Contract Field Forest Professional

OVERVIEW

The Family Forest Network (FFN) is a collaboration among 11 co-operative organizations that is researching the costs and benefits of applying ecologically sensitive harvesting practices on small, privately owned woodlands in Nova Scotia. This is a 5-year, $10M project that aims to:

• Conduct approximately 150 harvest treatments province-wide to quantify and promote the benefits of ecological forestry;

• Extend the reach of ecological forestry on small, privately owned woodlands through integrated solutions and strategic partnerships; and

• Develop a steward‐led network to address the key challenges of conducting ecologically sensitive harvesting practices.

As part of this project, FFN is collecting data from several research plots before and after harvest. We require an experienced forest professional to lead a team of two to collect research plot (RP) data in summer 2025. This is essentially full-time, contract work between May and August (approximately 16 weeks), with possibility of extension into September.

As leader of an FFN data collection team, the applicant must:

• Be experienced in FEC assessment (certification preferred)

• Have experience with tree mensuration and tree quality assessment

• Have strong ground vegetation identification skills

• Be comfortable using Survey123 data collection forms

• Have experience navigating with GPS units and Avenza map software

• Be able to work safely in a variety of field conditions

Data being collected includes: FEC information (vegetation type, soil type, ecosite); tree metrics (species, height, diameter, crown condition); tree health and quality; regeneration (species and abundance); ground vegetation (species and abundance); coarse woody material; vertical structure; and soils information (forest floor thickness and soil samples).

For all this work, attention to detail and the ability to collect field data accurately and efficiently is essential.

WORKING ENVIRONMENT

The successful applicant will report directly to the FFN Project Scientist (Kevin Keys, RPF) for field work scheduling and technical guidance. The contract will be administered through the Nova Scotia Woodlot Owners and Operators Association (NSWOOA) on behalf of FFN. Co-workers will include a summer student (RP team) and FFN staff (as needed). Training on data collection protocols will be provided.

When necessary, the applicant must be able to travel and be away from home during the week. A reliable field vehicle and valid Class 5 driver’s license is required. Some occasional work on weekends may also be required. Travel expenses will be covered. The applicant must also be willing to use their own cell phone or tablet to collect data (apps/forms provided).

Location of work: Home-based in Nova Scotia, with a focus on central and eastern regions (including Cape Breton). Applicants should reside in central or eastern NS.

Hours: Target 36 hours/week over 4 days (schedule is weather dependent).

Salary: Commensurate with education and experience, range $35/hr - $40/hr.

TO APPLY

A Nova Scotia registered professional forester or forest technician is preferred, but other applicants with relevant and requisite experience are also welcome to apply.

Please send a cover letter outlining your interest and suitability, and a concise resume demonstrating your experience to:

Jackie Saturno

Network Manager

Family Forest Network

jackiesaturno.ffn@gmail.com

Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.