The Nebraska Forest Service (NFS) provides technical and financial assistance to clients across Nebraska emphasizing rural forestry, community forestry, forest fuels reduction, forest health, forest products utilization and fire protection. Our mission is to enrich the lives of Nebraska's citizens by protecting, restoring and utilizing Nebraska's tree and forest resources.
NFS is seeking enthusiastic, qualified applicants to join our team of dedicated staff working towards improving the health, resiliency and sustainability of Nebraska's trees and forests. By providing forest health programming, the Forest Health Specialist will play a key role in improving the health and resiliency of both rural and community forest resources.
Program Focus Area:
The Forest Health Specialist will provide forest health programming across Nebraska. This position will provide technical assistance and information to agency staff, partners, landowners and homeowners related to identification and management of common insect and disease pests of trees, as well as invasive pests and abiotic issues. The position will develop and coordinate forest health training and workshops, develop education and outreach materials, and collaborate with other forestry staff and partners. The position will conduct tree pest surveys and develop and implement other forest health activities. Some overnight travel is necessary. Position is based in Scottsbluff, NE, or another mutually agreed upon location.
The University of Nebraska-Lincoln seeks to attract and retain a high performing and diverse workforce in which employees' differences are respected and valued to better meet the varying needs of the diverse populations we serve. The university fosters a diverse and inclusive work environment that promotes collaboration so that all individuals are able to participate and contribute to their full potential. As an EO/AA employer, qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, national origin, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, and/or political affiliation. See:
http://www.unl.edu/equity/noticenondiscrimination.
Minimum Required Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree or equivalency in forestry, plant pathology, entomology, horticulture, or closely related field plus one year of experience providing assistance with forest/tree pests and problems and their management. Equivalent education may include: a combination of formal postsecondary education with at least 24 credit hours in biological sciences, natural resources, horticulture, forestry, or agriculture; OR arborist certification from ISA. Demonstrated ability to engage with individuals, communities, partners or businesses or other stakeholders and respond to their forestry needs. Ability to develop, implement and maintain projects and activities, including documenting progress and preparing reports. Ability to effectively cooperate with private landowners, the public, cooperators and peers. Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in written form. Self-starter with proven record of organizational skills. Ability to work independently under the guidance of the supervisor. Substantial knowledge relevant to position focus area. Knowledge of presentation, word processing and spreadsheet software. Must have a valid driver's license and meet University driver eligibility requirements.
Preferred Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in forestry, plant pathology, entomology, horticulture, or closely related field. Four years of experience providing assistance with forest/tree pests and problems and their management. Demonstrated interpersonal, communication, leadership, and teamwork skills. Experience with Great Plains Forest health problems and their management. Experience with emerald ash borer biology and management. Experience conducting pest surveys. ISA arborist certification preferred.