Forest Technician (Seasonal) - Bald Eagle Forest District, Union County

If you have a passion for outdoor work and thrive in a hands-on environment, consider becoming a part of the Bald Eagle Forest District within the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. In this role, you will engage in essential maintenance tasks for district roads, trails, and facilities, allowing you to contribute meaningfully to the community. This position not only offers the rewarding experience of serving the public but also presents ample opportunities for professional development and advancement in your career.

TIMBER MANAGEMENT

• Timber management involves several key responsibilities aimed at ensuring sustainable forestry practices. This includes determining timber volumes through marking and cruising as directed by the overseeing Forester. The process also entails surveying and marking the boundaries for timber sales, herbicide application areas, and planting sites, utilizing GPS technology for accuracy. The technician is responsible for plotting these surveys and generating the necessary maps for the Forester's approval. Additionally, data collected by Foresters and other personnel must be accurately entered into the designated database. The technician may also take on a leadership role, overseeing a team of Forest Technicians and Semi-Skilled Laborers in executing various projects planned by Foresters, which can encompass activities such as constructing and maintaining deer fences, tree planting, timber marking, seed collection, wildlife habitat management, herbicide application, and conducting prescribed burns. Furthermore, the technician is tasked with maintaining a database of timber sale operators and herbicide records, as well as operating and maintaining various hand and power tools, including chainsaws and brush cutters. Field data collection is also a critical function, focusing on regeneration, competing vegetation treatment analysis, prescribed fire, and vegetation impact protocols, all of which are recorded using data recorders or other specified devices as directed by the Foresters. The role requires outdoor work in various weather conditions and includes the safe handling, mixing, and application of insecticides and herbicides at designated sites, following label instructions and under the supervision of a Forester or certified Public Applicator.

• In the realm of insect and disease management, the technician plays a supportive role by assisting the District Forest Health Coordinator with surveillance activities, which include conducting aerial flights and ground checks, as well as participating in spray projects aimed at controlling pest populations.

• The technician also contributes to forest fire protection efforts by assisting in various activities related to fire prevention, education, prescribed fire management, and both pre-suppression and suppression operations, ensuring that the forest is safeguarded against potential fire hazards.

• In terms of recreation management, the technician aids the Recreation Forester with the leased camp program and supports the maintenance of district recreation infrastructure. They are encouraged to participate in available recreational training sessions and assist with volunteer projects, events, and public engagement initiatives related to recreation.

Work Schedule and Additional Information:

• Seasonal full-time employment without benefits. The season runs from approximately March 2025 until November 2025 at which time the employee is placed on leave without pay.
• Works hours are 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday - Friday, with 30-minute lunch.
• This position may require travel and overtime as needed.
• You will receive further communication regarding this position via email. Check your email, including spam/junk folders, for these notices.

QUALIFICATIONS
Minimum Experience and Training Requirements:

• An associate's degree in forest technology; or
• Completion of equivalent formal education in forestry.
• Applicants will be considered to have met the educational requirements once they are within 6 months of graduating with a qualifying degree.

• This position requires possession of a valid PA non-commercial Class C driver's license or equivalent.

• PA residency requirement is currently waived for this title.
• You must be able to perform essential job functions.

• Resumes, cover letters, and similar documents will not be reviewed, and the information contained therein will not be considered for the purposes of determining your eligibility for the position. Information to support your eligibility for the position must be provided on the application (i.e., relevant, detailed experience/education).
• If you are claiming education in your answers to the supplemental application questions, you must attach a copy of your college transcripts for your claim to be accepted toward meeting the minimum requirements. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable.
• Your application must be submitted by the posting closing date. Late applications and other required materials will not be accepted.
• Failure to comply with the above application requirements will eliminate you from consideration for this position.

• Pennsylvania law (51 Pa. C.S. *7103) provides employment preference for qualified veterans for appointment to many state and local government jobs. To learn more about employment preferences for veterans, go to www.employment.pa.gov/Additional%20Info/Pages/default.aspx and click the Veterans' Preference tab or contact us at ra-cs-vetpreference@pa.gov.

• 711 (hearing and speech disabilities or other individuals).

• Completing the application, including all supplemental questions, serves as your exam for this position. No additional exam is required at a test center (also referred to as a written exam).
• Your score is based on the detailed information you provide on your application and in response to the supplemental questions.
• Your score is valid for this specific posting only.
• You must provide complete and accurate information or:
  • your score may be lower than deserved.
  • you may be disqualified.