Review Vacancy
AgencyEnvironmental Conservation, Department of
Occupational CategoryOther Professional Careers
Bargaining UnitPS&T - Professional, Scientific, and Technical (PEF)
Salary RangeFrom $86681 to $109650 Annually
Duties Description As a Forester 2, under the general supervision of a Forester 3, the incumbent will be responsible for the supervision of the Division of Lands & Forests State Forest, Invasive Species and Ecosystem Health, Private Lands, and Urban Forestry programs throughout the 6 county Cortland district. The Forester 2 will provide direct supervision to professional, technical, and support staff in the Cortland and Altmar offices to achieve work plan objectives; direct work assignments; recommend work plans to bring work targets in line with staffing; advise supervisor on desired policies by commenting on statutes, regulations, policies, and guidelines; assist in program development; assist central office in program reviews; report on program status and progress towards work plan targets; review project work plans to ensure consistency with Department policies; maintain records relating to proceeds from the sale of work products and services; review and prepare contract language and budget narratives and monitor program expenditures; evaluate program performance to ensure work is implemented according to legal and regulatory requirements by making field inspections; respond to letters, emails, telephone calls, and other requests for information; review and investigate public complaints; review applications and prepare documents for Volunteer Stewardship Agreements and Temporary Revocable Permits and forward recommendations to supervisor; maintain records related to state conservation programs, including reviewing files for 480-a and state grant programs; conduct and coordinate gathering of forestry related research to inform program design; manage the office budget and maintain inventories of supplies, equipment, and vehicles and oversee security of property; and approve purchases and travel by subordinates.
The Forester 2 must be able to maintain productive relationships with many other DEC programs. The incumbent will coordinate annual maintenance of roads, infrastructure, recreational facilities, and new construction projects with the Division of Operations; work with the Bureau of Real Property to identify and prioritize land acquisition; address user impacts and illegal activity with the Division of Forest Protection; request advice and direction from Legal Affairs; and work cooperatively with the DEC Communications Team to distribute information about these programs to the public via social media, press releases, responding to press inquiries, and making presentations at public meetings. The Forester 2 must maintain quality public relations with all of the Lands and Forests program’s stakeholder groups, local communities and municipalities, State representatives, contractors, and other interested constituents, and represent the Department at public meetings and events.
Minimum Qualifications Reassignment - Currently in the title and an employee of DEC
or
Reinstatement Eligible - Previously held the title on a permanent competitive basis or held a title as indicated under the transfer eligible section on a permanent competitive basis.
or
Eligible for transfer under Section 70.1: One year of permanent competitive service as an Environmental Program Specialist 2 (Natural Resources)
Additional Comments Actual work schedule, duties and travel requirements may vary and will be discussed at the interview.
Must have a valid driver’s license or demonstrate the ability to meet the transportation needs of the position.
Must be able to negotiate difficult terrain.
Must be able to work in remote areas.
Must be able to work in adverse weather conditions.
Travel may be required.
Overnight travel may be required.
Weekends and holidays may be required.
Must be able to lift and move objects up to 40 pounds.
Telecommuting may be available up to 50% of work schedule, will be discussed at interview.
We offer a work-life balance and a generous benefits package, worth 65% of salary, including:
• Holiday & Paid Time Off
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)
• Pension from New York State Employees’ Retirement System
• Shift & Geographic pay differentials
• Affordable Health Care options
• Family dental and vision benefits at no additional cost
• NYS Deferred Compensation plan
• Access to NY 529 and NY ABLE College Savings Programs, and U.S. Savings Bonds
• And many more...
For new State employees appointed to graded positions, the annual salary is the hiring rate (beginning of the Salary Range) of the position. Promotion salaries are calculated by the NYS Office of the State Comptroller in accordance with NYS Civil Service Law, OSC Payroll rules and regulations and negotiated union contracts.
The Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) is committed to fostering a culture of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility. Our work would not be possible without the diverse backgrounds, experiences, ideas, and abilities of our employees. DEC is committed to developing a workforce which represents the diverse population of New York State. DEC embraces a diverse and inclusive work environment by encouraging all individuals, including those with disabilities, to apply to open positions at the agency.
Please be advised, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation does not use E-Verify, and we are unable to provide sponsorship for employment visa statuses (i.e. H-1B, Self-Sponsorship, STEM OPT).
Some positions may require additional credentials or a background check to verify your identity.

