Forest Development Tech Inern

Position Summary:

Incumbent works under the direct supervision of the Forest Development & Restoration Manger (supervisor). Routine supervision and technical duties are performed under direction of supervisor who specifies scope of project, objectives to be met and results expected. Instructions are provided for new or unusual aspect of work. Unusual or unprecedented situations are referred to the supervisor. Work is reviewed at appropriate intervals for technical adequacy, accomplishment of objectives and coordination with other Forestry section activities.

This job description is illustrative only of the responsibilities performed by this position and is not all inclusive.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Performs partial range of administrative duties on an as needed basis and as directed by Forest Development and Restoration Manager.
• Assists with data collection, data processing, and data analysis for all project activity relating to forest development or restoration.
• Assists with planning and coordination of the timber stand improvement program; assist with prescribing cutting practices based on an examination of stand conditions and aesthetic or other resource requirements; consults with others, such as wildlife specialist as required.
• Assists with planning and coordination of the reforestation program; assist with prescribing techniques in seed collection, site preparation, and tree planting to meet rigid silvicultural standards. Assures that other regimes of wildlife, cultural sites, aesthetics, etc., have been considered.
• Assists with coordinating with greenhouses and seed processors to ensure adequate seed supplies are being grown for reforestation needs and associated planting acreages and tree species.
• Assists with examining forest for disease and insect outbreaks and makes recommendations for treatments and preventative measures to ensure healthy forest conditions.
• Potential to assist in writing and developing contracts and working closely with many outside agencies on timber stand improvement, reforestation, and restoration projects.
• Potential to assist in preparation and creation of successful proposals to get additional funding for future projects and activities under forest development or restoration.
• Forest Development and Restoration assignments involve the full range of duties concerned with timber stand improvement, reforestation, forest pest detection and control, genetic tree improvement, ecological restoration, and administrative functions.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Ideal candidate has an in-depth knowledge of stand conditions, environmental considerations, forest ecological interrelationships, silvicultural and growth characteristics of the major forest cover types found on the Santa Clara reservation.
• Ideal candidate has basic knowledge of traditional Tribal cultural forest use values in order to effectively provide or obtain information to/from the general Indian population.
• Must possess effective written, verbal and communication.
• Must be a team player and positive leader.
• An in-depth knowledge of computer applications and basic software understanding including: Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, Power point, Access, and others.
• Knowledge of GIS and GPS technology and the ability to locate physical features on the ground and with digital mapping data.
• Basic knowledge of silvics, dendrology, reforestation methods, timber stand improvement principles and techniques, restoration treatment goals and objectives, and land management policies and procedures sufficient to review and/or assist in developing reforestation program and standards for a wide range of silvicultural situations.
• Basic knowledge of the interrelationship of physical factors such as climate and soil, and biological factors such as plant and animal associations, genetics, fungi, and soil micro-organisms, and their various influences on the type and timing of silvicultural treatments necessary and appropriate to achieve multiple-use land management objectives.
• Basic knowledge of forest disease and insect pathogens and the ability to prescribe treatments to reduce existing populations and to prevent additional attacks.
• Basic knowledge of fire behavior, wildfire pre-suppression and suppression activities.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• High School Diploma or GED equivalent
• Course work within a Bachelor of Science/Arts degree in Forestry, Ecosystem management, Natural Resources, or similar related field is strongly preferred, but will consider years of experience in the field in lieu of a course work within degree program;
• Ideal one to three years' experience in forestry/environmental practices;
• Valid New Mexico Driver's License and insurable through the Tribe's insurance carrier;
• Must not have any DUI/DWI convictions within the last five (5) years from any Tribal, State or Federal Court;
• Must pass a background check successfully; and
• Must pass a drug/alcohol screening.

PHYSICAL/WORK ENVIORNMENT:

The incumbent must be physically capable and willing to endure extended periods of work under a wide variety of environmental conditions. Approximately 70% of this work is performed in the field. The incumbent must be in good physical condition and be able to traverse hillsides in rough forest terrain as a daily requirement when performing timber cruising, marking, or forest survey assignments. Heavy work such as lifting or digging may occur in emergencies. Wildfire control assignments may involve extremely strenuous and hazardous activity for extended times. Firefighting is not a requirement for this position, however all positions in the forestry department are encouraged to participate and become trained in wildfire suppression. Travel may be periodically required. The incumbent may be required to work occasional nights and/or weekends. Wildfire control assignments may involve extremely strenuous and hazardous activity for extended times.

Operating Values:

• Respect - Treats everyone with courtesy, politeness and dignity. Listens to and communicates with teammates, employees and community members in ways that build mutual and positive working relationships.
• Citizenship - Follows proper procedures and keeps appropr4iate records. Ensures compliance with regulatory and legal requirements.
• Caring- Cares about and demonstrates concern for employees and community members. Builds mutually beneficial relationships with employees, vendors and community members.
• Trustworthiness - Takes actions that build confidence in department and Pueblo of Santa Clara. Demonstrates honesty and high standards of integrity in all interactions. Gains trust and confidence in relationships with teammates and employees at all levels.
• Fairness - Listens to the concerns of employees and community members. Takes specific actions to ensure the success of employees. Make decisions after careful and appropriate consideration.
• Responsibility - Takes accountability for the services provided, pursuing excellence in everything you do. Finish what you start rather than surrendering to obstacles or excuses. Continually look for ways to improve you work. Fulfill your obligations and assist in fulfilling the obligations of the Department.