Forest Technician, Plantation Assessment

Job Purpose

Under the direct supervision of the Forester, Plantation Assessment, the incumbent is responsible for conducting forest plantation assessments and drafting Logging Plans for scheduled harvestable plantations. He/she regularly updates the forest plantation database as directed, and conducts standing volume and/or scaling related activities in compliance with the Agency’s standard operating procedures. 

Key Responsibility Areas:

Administrative Responsibilities 

• Provides inputs for the operational plans, budget, and the setting of priorities for the Branch; 
• Develops individual work plans that are aligned with organizational goals and objectives;
• Prepares and submit forest plantation assessment reports with the relevant data to support timber and non-timber forest extraction and other related activities; 
• Prepares and submits progress reports in accordance with the agreed work plan;
• Prepares individual performance plans with clearly articulated and agreed performance targets; 

Technical Responsibilities 

• Conducts volume assessment in Forest plantations island wide, according to specified inventory protocol; 
• Assists in locating permanent field plots using GPS equipment and ArcGIS collector;
• Provides technical assistance to Forest Operations and Legal and Enforcement officers in relation to conducting scale log and board foot measurements; 
• Updates and maintains forest plantation status database; 
• Generates data for annual and other technical reports on forest resource assets;
• Retrieves, collates, and processes forest mensuration data for use in Logging Plans, Harvesting Plans, Forest Management Plans, and plantation assessment reports and /or project development; 
• Implements best forest plantation assessments and extraction methods based on departmental protocols (SOPs/ manuals/ etc.);
• Adheres to a standard approach in verifying the reliability of assessed volumetric data;
• Maps forest plantation areas; 
• Assist in the development and administration of standard lumber/board foot measurement techniques for use; 
• Participates in environmental studies and the preparation of environmental reports for forest plantations; 
• Provides technical support in volume assessment to external clients and stakeholders;
• Assists with the conducting of forest resource inventory and valuation in Forest Estates as requested; 
• Assist with the valuation of forest resources; 
• Participates in the Agency’s public education and awareness program;
• Any other duties that may be assigned from time to time, by/via the divisional head; 

REQUIRED COMPETENCIES:

Technical 

• Strong data collection and analytical skills; 
• Ability to understand and use topographic maps, GPS, compass, and aerial photos for road navigation; 
• Sound knowledge of general safety (CPR and First Aid); 
• Understanding and experience with basic field forestry skills related to mensuration techniques; 
• Ability to use MS Office productivity tools efficiently and effectively (Excel, Word etc.); 

Behavioral 

• Ability to work under pressure to meet specific deadlines; 
• Ability to build partnerships in achieving operational goals; 
• Effective oral and written communication skills; 
• Ability to establish and maintain strong relationships; 
• Ability to be flexible and adaptable; 
• Effective interpersonal skills; 
• Problem solving and decision-making skills; 

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

• Associate Degree in Forestry, Agriculture, Natural Science, Environmental Management, or related area 
• Two (2) years’ field experience in a related area 

OR 

• Any other acceptable combination of qualifications and experience

SPECIAL CONDITIONS ASSOCIATED WITH THE JOB:

• Expected to travel island wide; 
• May be expected to work on weekends, public holidays, and late nights
• Expected to work outdoors under rigorous and physically challenging conditions
• Driver’s License 

We thank all persons who express an interest; however, only short-listed applicants will be contacted.