FORESTER

Overview

Position Number:  
County: Sevier;
Little River Posting End Date: Open Until Filled Anticipated Starting Salary: $58,700

Forestry Division

Hiring Authority:

106 Forestry Drive, Dierks, AR 71833
• Phone: 870/286-2137
• Email: shane.boothansas.gov

Department Context: As the largest industry in Arkansas, the Arkansas Department of Agriculture is dedicated to the development and implementation of policies and programs for Arkansas agriculture and forestry to keep its farmers and ranchers competitive in national and international markets while ensuring safe food, fiber, and forest products for the citizens of the state and nation. The Department is organized into five Divisions:
Forestry Division, Livestock and Poultry Division, Natural Resources Division, Plant Industries Division, and Shared Services Division.

Job Series: Agriculture Programs – Career Path Classification: Forester Class Code: PAG
09P Pay Grade: SPC
01 Salary Range: $58,700 - $86,876

The Forester is responsible for managing and protecting forest resources in Arkansas through sustainable forestry practices, conservation programs, wildfire prevention, and landowner assistance. This position involves conducting forest inventory assessments, timber management planning, wildfire suppression efforts, and public education initiatives.

• Develop and implement forest management plans based on best practices for sustainability.
• Conduct forest inventory assessments, tree measurements, and growth studies.
• Provide technical assistance to landowners on timber harvesting, reforestation, and conservation practices.
• Monitor forest health, invasive species, and pest management concerns.
• Support state and federal conservation programs, grants, and reforestation efforts.
• Participate in wildfire detection, suppression, and post-fire rehabilitation efforts.
• Conduct prescribed burns and fuel reduction activities to minimize fire risks.
• Train and assist local fire departments in wildfire prevention strategies.
• Operate and maintain firefighting equipment, tools, and protective gear.
• Educate landowners and community members on sustainable forestry, fire prevention, and land management.
• Conduct workshops, field visits, and presentations to promote best forestry practices.
• Serve as a liaison between the state forestry agency, landowners, logging professionals, and conservation organizations.
• Ensure compliance with Arkansas forestry laws, environmental regulations, and fire codes.
• Maintain accurate forestry records, reports, and GIS mapping data.
• Assist with timber sale inspections, harvest monitoring, and compliance reviews.
• Utilize remote sensing, GIS, and other forestry technology to support decision-making.
• Serve as hiring official in assigned county/counties.
• Frequent exposure to hazardous conditions while fighting wildfires.
• May be required to work under extended subject-to-call status and extended work hours.

• Must pass an annual physical standard as a condition of employment.
• Must reside within assigned area or within 30-minute drive from workstation as a condition of employment.

Must be licensed as a Registered Forester in the state of Arkansas or obtain registration within one year of employment.

Other job related education and/or experience may be substituted for all or part of these basic requirements, except for certification or licensure requirements, upon approval of the Qualifications Review Committee.

• Ability to work under extreme weather conditions, rough terrain, and potentially hazardous and/or dangerous conditions.
• May be required to work under extended subject-to-call status and extended work hours.
• Possess a valid Arkansas Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) or the ability to procure one.

The State of Arkansas is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, citizenship, national origin, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by law.