Defensible Space and Forestry Specialist

Tahoe Donner Association is looking for Defensible Space Specialists to join our Defensible Space operations! The Defensible Space Specialist is responsible for the performance of residential defensible space inspections and interacting with the public to provide fire prevention information.  This position assists with the forestry department’s GIS Data Collection, tree health assessments, and tree removal permit program, as well as forestry project planning and field preparation.  

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

1. Performs defensible space inspections.
2. Interprets and applies defensible space State and Local laws regulations, best practices, as well as Tahoe Donner rules and regulations.
3. Interprets and communicates Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) fire behavior and principles to members to create a better understanding of defensible space requirements.
4. Stays informed about local defensible space assistance programs and communicates them with members.
5. Maintains records of inspections through data input using software and other tools.
6. Conducts follow-up emails and phone calls to provide members with information including reports and hazardous vegetation removal and requirements to meet Tahoe Donner rules.
7. Under guidance from Forester, conducts tree health assessments and permits trees for removal, following Tahoe Donner rules and guidelines.
8. Performs various Defensible Space, Forestry and member communication administrative duties.
9. Works closely with Tahoe Donner members to develop clearly understandable and workable solutions that meet defensible space requirements.
10. Conducts follow-up inspections concerning recommendations for compliance.
11. Conducts complex, sensitive and problematic inspections on properties to ensure property owners are in compliance with local and state regulations.
12. Trains and mentors Forestry Aide I & II in work procedures, standards and safety practices, and reviews inspection work in progress or upon completion for compliance with standards; reviews plan review comments for compliance with standards and department/Association policies.
13. Answers questions and provides information to the members, investigating complaints and recommending corrective action as necessary to resolve complaints. 
14. May give presentations for a variety of audiences regarding defensible space, local ordinances and wildfire safety.

This is a Full-Time Seasonal opportunity!!

To view the complete job description, please click HERE!!

We offer competitive starting pay based on experience and availability, performance-based advancement, use of Tahoe Donner Association Amenities, free gym membership at Trout Creek Recreation Center, food & beverage discounts and retail discounts!

It's all happening HERE at Tahoe Donner Association!  Come Share the Stoke!

We are looking for applicants who exhibit the following qualities: 
•    Consistency and Reliability
•    Cheerful and Positive Attitude
•    Energetic and outgoing personality
•    Values Teamwork
•    Loves Serving and Helping Others. 

We are looking for the following qualifications:
Required at all levels
•    Applicants must be 18 years of age or older.
•    Knowledge of defensible space, forestry, fuels management, and the principles, practices and methods used in site evaluation and hazard reduction.
•    Knowledge of fire protection principles, especially as it relates to wildland fire and the Wildland Urban Interface (WUI).
•    Effective communication skills, oral & written.
•    Strong sense of customer service & safety awareness
•    Ability to analyze situations and develop solutions.
•    Must be able to physically inspect properties with varied and sometimes rugged topography.
•    Requires possession of valid Class C Driver License with a driving record meeting the minimum standards required by the Association insurance carrier.

Defensible Space and Forestry Specialist

• Knowledge of technical report writing.
• Ability to intermittently analyze work papers, reports and special projects; identify and interpret technical and numerical information, observe and problem solve operational and technical policy and procedure.
• Ability to organize, implement and direct defensible space operations/activities. 

These skills and abilities are typically acquired through a bachelor’s degree in forestry resources management or related field and five (5) years of forestry experience or an associate’s degree in forestry resources management and ten (10) years of forestry experience; or an equivalent combination of formal training, education and experience which demonstrates the ability to perform all of the duties of the position.