Urban Forester

The Freehold Soil Conservation District is hiring an Urban Forester to provide forestry expertise for public forests and street trees in New Jersey. Responsibilities include developing Community Forestry Management Plans, implementing tree planting programs, coordinating forestry activities, and inspecting construction sites for compliance with environmental regulations. A Bachelor's degree in Forestry or a related field is required, along with 1-2 years of relevant experience.
About the position

The Urban Forester position at the Freehold Soil Conservation District involves providing forestry expertise to municipal and county planning staff to maintain public forests and street trees in accordance with New Jersey State Guidelines. The role focuses on sustainable forestry practices, stewardship initiatives, and compliance with state sediment and erosion control best management practices. The Urban Forester will also serve as a liaison for forestry-related projects and may inspect construction sites to ensure adherence to environmental regulations.

Responsibilities
• Provide technical forestry expertise to public forest landowners through the preparation and implementation of Community Forestry Management Plans (CFMP).
,
• Implement tree planting programs including street tree plantings, park reforestation, and stream buffer tree plantings.
,
• Coordinate forestry-related activities and programs within Monmouth and Middlesex Counties on public land.
,
• Inspect construction sites to ensure erosion control measures are being implemented as specified.
,
• Assist in reviewing plans and provide field reconnaissance information prior to certifications.
,
• Examine sites to gather information on vegetation, drainage, and hazards.
,
• Consult and correspond with engineers, contractors, and municipal officials regarding forestry projects.

Requirements
• Bachelor's degree in Forestry, Natural Resources, or a related field.
,
• 1-2 years of related work experience in natural resource management, forestry, or environmental studies.
,
• Ability to obtain NJ Licensed Tree Expert certification.

Nice-to-haves
• Understanding of urban forestry concepts such as street tree inventories and urban tree planting methods.
,
• Ability to differentiate trees by species.
,
• Familiarity with GIS software and GPS units for mapping and navigation.
,
• Ability to read and interpret scientific and technical texts and legal documents.
,
• Strong presentation skills for public groups and management.

Benefits
• Dental insurance
,
• Employee assistance program
,
• Flexible schedule
,
• Health insurance
,
• Health savings account
,
• Life insurance
,
• Paid time off
,
• Professional development assistance
,
• Retirement plan
,
• Tuition reimbursement
,
• Vision insurance