Forester - Pool

Forester

The Forester is a professional, office and field-based role within the Colorado State Forest Service (CSFS) that works across multiple CSFS program areas to deliver science-based forestry, wildfire mitigation, stewardship, and outreach outcomes within an assigned geographic area. The position supports active forest management and related natural resource work on state, private, and/or federal lands through collaborative project development and implementation.

Working under the direction of a Supervisory Forester or Lead Project Forester, the role regularly and independently manages small- to moderate-complexity projects; provides technical assistance and customer service to landowners, communities, and partners; supports grant and cost-share program delivery; and may serve as a work lead on projects without formal supervisory authority. Work is office and field based with periodic travel and occasional irregular hours.

This evergreen posting will remain open and continue collecting applications until December 31, 2026. Applicants who wish to be considered after this date must reapply.

$50,000 - $55,000

Lead planning, implementation, and closeout of small- to moderate-complexity forestry and natural resource projects across multiple CSFS program areas (e.g., forest management and stewardship, wildfire mitigation/fuels treatment, urban & community forestry, insect and disease response, outreach, and related special projects) to improve forest health, reduce wildfire risk, and support resilient landscapes.

Develop and implement project scopes of work, estimates, field plans, and technical recommendations; coordinate day-to-day project execution; monitor timelines, deliverables, safety, and compliance; and maintain project records and reports consistent with agency standards.

Support and administer grant and cost-share program delivery at the project level (e.g., Colorado Forest Restoration & Wildfire Risk Mitigation, Colorado Strategic Wildfire Action Program, State & Private Forestry, State Fire Assistance, Community Assistance on Adjacent Lands, and similar programs) by assisting with scopes, documentation, implementation tracking, reporting, and certification of completed work as assigned.

Provide technical assistance and customer service to landowners, local governments, HOAs, fire protection districts, and community partners; participate in outreach and educational efforts; and communicate CSFS technical guidance and program requirements in a clear and professional manner.

Serve as a project/work lead for Forestry Technicians, seasonal employees, and interns on assigned projects without formal supervisory authority over permanent or seasonal staff; train, coordinate, and review project work as appropriate to ensure safety, quality, and completion of assigned tasks.

Participate in pile burning and prescribed fire on state lands as qualified and assigned; follow safety policies, operational procedures, and agency standards in field and office settings.

Regularly develop, select, and adapt technical approaches for low- to moderate-complexity projects consistent with established prescriptions, best available science, and agency guidance. Occasionally on higher complexity projects with support.

Prioritize and schedule day-to-day project tasks, field activities, and contractor coordination within assigned projects; identify issues and elevate higher-risk, policy, or unusually complex matters to leadership.

Prepare scopes, estimates, documentation, and recommendations for project implementation, grant administration, and contractor work within delegated limits; recommend adjustments to improve project outcomes, compliance, and efficiency.

This position does not directly supervise any position. May directly supervise one student intern only. May provide work leadership on projects without formal supervisory authority.

• Bachelor's Degree in Forestry, Natural Resources, Natural Resource Management, or a closely related field.

• Two (2)+ years professional Natural Resource management experience (e.g., forestry, ecology/silviculture/management/planning; watershed protection; wildfire mitigation and fuels reduction).

• Valid driver's license (Colorado or ability to obtain) and ability to meet CSU vehicle policy; willingness to travel and occasionally work irregular hours.

• Physical ability to hike long distances over steep terrain at high elevations (up to ~12,000 ft) while carrying 35+ lbs in varied weather.

• Ability to manage low to moderate complexity forestry and natural resource projects, including project planning, implementation, documentation, and working-level support for budgeting, grant/contract administration, reporting, and compliance.

• Working proficiency with Microsoft Office and GIS/GPS tools (e.g., ArcGIS Pro/ArcGIS Online or similar); effective communication and customer service skills.

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team; reliable organization and record‑keeping skills. Commitment to safety and…