Forestry Technician 1
NYS Department of Environmental Conservation · Albany, NY
- On site
- Full-time
- $40,000 / year
- Albany, NY
Job highlights
- Assist with geospatial data for forest tax law.
- Manage and collate regional forestry data.
- Support forest management project development.
- Provide technical assistance to regional staff.
- Seasonal role with potential for varied duties.
About the role
Forestry Technician
The NYS Department of Environmental Conservation is seeking a Forestry Technician to assist with the rollout of a new geospatial data submission tool for the 480a Forest Tax Law program. This role involves processing and managing geospatial data, collating regional information, and assisting in the administration and development of forest management projects.
Key Responsibilities
- Assist in processing and management of geospatial data for the 480a Forest Tax Law program.
- Collate regional information and help create a central database for the 480a program.
- Aid in the administration and development of forest management projects within the Division of Lands and Forests.
- Collect, compile, and organize data for program publications like the Stumpage Price Report and Timber Harvest Report.
- Provide technical assistance to regional staff by maintaining handbooks and manuals, and offering support via phone and email.
- Assist with data management and project evaluation for the Regenerate NY cost share grant program.
- Maintain web pages and various maps related to Stewardship, Forest Utilization, and Forest Tax Law programs.
- Support special technical assignments, including tracking industry trends, forest land use, and insect/disease management.
- Assist other programs within the Bureau of Forest Resource Management as needed.
- Attend various meetings, workshops, and conferences.
- Support regional field staff with on-site technical visits.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience and interest in geographic information systems (GIS) software, specifically ArcGIS Pro and ArcGIS Online.
- Proficiency in working with vector and raster data, editing attribute tables, and using basic spatial analysis tools.
- Knowledge of AGOL applications such as Field Maps, Survey123, and Experience Builder.
- Proficiency in Microsoft programs, including Excel and PowerPoint.
- Experience with public communication and creating written learning materials.
- Comfort working in outdoor conditions and negotiating difficult terrain.
Minimum Qualifications
- Thirty (30) semester credit hours, including twelve (12) in forestry, with at least one course in three or more of the following: botany, dendrology, forest biology, forest ecology, forest ecosystem management, forest entomology, forest health, forest mensuration, forest pathology, forest protection, forest soils, general soils, geographic information systems, land surveying, and silviculture.
- OR One (1) year of technical forestry experience in areas such as forest management, timber products, nursery management, or forest pest management.
Additional Information
- This is a seasonal, hourly appointment with an anticipated end date of 3/31/2027.
- Actual work schedule, duties, and travel requirements may vary.
- A valid driver’s license or demonstrated ability to meet transportation needs is required.
- Ability to negotiate difficult terrain, work in remote areas, and in adverse weather conditions.
- Ability to lift and move objects up to 50 pounds.
- Telecommuting may be available and will be discussed at the interview.
Key skills/competency
- Forestry
- Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
- ArcGIS Pro
- ArcGIS Online
- Data Management
- Forest Management
- Technical Assistance
- Public Communication
- Project Evaluation
- Database Development
Skills & topics
- Forestry Technician
- GIS
- ArcGIS
- Forest Management
- Data Management
- NYS DEC
- Seasonal
- Environmental Conservation
- Forestry
- Geospatial Data
How to get hired
- Tailor your resume: Highlight your GIS, ArcGIS, and forestry experience.
- Showcase technical skills: Emphasize proficiency in ArcGIS Pro, ArcGIS Online, Field Maps, Survey123, and Excel.
- Demonstrate relevant coursework/experience: Clearly list forestry courses or technical experience matching qualifications.
- Prepare for field and office tasks: Be ready to discuss comfort with outdoor work and technical communication.
Technical preparation
Master ArcGIS Pro and ArcGIS Online functionalities.,Practice with vector/raster data manipulation.,Review spatial analysis techniques.,Familiarize with Field Maps and Survey123.
Behavioral questions
Describe a complex data management project.,How do you handle public inquiries?,Detail experience working outdoors in adverse conditions.,How do you collaborate with field staff?
Frequently asked questions
- What are the primary GIS software requirements for the Forestry Technician role at NYS DEC?
- For the Forestry Technician position at the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation, preferred candidates will have experience with geographic information systems software, specifically ArcGIS Pro and ArcGIS Online. Proficiency in working with vector and raster data, editing attribute tables, and using basic spatial analysis tools is also highly valued. Familiarity with AGOL applications like Field Maps, Survey123, and Experience Builder is also a plus.
- What is the employment type and duration for the Forestry Technician position?
- This is a seasonal, hourly appointment. The anticipated end date for the position is March 31, 2027, though the actual termination date will depend on program needs and funding availability.
- What are the physical requirements for the Forestry Technician job?
- Candidates for the Forestry Technician role must be able to negotiate difficult terrain, work in remote areas, and be comfortable working in adverse weather conditions. Additionally, the ability to lift and move objects up to 50 pounds is required.
- Does the NYS DEC offer sponsorship for this Forestry Technician role?
- No, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation does not use E-Verify and is unable to provide sponsorship for employment visa statuses, such as H-1B, Self-Sponsorship, or STEM OPT.
- What kind of public engagement is expected for the Forestry Technician position?
- Forestry Technicians may engage with the public through programs offered by the Division of Lands and Forests. Preferred candidates demonstrate experience with public communication and creating written learning materials, indicating a potential for educational outreach.
- What is the minimum educational or experiential requirement for the Forestry Technician role?
- The minimum qualifications include either thirty semester credit hours with twelve in forestry (including specific course areas like botany, GIS, or silviculture) OR one year of technical forestry experience in areas such as forest management or pest control.
- Is there an opportunity for remote work or telecommuting for this Forestry Technician position?
- While this position is primarily office-based, telecommuting may be available and will be discussed at the interview. Candidates should also be aware that they may be assigned to assist regional field staff with offsite responsibilities and should be comfortable working outdoors.