GPS and GIS data.
• Must be able to navigate extremely rugged terrain using maps, compass, and GPS.
• Experience using a variety of powered hand tools including chainsaws, drills, augers, etc.
• Demonstrated ability to multi-task and apply initiative and creativity on challenging projects.
• Experience working with Hawai'i’s natural systems, cultural resources, and management practices in sensitive areas. Experience with various communities and partners on Hawai?i Island and knowledge of how to navigate and work with sensitivity to cultural norms for successful results.
• Attention to detail and proven organizational skills.
• Managing time and diverse activities under deadlines while delivering quality results.
• Possess a valid driver’s license, and ability to drive standard transmission, 4×4, off-road vehicles, ATVs, UTVs, and trailers.
• Experience with herbicidal weed control techniques and regulations.
• Ability to obtain related licenses or certifications such as, Wilderness First Aid/CPR, Hawaii State Hunting License, Chainsaw safety, and Pesticide Applicator License.
• Ability to communicate effectively and adhere to safety protocols.
• Knowledge of the culture, ecology, plants, forests, streams, and birds of Hawai‘i.
• Eagerness and ability to learn new skills, new technology, and new information.
• Adaptable, dependable, honest, and hard-working.
• Able to maintain a cooperative attitude while working in inclement weather under difficult conditions.
• Flexible schedule to allow for week-long camping trips in remote areas and occasional weekend work.
• Represent the program in a professional manner when interacting with partners and the community.
• Lift and carry up to 50 lbs.
• Ability to hike up to ten miles.
• Act independently on assigned tasks and exercises independent judgements based on analysis, experience and judgement. Some weekend work is required.