Review Vacancy
AgencyEnvironmental Conservation, Department of
Occupational CategoryOther Professional Careers
Bargaining UnitOSU - Operational Services Unit (CSEA)
Salary RangeFrom $18.77 to $18.77 Hourly
Minimum Qualifications 30 semester credit hours, including 12 semester credit hours in forestry, which must include at least one course in three or more of the following areas: 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 year of technical forestry experience in one or more of the following areas: forest management, including sale and removal of timber products; nursery management, including the transplanting of tree or shrub seedlings; forest pest management, including control of diseases and insect pests.
In addition to the above, candidates shall possess:
- Valid driver’s license.
- Physical ability to hike rough terrain.
- Availability to travel and stay overnight.
Preferred Qualifications
Ability to:
- Identify trees of New York and determine their cause of damage.
- Fly in small planes at low altitudes for extended periods of time.
- Follow protocols in the effective use of custom GIS-based survey applications.
- Troubleshoot hardware and software issues that may impede job duties.
- Communicate effectively with audiences who possess varying levels of expertise.
- Work in a productive and independent manner with minimal supervision.
Knowledge of and experience with:
- Forest insects and diseases as well as general forest health trends.
- The ESRI ArcGIS software suite, including but not limited to ArcGIS Pro, ArcGIS Online, Field Maps, and custom applications developed on the ESRI platform.
- Use and interpretation of remote sensing data products such as aerial and satellite imagery.
Duties Description NYSDEC Forest Health is responsible for monitoring the ecological health and function of all the forests in New York state. Our priority is placed on early detection of and rapid response to high impact invasive species that may threaten forest health. We are looking for qualified and enthusiastic individuals to join our team.
As a forest health technician, you will assist the aerial survey and oak wilt program managers by conducting field work, managing data, and providing technical guidance and outreach to stakeholders. Field work will consist of participating in forest canopy aerial surveys and ground truthing operations, following up on land manager and homeowner reports, collecting samples from potentially infected trees, collecting data for treatments, and conducting treatment activities. Office work will consist of data management and distribution via web and static maps in a Geographic Information System (GIS). Selected candidate will also work with Foresters and staff from other State, Federal, and local agencies.
Following internal operating procedures, and using established forestry methodologies/equipment:
- Participate in aerial surveys to map the spread of canopy damage and its suspected damage causing agents (DCAs) in forests across the state.
- Confirm or reject the presence of suspected DCAs (“ground truth”) via field inspections.
- Interact with and contribute to state and federal forest health GIS databases.
- Communicate findings and disseminate data via web or static map deliverables as needed.
- Collect tree data related to managing DCAs with particular emphasis on oak wilt.
- Receive public reports, provide written or oral responses, and prioritize for field inspections.
- Collect, prepare, and ship suspected DCA samples for diagnostic testing.
- Participate in management activities such as cutting, chipping, log splitting, and pile burning.
- Provide technical guidance and assistance to regional staff.
Additional Comments 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. Travel may be required. Overnight travel may be required. Telecommuting may be available, will be discussed at interview.
This is a hourly appointment currently funded through 3/31/2025, with a likelihood of continuing beyond that date. Program needs and funding will determine actual termination date.
DEC is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Some positions may require additional credentials or a background check to verify your identity.
Email Address PostingResponses@dec.ny.gov
Address
Personnel, 10th Floor
Notes on ApplyingPlease email/mail your resume and transcript to the above. Be sure to include Vacancy#24-156754 on your resume and also in the subject line of your email or it may not be accepted. You must submit a copy of your college transcript. An unofficial copy is acceptable.