Forestry Technician Lead - Sale Prep

Lead Forestry Technician Overview

Mountain Engineering is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Lead Forestry Technician to oversee forestry operations, including timber cruising, harvest data collection, and unit layout. Previous experience with USFS Timber Operations is highly preferred. This role involves supervising a team of technicians, coordinating project timelines, and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations and safety standards. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in forestry or a related field, possess excellent leadership skills, and demonstrate the ability to effectively communicate and collaborate with team members and stakeholders.

This seasonal position accounts for winter weather conditions that impact operations. It is ideal for candidates pursuing a career in land management and forestry. The Lead Forestry Technician will collaborate with federal, state, and private landowners to implement a variety of forestry projects, including timber harvest operations, hazard tree mitigation, post-fire restoration, and timber inventory.

Position Benefits

• Ideal for students or graduates in forestry or a related field.
• Flexible start and end dates to accommodate academic schedules.
• Lodging available during project assignments.

Key Responsibilities

• Supervise and lead a team of Forestry Technicians.
• Conduct audits and provide feedback to team members.
• Work independently while maintaining clear communication and oversight of direct reports.
• Perform unit boundary flagging and marking.
• Identify and flag stream zones.
• Conduct timber marking, timber cruising, and stand examinations.
• Perform mapping and data collection using GIS/GPS tools.
• Navigate uneven terrain using 4x4 vehicles.
• Assess and identify hazard trees.
• Conduct vegetation assessments and emergency debris management following natural events.
• Perform additional duties as assigned to support forestry operations.

Required Qualifications & Skills General Requirements

• Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record (Must pass a company-administered driving test).
• Pre-employment substance screening required.
• Ability to travel extensively throughout California, with potential assignments in Oregon and Nevada (Company-paid travel and per diem provided).
• Strong navigation skills, including compass use and reading topographic maps.
• Ability to work in rural and metropolitan areas while maintaining situational awareness and safety.

Technical Knowledge & Skills

• Experience with GPS and handheld data collection devices.
• Proficiency in tree biology and species identification.
• Familiarity with USFS Timber Handbook and/or California Forest Practice Rules.
• Competency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to accurately collect and document technical data.

Physical Requirements

• Sufficient eyesight to accurately judge distances and utilize required equipment.
• Ability to hike up to three miles of uneven terrain while carrying approximately 20 pounds within one hour.
• Self-motivated with a positive attitude and strong work ethic.
• Current enrollment or acceptance in a forestry or forestry-related program is preferred.

Working Conditions

• Work is conducted in various weather conditions, including extreme temperatures.
• Exposure to irritating plants, insects, dust, and rugged terrain.
• Willingness to work 10-hour shifts, 40 hours per week as needed.
• Must be open to overnight travel and shared accommodations.
• Requires team-oriented mindset and flexibility to adapt to evolving project needs.

Work Location

• Headquarters: Folsom, CA
• Project Location: Plumas National Forest, near Quincy, CA
• Lodging provided for project duration.

For questions or to apply, please contact:
Mark Miller
📧 mm10058@mgeinc.com
📞 (916) 616-9589

Salary : $30