State Lands Forester II

The Vermont Department of Forests, Parks, and Recreation (FPR) is recruiting a State Lands Forester in the Barre District of the Division of Forests. The role focuses on implementing forest and land stewardship projects across 103,000 acres of public land.

The successful candidate will carry out all aspects of state lands management, including forest, recreation, wildlife habitat management, planning, and related duties. Responsibilities include conducting forest inventory, assessment, timber sale preparation and administration, forest road maintenance and rehabilitation, invasive plant management, timber stand improvement, and habitat projects. The position contributes to long‑range management planning and recreation project planning. Contracts will be developed and seasonal staff managed.

Field work constitutes more than half of the job, involving exposure to all weather conditions and traversal of steep, rough terrain. The role requires the use of hand and power tools, chain saw operation, and holding a Vermont Pesticide Applicator’s License (Category 2). Possession of a current State of Vermont Forester License is mandatory with eligibility and licensure milestones within 2–2.5 years for Forestry Professional II and 1–1.5 years for Forestry Professional III levels.

The position, State Lands Forester II (Job Requisition #55332), is open to all state employees and external applicants.

• Associate’s degree in forestry, natural resources, biological or earth science, or wildlife management AND at least 2 years of experience in related fields.
• Bachelor’s degree or higher in the same field AND at least 1 year of experience.
• One (1) year or more as Forestry Professional I with the State of Vermont.
• Forester license issued by the State of Vermont.

State of Vermont Forester License may be required for specific positions in this class.

As a State employee, the total compensation package includes additional benefits worth about 30 % of salary, including but not limited to:

• 80 % State‑paid medical premium and a dental plan at no cost for employees and families
• 11 paid holidays and a generous leave plan
• State Paid Family and Medical Leave Insurance (FMLI)
• Defined benefit pension plan and deferred compensation 457(b) plan
• Tuition reimbursement
• Flexible spending healthcare and childcare reimbursement accounts
• Low‑cost group life insurance
• Incentive‑based wellness program
• Qualified Employer for Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness Program

The State of Vermont celebrates diversity, and is committed to providing an environment of mutual respect and meaningful inclusion that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. The State does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion or belief, national, social or ethnic origin, sex (including pregnancy), age, physical, mental or sensory disability, HIV status, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, marital, civil union or domestic partnership status, past or present military service, membership in an employee organization, family medical history or genetic information, or family or parental status.

The State’s employment decisions are merit‑based. Retaliatory adverse employment actions by the State are forbidden.