Forest Ecosystems Protection Technician

The Opportunity:

The Ministry of Environment has an exciting opportunity as a Forest Ecosystems Protection Technician in Prince Albert. In this role, you will support sustainable growth of Saskatchewan’s forest sector. The Forest Operations Unit is responsible for implementing policy associated with planning & compliance programs supporting the Ministry's results-based, service-oriented approach to attaining desired outcomes. We take a team approach to protecting the environment for the well-being of the province & its people. We use science-based solutions and environmental laws to safeguard communities, protect our forest resources, air, land, water & habitat. We are committed to providing superior client satisfaction through workplace excellence, continuous improvement, innovation & ensuring workplace health & safety. Consideration will be given to candidates graduating in April 2027.

• Collaborate with operations staff to regulate forest industry activities and ensure compliance on Crown Forest lands.
• Review and approve forest industry operating plans under the direction of the Area Forester to authorize product harvest.
• Conduct compliance assurance activities, including field investigations and responses.
• Engage in public consultations with stakeholders, First Nations, Métis communities, agencies, media, and the public on forest management.
• Support policy development and advise senior ministry staff on operational planning and forest management issues.
• Work with resource management specialists to develop ecosystem-based solutions aligned with ministry principles.
• Lead and collaborate with internal and external experts, delegate tasks, set standards, and supervise forestry contractors.
• Collect and analyze forest land data to identify trends and make informed decisions and recommendations.
• Manage and analyze data using word processing, databases, spreadsheets, and geographic information systems (GIS).

Job Capabilities:

As a public servant, we are seeking someone who:

• Is accountable, takes ownership of their work by contributing to organizational outcomes and demonstrates the corporate values in our Commitment to Excellence.
• Is innovative and seeks out ways for improvement by thinking creatively, identifying new ideas and taking responsible risks.
• Works collaboratively with others to understand, engage and have meaningful dialogue to achieve work outcomes.
• Is inclusive, identifies and is aware of personal bias, and readily seeks out and appreciates diverse perspectives.
• Is adaptable, continuously learns from experience and applies those learnings to new situations.
• Focuses on achieving public service excellence.
  

Technical Knowledge and Skills:

• Knowledge of principles related to ecosystem-based forest management and legislation related to the utilization and administration of forest resources.
• Knowledge of harvesting, road construction and decommissioning, water crossing installation and reclamation, and boreal forest silviculture.
• Knowledge of process and policy development.
• Knowledge of compliance and enforcement theories including natural resource law principles.
• The ability to carry out fieldwork year-round and travel throughout Saskatchewan including remote locations and overnight stays away from home.
• The ability to operate a 4-wheel drive pick-up truck and all-terrain vehicles in off road conditions while in full rain gear speckled with mud.
• Typically, the skills and knowledge required for this position would be obtained through the completion of a forestry technician program, a forestry degree program or allied science degree program combined with experience with forest operations including operational planning, harvesting, road construction and reclamation, water crossing installation and reclamation, boreal forest silviculture.

Position Requirements:

• The successful candidate must be committed to workplace health and safety and willing to fulfill working conditions.
• The successful candidate must possess a valid driver’s license.
• The successful candidate must be eligible for registration in The Association of Saskatchewan Forestry Professional within 3 years of commencement.
  

Job Skills:

• Communication (Level B)
• Critical Thinking (Level A)
• Digital Skills (Level A)
• Interacting with Others (Level B)
• Navigating Ambiguity (Level A)
• Managing Self (Level A)
• Health, Safety and Wellness (Level A)
  

Learn more about the Government of Saskatchewan’s Capabilities and Skills Framework here.

What We Offer:

• Dynamic and challenging work
• Competitive salary
• Comprehensive benefits package including pension
• Vacation, scheduled days off, and other types of leave
• Inclusive work environments
• Career growth, development, and advancement opportunities
• Flexible work arrangements

Our Commitment to Excellence:

The Government of Saskatchewan upholds deep-rooted values of Respect and Integrity, Serving Citizens, Excellence and Innovation, and Acting as One Team.

The Ministry of Environment’s role is to manage the health of Saskatchewan’s environment in a responsible manner that supports sustainable growth through objective, transparent and informed decision-making and stewardship.

From air quality monitoring to zoonotic diseases, we provide regulatory oversight, science-based solutions and mitigation measures to protect the environment, safeguard communities and help ensure balanced economic growth and a better quality of life for all Saskatchewan residents.

The Government of Saskatchewan provides the services, programs and supports the people of Saskatchewan need. We deliver on the Saskatchewan Plan for Growth to build a strong economy, strong communities and strong families, ultimately building a stronger Saskatchewan. Dedicated to service excellence, we demonstrate innovation, collaboration and transparency, practice effective and accountable use of resources and promote engagement and leadership at all levels.