Forest and Conservation Worker X 45

The Forest and Conservation Worker position at Zaldivars Forestry Corporation in Centralia, WA, involves commercial tree planting and pre-commercial thinning in steep terrains. Workers must be physically fit, able to carry heavy equipment, and work safely in remote mountainous areas. The role requires a commitment from October 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025, with a competitive hourly wage and benefits including paid sick leave and transportation to worksites.
About the position

The Forest and Conservation Worker position at Zaldivars Forestry Corporation involves performing essential tasks related to commercial tree planting and pre-commercial thinning in steep terrain, specifically in various counties across Washington State. The role requires physical endurance and the ability to work safely and effectively in remote mountainous areas. Workers will be responsible for planting seedlings, which includes clearing a space, digging holes, placing seedlings, covering roots with soil, and tamping the soil around the newly planted trees. The job demands the ability to carry a planting bag weighing approximately 50-60 pounds while navigating steep slopes ranging from 30% to 60%. Additionally, workers will engage in pre-commercial thinning, which involves using a chainsaw to cut brush and non-commercial trees, necessitating the carrying of chainsaw equipment totaling around 50 pounds. A small amount of spraying may also be required on selected worksites. The position has specific performance expectations, with a target of planting 800 trees by the end of the first week, 900 by the end of the second week, and 1000 trees by the end of the third week. Workers must commit to the full season, which runs from October 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025, and be available for work every day that work is available. The typical work schedule is Monday through Friday, from 7 am to 3:30 pm, totaling 40 hours a week. The position offers a competitive wage, with hourly rates ranging from $22.96 to $24.16, and overtime opportunities at higher rates. Workers will also accrue paid sick leave, which can be utilized after 90 days of employment. Transportation to and from worksites is provided at no cost to the employee, and while housing is not provided, the employer will assist workers in finding accommodations. The employer is committed to ensuring a safe working environment and providing all necessary tools and equipment for the job without charge. This role is ideal for individuals who enjoy outdoor work and are physically capable of handling the demands of forestry tasks in challenging terrains.

Responsibilities
• Conduct commercial tree planting on steep terrain using a planting shovel.
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• Clear space on the ground, dig holes, and correctly place seedling trees in the holes.
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• Cover roots with soil and tamp the soil around newly planted seedlings.
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• Carry a planting bag containing seedlings weighing 50-60 pounds while navigating steep terrain.
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• Perform pre-commercial thinning using a chainsaw to cut brush and non-commercial trees.
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• Demonstrate the ability to work safely and effectively in remote mountainous areas.
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• Meet tree planting targets of 800 trees by the end of the first week, 900 by the end of the second week, and 1000 by the end of the third week.

Requirements
• 3 months of experience performing commercial tree planting and/or pre-commercial thinning.
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• Availability to work in specified counties and complete the entire season from October 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025.
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• No formal education requirements.

Nice-to-haves

Benefits
• Hourly wage between $22.96 and $24.16, with overtime pay at $34.44 to $36.24 per hour.
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• Accrual of paid sick leave at a minimum rate of 1 hour for every 40 hours worked, usable after 90 days of employment.
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• Daily transportation provided from a central pick-up point to worksites at no cost to the employee.