Seasonal Forest Inventory Technician (Forest Technician 2-3)(Forestry Technician 2(A)-(B)-3)

Designation Status

About Us

Nova Scotia is rich in natural resources – including biodiversity, forests, geological resources, provincial parks and the land we manage. The Department of Natural Resources and Renewables is responsible for the development, management, conservation and protection of forest, mineral, parks and wildlife resources and the administration of the province's Crown land. Together we are working with Nova Scotians to build a better future through sustainable natural resource management as we all benefit from the natural health and wealth of the province.

About Our Opportunity

As the Forest Inventory Technician, you will be responsible for the collection of forest metrics from the Inventory PSPs for the integrated continuous forest inventory field program for the Province. The program determines the status, location and condition of the timber and non-timber resources with additional descriptions based upon the biophysical and ecological conditions of forest lands.

You will also:

• Ensure the integrity of the program through maximizing productivity, attribute precision and attribute accuracy within a safe and friendly atmosphere are the primary goals of the individual.
• Work closely with the Supervisor Forest Inventory, Forest Inventory Data Analyst other Forest Inventory Technicians to ensure forest inventory sampling methods and specifications along with quality control and quality assurance programs are fully understood, correctly interpreted and applied.

The position reports to the Program Administrator Officer.

About You

This may be the right opportunity for you if you have graduated from a recognized forestry technician program.   

You must have sound judgement and the ability to carry out responsibilities with a minimal level of supervision for the forest inventory field program. Teamwork and communication skills are essential to be successful in this position, you will be assigned to a team of two and be working on a near constant basis together with that person in the field. There may also be sometimes when you will be required to work alone in the field. You must exercise a degree of independent judgement, decision making and initiative in carrying out the program responsibilities to meet the production targets. You must also have the ability to respond positively to unforeseen changes and act quickly to address crisis situations drawing on appropriate resources and experiences; offer ideas to address current situations or issues as well as initiate and carry through on projects.

As a member of the Inventory Team you must have:

• Nova Scotia Forest Ecosystem Classification Certification; and be able to demonstrate these abilities.
• The ability to identify tree and woody vegetation species throughout the year and identification of ground cover and soils types of Nova Scotia.
• Ability to navigate to remote locations using aerial imagery, GPS and/or compass safely and efficiently.
• The physical fitness level to carry 35-45 lbs over long distances, in rough terrain and in all weather conditions. The ability to travel long distances by foot, vehicle (ATV, Truck, Helicopter).
• Experience with the accurate use of a diameter tape, hypsometer, Garmin GPS, digital camera, use of computer in a Windows OS, stylus driven tablets and communication with a radio.
• Self-motivation and are a results-based individual with a penchant for quality accurate forest mensuration work.
• Good leadership skills and a positive attitude, as well as a friendly diplomatic approach is required for working with the general public, landowners and colleagues.
• Proficiency in excel, word, outlook, ArcGIS etc.
• A valid NS driver's license (minimum Class 5) and access to a motor vehicle are essential.

About You Continued...

Other Assets would include:

• Current, documented training in First Aid, WHIMIS, ATV operator certification, Chainsaw safety training, Pleasure Operator Card, Canoe use, Radio use, Respect in the workplace, Violence in the workplace, Bear Awareness, Defensive Driving
• Knowledge of Surveying

We will assess the above qualifications and competencies using one or more of the following tools: written examination, standardized tests, oral presentations, interview(s), and reference checks.

Equivalency

Applicants relying on education and experience equivalencies must demonstrate such equivalencies in their application.

Benefits

Based on the employment status and union agreement, the Government of Nova Scotia offers its employees a wide range of benefits such as a Defined Benefit Pension Plan, Health, Dental, Life Insurance, General illness, Short and Long Term Disability, Vacation and Employee and Family Assistance Programs.  For information on all our Benefit program offerings, click here: Benefits for government employees.

Working Conditions

The successful candidate will be working in the woodlands throughout Nova Scotia and must be prepared to work and stay away from home for days at a time throughout the field season.  This position is required to work outside in all weather and challenging working conditions.

Additional Information

This Temporary employment opportunity is anticipated to begin April 21, 2025, and conclude December 12, 2025.   The appointment status (‘term’, ‘temporary’ or ‘casual’) is dependent on the start date of the successful candidate.

What We Offer

• Career Development where you have access to career guidance, tools, resources, interdepartmental mentorship program and ongoing training for every stage of your career
• Engaging workplace. Our Employees feel valued, respected, connected, and tuned in. We have forward-thinking policies and strategies
• Countless career paths
• Department Specific Flexible working schedules