Forestry Technician

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; On-site; ZAR 180,000 - 320,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Safety gear provided

Specialized forestry training

Conservation impact

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Forestry Technician to support forest management in the Richards Bay area. You will conduct field inventories, monitor forest health, and assist in silvicultural activities alongside experienced foresters.

This hands-on role requires practical fieldwork, GPS data collection, and accurate environmental data recording under varied weather and terrain. A National Diploma or equivalent in Forestry or Environmental Management plus at least two years' experience is expected,

Qualifications

• Diploma/degree in Forestry or Environmental Management.
• Minimum 2 years practical forestry fieldwork or related enviro role.
• Ability to work outdoors in varied weather and terrain.
• Experience using GPS for mapping and data collection.

Responsibilities

• Conduct forest inventories: tree measurements, species ID, forest health.
• Plan and execute silvicultural activities: planting, thinning, pruning.
• Monitor pests, diseases, and fire hazards; report findings.
• Collect environmental data on soil, water, biodiversity.
• Operate and maintain forestry equipment and GPS devices.
• Assist in forest management plans and conservation strategies.

Skills

Observational skills

Attention to detail

Data recording

Outdoor work

Education

National Diploma in Forestry or Environmental Management

Tools

GPS devices

Measuring tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client is looking for a diligent and observant Forestry Technician to support their forest management initiatives in the Richards Bay area. This role is crucial for the sustainable management and conservation of forest resources, involving field data collection, monitoring forest health, and assisting in reforestation efforts. The successful candidate will work under the guidance of foresters, applying technical skills to ensure the long-term vitality and productivity of forest ecosystems. This is a hands-on position for an individual passionate about conservation, fieldwork, and contributing to environmental sustainability within the forestry sector.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct forest inventories, including tree measurements, species identification, and assessment of forest health.
• Assist in the planning and execution of silvicultural activities, such as planting, thinning, and pruning operations.
• Monitor forest areas for pests, diseases, and fire hazards, reporting findings promptly.
• Collect and record environmental data related to soil, water, and biodiversity within forest ecosystems.
• Operate and maintain forestry equipment, including GPS devices, measuring tools, and basic vehicles.
• Assist in the development and implementation of forest management plans and conservation strategies.

Requirements

• National Diploma or equivalent qualification in Forestry, Environmental Management, or a related field.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in practical forestry fieldwork or a related environmental role.
• Proficiency in tree identification, forest mensuration techniques, and basic ecological principles.
• Experience using GPS technology for mapping and data collection in field conditions.
• Ability to work effectively outdoors in various weather conditions and terrain.
• Strong observational skills and attention to detail for accurate data recording.

Benefits

• Competitive salary based on qualifications and experience.
• Comprehensive medical aid benefits.
• Provision of work-related gear and safety equipment.
• Opportunities for specialized training in forestry and conservation techniques.
• A rewarding role contributing to environmental conservation efforts.