Forestry Technician

Saugeen Valley Conservation Authority
2023 Forestry Technician

Two full-time, permanent positions

Why work for us?
SVCA’s Administrative Office is situated in the heart of the Saugeen Valley watershed. We offer competitive public sector pay and the opportunity to make a difference in the communities we serve. With our small, but passionate team, you will know your co-workers by name and will have direct access to the considerable knowledge of these individuals.

Summary of Functions
SVCA’s Forestry Technicians are responsible for assisting the Manager of Forestry and Lands in field and office work related to our properties and those of private landowners. Responsibilities span a range of activities that include tree marking, planting, and the preparation of silvicultural prescriptions. They also engage in forest ecosystem inventory, mapping of forest stands, and infrastructure identification. Additionally, their duties involve herbicide application and contributing to the planning and execution of various projects, including development, restoration, and stewardship initiatives. Reporting directly to the Manager of Forestry and Lands, these technicians operate from the Formosa Office, where they also handle supervisory and other operational tasks related to land management.

Qualifications

• A technical diploma in Forestry
• Minimum two years of field experience as a Forestry Technician
• Ontario Tree Marker Certification in Hardwoods
• Licensed Pesticide Exterminator
• Certified Chainsaw Operator
• Managed Forest Plan Approver status
• Associate Professional Forester or Forester status with the Ontario Professional Foresters Association, considered an asset
• Valid class ‘G’ Ontario Driver’s License
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite
• Sound knowledge of forest management practices
• Experience and knowledge in the use and application of GIS and GPS systems
• Capability to perform manual labor
• Experience in conservation and restoration project implementation
• Property maintenance experience
• Working knowledge of stewardship, ecosystem restoration, agricultural soil, and water conservation practices
• Familiarity with flora and fauna species identification
• Ability to undertake field work under varying terrain and weather conditions
• Demonstrate tact and good judgement in interactions with staff and the public
• Basic knowledge of legislation and internal policies and procedures related to the workplace environment
• Well-developed communication skills, including drafting and editing written materials and articulating ideas clearly and concisely to various audiences
• Self-motivation with the capability to balance competing priorities and manage ambiguous situations

Duties and Responsibilities

• Assist the Manager of Forestry and Lands, the Lands Technician, and Operations Staff
• Conduct forest resource inventory field work and compile results into operating and management plans
• Coordinate and maintain a forest property database, including verification of property tax assessment values
• Create and implement silvicultural prescriptions for forest operations on private and Authority lands
• Coordinate and supervise forest harvest operations on private and Authority lands
• Create work schedules
• Plant and supervise the planting of seedling and landscape stock
• Provide landowner services regarding the Managed Forest Tax Incentive Program, forest management, tree marking, tree planting, and herbicide spraying
• Undertake technical aspects of assisting in the delivery and promotion of the Forestry Program
• Provide forestry expertise to other Authority departments and the public as required
• Undertake performance evaluations of staff under supervision
• Use GPS equipment to map and locate Conservation Authority owned forests and infrastructure
• Plan and execute a variety of initiatives, including engaging with landowners for best management practices, project development/implementation, invasive species removal, habitat restoration, and plant identification
• Work in the office to create mapping and assist with plans related to mapping
• Evaluate project success, write reports, map locations, and develop/review best management practices
• Apply for external grant funding to secure funds for Forestry and Lands projects, report back to funders, and maintain an internal grant database
• Use GPS equipment to map invasive species on Conservation Authority properties
• Maintain property and other facilities
• Perform duties in a professional, friendly, and courteous manner
• Operate weed eaters, riding lawnmowers, ATVs, gators, tractors, sprayers, saws, and other small tools
• Supervise other staff as required
• Work with communications staff on community education events and outreach activities
• Ensure work is conducted safely in compliance with all SVCA Health and Safety Policies
• Perform other duties as assigned appropriate to the responsibilities of the position

Work Environment and Conditions
This position requires work in an office environment as well as out-of-doors. The outdoor field work will require physical effort (e.g., extensive walking, navigating uneven terrain, heavy lifting, and working in various weather). In the event of flooding conditions, shift work may be required.

Location
SVCA’s Administrative Office, 1078 Bruce Road 12, Formosa, Ontario. Travel is normally within the Saugeen watershed, however meetings outside of the watershed may be required.

Wages & Benefits

• 37.5 hours per week, full-time, permanent
• Salary range: $64,095 -$75,944
• Comprehensive benefit package
• OMERS pension
• Enrolment in SVCA’s Employee Assistance Program

Start date:
February 12th, 2024

Closing date for applications:
January 10th, 2024

We thank all applicants for their interest, however only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

SVCA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In accordance with Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005 (AODA), SVCA will provide accommodations throughout the recruitment, selection and/or assessment process to applicants with disabilities. If you require disability – related accommodations or more information about accommodation, please visit: www.saugeenconservation.ca/access

All personal information is collected under the authority of the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (MFIPPA).

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Salary: $64,065.00-$75,944.00 per year

Benefits:

• Dental care
• Employee assistance program
• Extended health care
• Life insurance
• On-site parking
• Paid time off

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday

Work Location: In person