FORESTRY AIDE/LABORER - CONSERVATION PROGRAM

NE - LEVEL 4

SALARY: $15.64

GENERAL DEFINITION: The purpose of the position is responsible for fieldwork involved in the mechanical fuels treatments of Hazardous Fuel Reduction and Woodlands Management Projects. 

SUPERVISION RECEIVED: Work is performed under the direct supervision of the Forest Project Crew Leader.

SUPERVISION EXERCISED:  No Supervisory Duties. 

DUTIES:

Performs to accomplish daily operational goals established.

  • Proficiently operate equipment such as a chainsaw, brush cutter and related power equipment to complete job function.
  • Proficiently operate with forestry hand tools such as Polaski/Axe, combination tool, McLeod rake etc.
  • Proficient in utilizing Proper Protective Equipment (PPE).
  • Receive daily assignment from the Crew Leader/Foreman.
  • Provide care of landscape while implementing forest management practices.
  • Performs piling of accumulated slash and biomass accordingly to project scope specifications.
  • Gathers brush and disposes into wood chipper during chipping operations.
  • Gather and remove litter throughout the landscape.
  • Maintains and refurbishes forestry hand tools.
  • Maintains and refurbishes power tools such as chainsaw, brush cutter etc.
  • Provide updates to the Crew Leader/Foreman regarding the status of daily activities.
  • May assist in simple vehicle maintenance such as preventative maintenance, washing and cleaning.

Performs other duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:   Knowledge of basic principles of fire suppression and prevention. Knowledge of hand tool preventive maintenance. Knowledge of chainsaw maintenance. Ability to learn and understand a variety of technical information related to the field of forestry.  Skilled in chain saw operation and ax use, including various types of equipment to chop, chip, crush, or break apart fuels such as brush, small trees. Ability to use sound judgement.  Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing with co-workers, supervisor, and specialists in forestry and other resource management fields.  Ability to utilize good judgment and take appropriate action in emergency situations.  Apply safe work practices. Must have the ability to establish and maintain a good working relationship with crew members, tribal employees, BIA Agency, other agencies and the general public. 

TRAINING & EXPERIENCE:  Must have a High School Diploma or GED. At least one (1) year of work experience as a laborer in field of forest, wildland fire or related field. 

LICENSE AND CERTIFICATES:  Must have a valid New Mexico Driver’s License with no DUI/DWI convictions within the last three (3) years.  Driving is not an essential part of the duties.

  1.  Basic First Aid/CPR certified - Must obtain within six (6) months of employment.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:  The work involves arduous field work.  Incumbent must be physically capable of walking and climbing long distances over steep terrain under adverse weather conditions and physically capable of walking or sawing for periods up to six to eight hours daily.  Field work consists of walking, stooping, standing and lifting items. Must be capable of lifting 50 pounds in weight.  Work will be performed outdoors, in all types of weather conditions, terrain, and elevations.  Chainsaw operations include bending, lifting, and walking with personal protective equipment that somewhat restricts mobility and is an additional weight.

SPECIAL WORKING CONDITIONS:  Must provide proof of medical clearance.  Position is subject to Pre-Employment drug testing.  Position is Safety Sensitive and will be subject to random drug screening for duration of employment. Must submit to and successfully pass a local background check.  

Equal Opportunity Employer, including disabled and veterans.