Forestry Assistant

Parker-Ranch-Inc; Waimea/Kamuela (HI); On-site; USD 42,000 - 62,000; Full time

Job summary

Parker Ranch Inc. in Hawaii seeks a Forestry Assistant to implement day-to-day timber operations across native koa and ohia stands, plus non-native species management. You will work under the Forestry Manager in challenging, remote locations.

Responsibilities include planting, invasive species control, fence maintenance, timber salvage, stand management, fire mitigation, field research, and project implementation with a strong emphasis on safety and adaptability.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• 1 year of experience related to natural resource management, forestry, timber management, nursery operations, plant biology, etc.

Responsibilities

• Timber management duties across Parker Ranch's assets.
• Tree planting and care; invasive species control.
• Fence construction and maintenance.
• Salvage timber harvesting and timber stand management.
• Forest fire mitigation and response; field research and project implementation.

Skills

Adaptability

Multitasking

Attention to detail

Teamwork

Education

High school diploma or GED

1 year of related natural resource management experience

Tools

GPS devices

GIS data collection

Chainsaws & handheld tools

Off-road vehicle operation

Driver's license

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.