Lead Program Forester - Forest Management & Fire Protection

Minnesota Department of Human Services; Little Falls (MN); On-site; USD 65,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

Minnesota Department of Natural Resources in Little Falls, MN is seeking a Senior Program Forester to lead forestry programs, guide field assignments, and collaborate with regional teams in Mora and Little Falls.

This role focuses on directing timber management, silviculture, and wildfire protection, with responsibilities spanning private lands and state resources, while emphasizing policy compliance and staff leadership.

Qualifications

• BS in Forest Science/Management or SAF Certified Forester.
• 2 years of intermediate professional forest management with leadership roles OR 3 years of entry-level professional forest management with timber sale experience.
• Knowledge of forest management theory to plan field activities and lead staff.
• Knowledge of division policies covering fire suppression, timber sales, road building, and public/private forest management.
• Strong communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience coordinating with private landowners and other agencies.

Responsibilities

• Direct Camp Ripley timber management and forest inventory at Area level.
• Direct silviculture programs for Camp Ripley and Little Falls.
• Provide wildfire protection services and maintain fire equipment.
• Perform tasks under the lead of the Area Supervisor during peak activity periods.
• Participate in committees and policy development to expand programs.
• Lead Private Forest Management programs for the Little Falls Area.
• Coordinate Urban and Community Forest Management programs in the Little Falls Area.
• Support forestry outreach to improve public understanding of natural resources.

Skills

Forest management

Leadership

Communication

Contract administration

Fire suppression

Team supervision

Policy knowledge

Public relations

Education

BS in Forest Science/Management

SAF Certified Forester

Tools

ESRI GIS

Job description

Minnesota Department of Natural Resources in Little Falls, MN is seeking a Senior Program Forester to lead forestry programs, guide field assignments, and collaborate with regional teams in Mora and Little Falls.

This role focuses on directing timber management, silviculture, and wildfire protection, with responsibilities spanning private lands and state resources, while emphasizing policy compliance and staff leadership.