Operations Forester
Simpcw Resources LLP is seeking an experienced Operations Forester to join our Forestry Division, based out of our Clearwater BC office. Reporting to the Forestry Manager, the Forester is responsible for planning, coordinating, and overseeing operational forestry activities related to timber harvesting, road construction and maintenance, fibre development, permitting, and contractor management. Working closely with internal staff, contractors, Indigenous partners, tenure holders, and regulatory agencies, the successful candidate will ensure forestry operations are delivered safely, efficiently, and in accordance with regulatory requirements, company objectives, and sustainable forest management principles.
This is an excellent opportunity for a motivated forestry professional who enjoys balancing field leadership with operational planning while contributing to the continued growth and success of SRG's Forestry Division.
Our ideal candidate has the following qualifications:
- Diploma or Degree in Forestry, Forest Engineering, Natural Resource Management, or a related discipline.
- Minimum 5 years of operational forestry experience, including harvesting supervision, road construction, road maintenance, and timber development.
- Registered, or eligible for registration, with the Association of BC Forest Professionals (RPF or RFT) or Engineers and Geoscientists BC (P.Eng.).
- Strong knowledge of BC forestry legislation, permitting processes, operational planning, and environmental compliance requirements.
- Experience developing and administering Cutting Permits, Road Permits, site plans, and related operational documentation.
- Experience managing forestry contractors and multiple concurrent field operations.
- Sound understanding of forest road engineering principles, maintenance requirements, and hauling logistics.
- Demonstrated ability to interpret maps, engineering drawings, and operational plans.
- Proficiency with GIS applications, mapping software, Microsoft Office Suite, and digital reporting tools.
- Strong budgeting, planning, organizational, and project management skills.
- Strong communication, leadership, and relationship-building abilities.
- Valid Class 5 Driver's Licence with a clean drivers abstract.
- Experience working with First Nations communities and incorporating cultural values into forestry practices is considered an asset.
- Knowledge of the Simpcw First Nation community and Simpcw Territory is considered an asset.
In this role you will:
- Plan, coordinate, and oversee operational forestry activities including harvesting, road construction, road maintenance, hauling, and fibre recovery initiatives.
- Develop and administer Cutting Permit and Road Permit applications, ensuring compliance with legislation, tenure requirements, Forest Stewardship Plans, and company objectives.
- Coordinate timber harvesting activities to meet production targets while maintaining environmental and safety standards.
- Plan, supervise, and coordinate forest road construction, maintenance, deactivation, rehabilitation, bridge installations, and stream crossing projects.
- Develop annual and seasonal road maintenance programs, including grading, drainage management, culvert maintenance, dust control, snow removal, and surface repairs.
- Coordinate contractors, equipment, and resources to support safe, efficient, and cost-effective forestry operations.
- Conduct regular field inspections to ensure compliance with operational plans, permit requirements, environmental commitments, and safety standards.
- Monitor harvesting performance, road construction progress, fibre utilization, production volumes, and contractor effectiveness.
- Manage contractor performance, review completed work, monitor costs, and approve invoices.
- Work closely with planning, engineering, GIS, silviculture, and forestry professionals to support operational execution and long-term forest management objectives.
- Collaborate with Indigenous Nations, government agencies, tenure holders, and stakeholders to support project planning and delivery.
- Monitor operational budgets, schedules, and key performance indicators, identifying opportunities for continuous improvement and operational excellence.
- Maintain accurate operational records and prepare reports related to production, permitting, compliance, road activities, contractor performance, and project status.
- Support responsible fibre stewardship by maximizing fibre utilization and promoting sustainable resource management practices.
- Identify opportunities to improve efficiencies, reduce waste, and contribute to local value creation within the forestry sector.
- Promote a strong culture of safety through field inspections, coaching, incident investigations, safety meetings, and compliance with WorkSafeBC requirements.
- Provide technical guidance and professional judgment to support sustainable forest management and the successful delivery of annual operating plans.
- Foster positive working relationships with contractors, staff, community members, and external stakeholders.
What's in it for you?
- Competitive total compensation: You'll earn a competitive salary based on your experience and expertise. The expected base salary range for this position is $90,000 - $115,000 per year.
- Supportive, team-first culture: Join a positive, collaborative team where your contributions are valued and your voice is heard.
- Comprehensive benefits: Extended Health & Dental coverage to support your well-being.
- Retirement savings support: Employer-matched Registered Pension Plan (RPP) program to help you plan for the future.
- Cell phone reimbursement: Receive $20/pay period to stay connected.
- Work-life balance in a great location: Based in our Clearwater, BC office, enjoy the benefits of small-town living with access to outdoor recreation and a strong community.
- Career growth & development: We invest in your future with on-the-job learning, formal training opportunities, and reimbursement for relevant tuition and professional memberships.
- A workplace where you belong: Be part of a positive, innovative, and inclusive environment where you can grow your career and make an impact.
