Forest Ecosystem Technician

Position Overview:

This role is integral to the execution of the statewide forest health initiative. The individual will be tasked with assessing land areas to enhance ecological vitality and mitigate fire hazards. Responsibilities include conducting evaluations of forest health, gathering and overseeing ecological data, and aiding in the creation of forest health resources. The technician will also assess forest conditions and monitor for damage, decline, or mortality resulting from pests, diseases, and invasive species. Additionally, the role involves tracking forest health projects and documenting the success of various treatments, marking trees, delineating boundaries, and supporting the planning of forestry initiatives, as well as assisting with grant management. Participation in annual aerial surveys for pests and pathogens affecting Arizona's forests is also required, which includes engaging in flight surveys, data collection, and report preparation. This position necessitates travel across the state and may involve occasional overnight stays.

This position may offer remote work options within Arizona (1-2 days per week in the office/hoteling).

The State of Arizona promotes a work environment that values flexibility, independence, and trust. Many employees across various agencies participate in the State's Remote Work Program, allowing them to work from home, in offices, or in hoteling spaces. All work, including remote tasks, must be conducted within Arizona unless a prior exception is authorized.

Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct assessments of forest health and manage ecological data.
• Monitor for damage caused by insects, diseases, and invasive species.
• Oversee forestry projects through site evaluations and collaboration with sub-grantees.
• Provide technical support regarding forestry practices, forest health, and pest impacts.
• Deliver customer service to colleagues, grantees, and stakeholders; maintain communication with supervisors and peers regarding tasks and projects.
• Maintain vehicles, equipment, and workspaces.
• Drive for state-related business.
• Perform other assigned duties as necessary.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

Knowledge of:

• Fundamental principles of forest ecology, ideally gained through formal education or experience in forestry.
• Forest resource management techniques and associated challenges.
• Proficiency in MS Word, MS Excel, GIS, and related software.
• Understanding of environmental and cultural laws and regulations.

Skills in:

• Effective oral and written communication.
• Active listening as a vital component of communication.
• Public speaking capabilities.
• Identification skills for plants, insects, and forest pathogens.
• Data collection and analytical skills, along with ecological monitoring expertise.
• Proficiency in using forestry field instruments and software.
• Mapping, remote sensing, and GIS skills.

Ability to:

• Navigate rugged and uneven terrain.
• Engage in creative and critical thinking.
• Read and write effectively.
• Thrive in a fast-paced environment and meet tight deadlines.
• Fly in small fixed-wing aircraft for extended periods.
• Visually distinguish between dead and live trees during aerial surveys.
• Travel statewide with occasional overnight stays.

Preferred Qualifications:

A Bachelor of Science degree in Forestry or a related natural resource field, or equivalent professional experience. Familiarity with relevant laws, regulations, and regulatory processes is advantageous.

Pre-Employment Requirements:

A valid Arizona Driver's License is required. All employees operating a vehicle for state business must possess a current, valid driver's license, complete necessary training, and pass all required driver's license record checks. The license must be valid and not suspended or revoked. Employees driving on state business must maintain acceptable driving records and complete all required driver training. Those using personal vehicles for state business must have the legally required liability insurance.

All newly hired State employees must successfully complete the Electronic Employment Eligibility Verification Program (E-Verify).

Benefits:

The State of Arizona offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Affordable medical, dental, life, and short-term disability insurance.
• Top-tier retirement and long-term disability plans.
• 10 paid holidays annually.
• Paid Parental Leave for up to 12 weeks for newborn or newly-placed foster/adopted children.
• Vacation time accrued at 4.00 hours bi-weekly for the first three years.
• Sick time accrued at 3.70 hours bi-weekly.
• Deferred compensation plan.
• Wellness programs.
• Tuition reimbursement eligibility after one year of employment.

By providing options for full-time or part-time remote work, employees can achieve a better work/life balance, report higher job satisfaction, and enhance productivity. Remote work is a management option and not an employee entitlement. Agencies may terminate remote work agreements at their discretion.

Retirement:

Positions in this classification participate in the Arizona State Retirement System (ASRS). Enrollment eligibility will become effective after 27 weeks of employment.