Lead Collaborative Forestry Technician

Job Summary

The Lead Collaborative Forestry Technician serves as a crew lead for a forestry field team performing hands-on forest management and restoration work on public and private lands. This temporary, full-time role involves leading a collaborative forestry crew in activities that support timber management, ecological restoration, and wildfire risk reduction projects. The position provides an opportunity to deepen technical forestry skills, gain leadership experience, and contribute to collaborative land management efforts while working in physically demanding outdoor environments. The Lead Technician is responsible for crew coordination, safety oversight, quality control of field work, and on-the-job training of crew members.

Key Responsibilities

Lead and supervise a forestry crew in implementing silvicultural prescriptions, cruising guides, and project instructions
Conduct and oversee forestry fieldwork, including boundary marking, GPS data collection, timber marking and cruising, and delineation of thinning units
Monitor crew performance, work pace, preparedness, and professionalism in the field
Lead field safety efforts, including tailgate safety meetings, hazard mitigation, PPE tracking, and vehicle safety checks
Communicate regularly with supervisors regarding crew progress, safety concerns, and personnel issues
Track equipment usage and ensure proper care of tools and vehicles
Assess progress toward project objectives and report accomplishments
Foster a collaborative, respectful, and efficient team environment that encourages learning and professionalism
Provide hands-on training and guidance to crew members in forestry techniques and field protocols
Support knowledge-sharing with youth participants as part of workforce development and stewardship education
Assist with additional tasks that support restoration and forest management priorities as needed
Qualifications

Required Qualifications

At least 12 months of combined field experience in forestry or natural resource management (e.g., conservation corps, wildland fire, environmental research, land management)
At least 6 months of experience leading others in field-based natural resource work
Coursework toward or completion of a degree/certificate in Forestry, Natural Resource Management, Ecological Restoration, or related field, or equivalent relevant work experience
Experience with standard forestry field techniques, including timber marking and/or cruising
Knowledge of Sierra Nevada forest ecology and natural systems
Ability to use compasses, topographic maps, and handheld GPS units or tablets for navigation and data collection
Strong organizational skills with the ability to track and report project accomplishments
Physical ability to work full days outdoors while hiking and carrying equipment in varied weather conditions
Demonstrated adaptability, problem-solving skills, and a positive team-oriented attitude
Punctual, reliable, and able to model a strong work ethic for crew members
Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record and ability to operate a 4WD vehicle
Ability to meet health and safety requirements for field-based work
Preferred Qualifications

Experience working as part of a forestry or conservation field crew
Experience with safety management and field data collection
Familiarity with mixed conifer forests and tree species identification
Timber cruising certification or similar technical credentials
Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in forestry, natural resources, or a related field
Current first aid or wilderness medical certification (e.g., WFA, WFR, WEMT)
Working Conditions & Physical Requirements

Field-based position with the majority of work performed outdoors
Requires hiking several miles daily while carrying heavy packs and forestry tools
Exposure to varying weather conditions, including heat, smoke, wind, and storms
Requires the ability to recognize and mitigate field safety hazards
Involves chainsaw training and operation
Ability to lift up to 50 pounds recommended