Forestry Specialist

Preferred by Nature (Nature, Economy and People Connected) is a non-profit organisation that works for sustainable land use and climate-friendly solutions. With 250+ staff around the world, our projects build capacity, raise awareness, conserve nature and streamline sustainability through innovation.

Preferred by Nature is seeking a Forestry Specialist to be based in Wisconsin, Michigan, or Minnesota (Other locations may be considered).

In the role of Forestry Specialist, you will apply your highly developed client management and quality auditing service skills. You will work within your team to collectively provide client management and auditing services to a subset of forestry and forest product clients in the US/Canada regions. You will be directly involved in all aspects of forestry and forest product certification assessments and audits including scheduling, project management, customer service, technical guidance, consultant management, quality control and acting as auditor/lead auditor. This role will manage all facets of certification and organization policy compliance while maintaining a high level of professionalism, efficiency and quality of service as measured by client satisfaction and quality/assurance monitoring and reporting metrics, and conformance with the certification standards. The Forestry Specialist also acts as technical lead on specific subjects, as required.

This position is multi-faceted and includes:

• Managing the execution of forestry engagements throughout the region, including budgeting, service contracts, auditing team identification, logistical planning, support to auditors, report review, coordinating peer reviews, finalizing, and approving reports;
• Serving as primary client contact, lead auditor/auditor, and technical reviewer for selected assessments and audits;
• Communicating with ENGOs, Tribes/First Nations, and other interested parties regarding assessment and audit status, explaining Preferred by Nature position on interpretations of the FSC standard and certification decisions;
• Providing regular progress reports on audit timelines, performance, and goal progress to supervisor;
• Developing and providing strong expertise, remaining current and highly knowledgeable in standards, policies, and protocols;
• Ensuring efficiency, quality control, and adherence to technical and administration certification protocols for all jobs directly under her/his responsibilities;
• Providing customer service to current and potential clients including, but not limited to, providing information about certification, market linkages, guidance on the certification process, marketing, and responding to inquiries relating to forestry certification;
• Giving presentations and attending meetings, as needed, to promote Preferred by Nature and FSC certification;
• Contributing to developing client recruitment strategies for regional market segments, key forest landowners/managers, and forest products companies, to increase the overall competitiveness of Preferred by Nature in the marketplace as required;
• Supporting the development and launch of new products and services and assist in field testing;
• Providing input for policy development and technical improvements to the certification system;
• Working closely with other Preferred by Nature staff to ensure accuracy & consistency of standards interpretations;
• Managing specific technical proficiencies and responsibilities as required;
• Assisting developing junior staff through sharing experience and providing coaching as required; and
• Other duties as assigned.

Professional requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree in Forestry, Natural Resource Management, Forest Ecology, or related field required, Master’s Degree a plus;
• Minimum of 5 years of field experience in forestry, forest ecology or related areas. Silviculture and harvesting experience a plus; experience in agriculture and/or Sustainable Biomass projects a plus;
• Environmental management system auditor training experience preferred; Knowledge of FSC and other certification systems and Preferred by Nature a plus;
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English required;
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in French a plus;
• Strong computer skills (word processing, databases, spreadsheets) and presentation skills;
• Strong organizational, multi-tasking skills and attention to detail;
• Initiative, self-motivation, resourcefulness, dependability;
• Field auditing may require exposure to difficult terrain and hot, dry, or cold, inclement weather;
• Travel up to 40% of the time throughout US and Canada and occasionally internationally (post Covid-19).

Personal qualities

• You are a service minded, open and friendly person, who likes – and is good at – communicating with people on all levels.
• You are well organised and have the ability to maintain structure in the office.
• You have good planning and time management skills and an analytical approach.
• You are proactive and can think one step ahead on practicalities.
• Paying attention to details comes naturally to you – and you are good at it!
• You are a diligent person, who has demonstrated that you can juggle multiple tasks.
• You are a constructive team-player and have an open attitude towards other cultures, as we collaborate across borders in our organisation.
• You believe in Preferred by Nature’s vision and mission and want to contribute to fulfilling it.

Position details

• Work time: 35 hours/week (full-time)
• Reports to: Manager, Technical Services US/Canada
• Working location: home/remote office location - Wisconsin, Michigan, or Minnesota
• Salary: commensurate with qualifications and experience
• Expected starting date: as soon as possible

We offer

• Competitive benefits and leave-time package
• An exciting and challenging position within a dynamic and innovative international organisation with a mission-driven work atmosphere
• A friendly, international team of colleagues, with a pleasant work environment
• Excellent opportunities for growth and professional development
• All employees are members of the organisation and have the opportunity to contribute to the overall development of Preferred by Nature through the annual General Assembly
• Potential international training and travel opportunities.

How to apply?

Please submit your CV and letter of application (in English), including salary expectations, by March 15 via the application form below.

Please note: Only applicants legally eligible to work in the United States will be considered.

Preferred by Nature wishes our staff to reflect the diversity of society and thus welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of personal background.