What We Can Achieve Together:
The Forest Conservation Technician (FCT) is a field-based conservation position that will work on TNC preserves and partner lands across the Southern Blue Ridge mountains related to Helene recovery efforts and other forest conservation priorities.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
With this position, FCT will conduct various land management duties including but not limited to:
Treating non-native invasive plant species
Forest stand improvement, including midstory removal and vine control
Wetland restoration, including woody seedling removal
Collecting forest inventory and monitoring data
Stand layout and planning
Marking/flagging trees for release
Herbicide application for NNIS and silviculture
Pre- and post-treatment efficacy surveys
Using GPS device and/or GIS applications for data collection, surveying, and planning purposes
Work both independently and under close supervision
Provide technical support, including interdisciplinary support, to Southern Blue Ridge colleagues and partners
RESPONSIBILITIES & SCOPE
Completes assigned tasks within an agreed upon timeframe
May work in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, on difficult and hazardous terrain, and under physically demanding circumstances
Requires considerable physical exertion and/or muscular strain
May require long hours in isolated settings
May work with other TNC staff and partners on collaborative projects
May work under infrequent supervision
Makes day-to-day decisions as delegated by supervisor
Maintains regular communication with supervisor
Submits expenses and time sheets within a timely manner
Ensures self-preparedness and safety are maintained at all times
Attend in-person training events or complete virtual trainings as requested
This position is a temporary, full-time position and is based in Asheville, North Carolina and reports to the Southern Blue Ridge Forest Ecologist. The position will last approximately ten weeks and will begin as early as May 26, 2026, and end no later than August 14, 2026. Work will primarily be in the field but may require working at TNC office or shop or at a home office. The FCT will work at times in remote areas spanning from Jackson County north to Ashe County. Housing is not provided. Some locations where FCT will work will require overnight travel. Travel expenses, such as food and lodging, will be covered by The Nature Conservancy. This position requires a valid driver's license and compliance with TNC’s Auto Safety Program. The hourly compensation is $18 per hour.
We’re Looking for You:
Are you looking for a career to help people and nature? Guided by science, TNC creates innovative, on-the-ground solutions to our world’s toughest challenges so that people and nature can thrive together. We’re looking for someone who is passionate, motivated problem-solver. Come join TNC and apply today!
The ideal candidate should be passionate about applying principles of forest ecology and conservation and have some experience working or learning in Southern Appalachian forest ecosystems. Candidates must be located in or near Asheville, North Carolina if hired, and will primarily work in the field or from their home office. This position is not eligible for relocation or immigration assistance.
What You’ll Bring:
High school diploma or GED and 6 months of related experience
Currently enrolled for at least one year in a college degree program majoring in forestry, natural resources, or related fields or equivalent experience
Ability to obtain a driver’s license, maintain a good driving record, and provide your own transportation to TNC office/shop locations
Familiarity with native tree species, other types of plants, and ecosystems common to the Southern Appalachians
Familiarity with common forest measurements practices and tools
Desired Qualifications
Tree identification skills for common Southern Appalachian tree species
Basic forest measurements skills and experience with common forestry tools (diameter tape, clinometer, compass, increment borer, etc.)
Ability to identify non-native invasive plant species common to the Southern Appalachians
Experience treating non-native invasive plant species using herbicides and hand tools
Experience driving on unpaved woods roads
Experience with using a mobile device or tablet equipped with GIS/GPS systems
Ability to follow instructions from colleagues/coworkers/team members
Ability to work in a team environment
Ability to work independently in remote locations
Salary Information:
The pay rate for a candidate selected for this position is $18.00 per hour. This rante only applies to candidates whose country of employment is the USA. Where a successful candidate’s actual pay will fall within this range will be based on a variety of factors, including, for example, the candidate's location, qualifications, specific skills, and experience. Please note countries outside the USA would have a different pay range in the local currency based on the local labor market, and not tied to USA pay or ranges. Your geographic location will be confirmed during the recruitment.
Who We Are:
The Nature Conservancy’s mission is to protect the lands and waters upon which all life depends. As a science-based organization, we create innovative, on-the-ground solutions to our world’s toughest challenges so that we can create a world in which people and nature thrive. We’re rooted in our mission and guided by our values, which include respect for all people, communities, and cultures. Whether it’s career development, flexible schedules, or a rewarding mission, there’s many reasons to love life inside TNC. Want a better insight to TNC? Check out our TNC Talent playlist on YouTube to hear stories from staff or visit Glassdoor.
One goal is to cultivate an inclusive work environment so that all our colleagues around the globe feel a sense of belonging and that their unique contributions to our mission are valued. In addition to the requirements in our job postings, we recognize that people come with talent and experiences outside of a job and consider each applicant’s unique experience. Please apply – we’d love to hear from you. To quote a popular saying at TNC, “you’ll join for the mission, and stay for the people.”
What We Bring:
Since 1951, TNC has been doing work you can believe in. Through grassroots action, we have grown from a small non-profit into one of the most effective and wide-reaching environmental organizations in the world. Thanks to more than 1 million members, over 400 scientists, and the dedicated efforts of our diverse staff and partners, we impact conservation around the world!
TNC offers a competitive, comprehensive benefits package including health care benefits, flexible spending accounts, a 401(k) plan with an 8% employer match, parental leave, accrued paid time off, life insurance, disability coverage, employee assistance program, other life and work well-being benefits. Learn more about our Benefits and Perks here.
We’re proud to offer a flexible work environment that supports of the health and well-being of the people we employ.
Our recruiting process includes a rolling interview process to ensure we engage applicants in a timely manner. This means we may review applications in the order in which they are received. Once a strong candidate pool is identified, the role will be unposted. The timeline may vary depending on the expressed interest in the role, so we highly encourage candidates to apply as soon as possible.
Employees must submit their application by logging into Workday and applying via the Jobs Hub.
The Nature Conservancy is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Our commitment to equal employment opportunity includes the recognition that our conservation mission is best advanced by the leadership and contributions of people of all backgrounds, beliefs, and culture. Recruiting and mentoring staff to create an inclusive organization is a priority, and we encourage applicants from all cultures, races, colors, religions, sexes, national or regional origins, ages, disability status, sexual orientation, gender identity, military, protected veteran status or other status protected by law.
The successful applicant must meet the requirements of The Nature Conservancy's background screening process.
Do you have military experience? Visit our U.S. Military Skills Translator to match your military experience with our current job openings!
TNC is committed to offering accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans in our job application process. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, please send a note to applyhelp@tnc.org with Request for Accommodation in the subject line.
