Forestry Assistant at Parker Ranch Inc – Kamuela, Hawaii

The primary function of the Forestry Assistant position will be to implement day-to-day forestry operations of the timber assets of Parker Ranch. This will include work in areas of the ranch with extensive native timber species such as koa (Acacia koa) and ohia (Metrosideros polymorpha), as well as areas that include non-native timber resources such as tropical ash (Fraxinus uhdei), sugi (Cryptomeria japonica), and various eucalyptus species. This position will work closely with, and under the direct supervision of, the Parker Ranch Forestry Manager.

A Forestry Assistant must be highly motivated, adaptable to a wide variety of changing work tasks, possess an eagerness to learn, and able to work in remote locations under a variety of environmental conditions. Forestry Assistants will focus on timber management duties in accordance with Parker Ranch's Sustainable Forestry Management Plans including tree planting and care, non-native invasive species control, fence construction and maintenance, salvage timber harvesting, timber stand management, forest fire mitigation and response, research, and general project implementation

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Invasive Plant and Animal Management

• Implements large-scale management projects aimed at controlling invasive plant communities using a variety of mechanical, chemical, and biologic techniques
• Implements large-scale management projects aimed at planting a wide variety of tree seedlings
• Ability to properly apply chemical herbicides
• Ability to legally and safely use firearms

Field Work/ Management

• Implement diverse forest expansion activities as directed by Forestry Manager and Forestry Technician including native and non-native tree plantings
• Collect, process and properly store seeds for forest expansion as directed by Forestry Manager and Forestry Technician
• Ability to safely fell, buck, limb, or otherwise cut trees with chainsaws.
• Inspect and maintain existing timber stand fences
• Ability to establish, maintain, improve, and manage timber stands in line with current forestry Best Management Practices
• Ability to recognize project needs, nutrient deficiencies in timber, threats to forestry areas, and adapt management practices to address those needs
• Construct new fences following approved methods as directed
• Ensure company safety protocols are followed continuously

GPS and GIS Data Collection, Mapping and Management

Collects and manages GPS and GIS data including, but not limited to timber stands, access roads, invasive plant and animal management activities, planting, harvest planning, and other key forest health metrics as defined by the Forestry Manager