Career Explore NW - Natural Resources Program - SCC

A Forestry Technician/Wildlife Technician is a professional who supports forestry and wildlife biologists in the management and conservation of forest and wildlife resources. This combined role involves a range of fieldwork, data collection, and management tasks aimed at maintaining healthy forest ecosystems and wildlife populations. Here’s a detailed job description for a Forestry Technician/Wildlife Technician:
Job Description for Forestry Technician/Wildlife Technician
Responsibilities:
Forestry Technician Duties:
Field Surveys: Conduct forest inventories to collect data on tree species, health, size, and density.
Plot Measurements: Establish and measure sample plots to assess forest conditions.
Tree Marking: Assist in marking trees for timber sales and thinning operations.
Reforestation: Support reforestation efforts by planting trees, monitoring growth, and ensuring the survival of seedlings.
Fire Management: Participate in fire prevention activities, including creating firebreaks and conducting controlled burns.
Trail Maintenance: Maintain and improve forest trails for access and recreation.
Equipment Operation: Operate and maintain forestry equipment, such as chainsaws, GPS units, and data loggers.
Wildlife Technician Duties:
Wildlife Monitoring: Conduct wildlife surveys to monitor species populations, behaviors, and habitats.
Data Collection: Collect biological data and samples from wildlife and their habitats for analysis.
Habitat Management: Assist in managing and restoring wildlife habitats to ensure they meet the needs of various species.
Tagging and Tracking: Capture, tag, and release wildlife to monitor movements and health.
Research Support: Provide field support to wildlife biologists and researchers conducting studies on species conservation.
Public Education: Participate in public outreach programs to educate the community about wildlife conservation.
Combined Duties:
Integrated Surveys: Perform integrated surveys that include both forestry and wildlife data collection.
Data Analysis: Analyze data collected from forest and wildlife surveys to inform management practices.
Report Preparation: Prepare detailed reports on findings from field surveys and monitoring activities.
Sustainable Practices: Implement and promote sustainable land use practices that balance forestry and wildlife conservation.
Collaboration: Work with forestry and wildlife professionals, government agencies, and environmental organizations on conservation projects.
Safety Compliance: Ensure all field activities comply with safety regulations and environmental laws.
Skills and Qualifications:
Education: Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Forestry, Wildlife Management, Environmental Science, or a related field.
Field Experience: Experience in forestry and wildlife fieldwork, including data collection and equipment use.
Technical Skills: Proficiency with GPS, GIS, and other field survey technologies.
Species Identification: Ability to identify tree species and wildlife, and understand their habitat requirements.
Physical Fitness: Capability to perform physically demanding work in various weather conditions and terrains.
Attention to Detail: Strong attention to detail for accurate data collection and reporting.
Communication Skills: Good communication skills for public outreach and collaboration with other professionals.
Problem-Solving: Strong problem-solving skills to address challenges in the field and develop effective management strategies.
Summary
A Forestry Technician/Wildlife Technician plays a vital role in supporting the sustainable management and conservation of forest and wildlife resources. This combined role requires a diverse set of skills in fieldwork, data collection, analysis, and public engagement, ensuring the health and sustainability of forest ecosystems and wildlife populations.
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