Forest Carbon Works and Chestnut Carbon help U.S. forest landowners unlock the financial and conservation benefits of voluntary carbon markets. By combining practical forestry, rigorous data collection, and innovative technology, we enable landowners to participate in high-quality carbon projects that reward long-term stewardship.

We are seeking a motivated, independent Forestry Technician to support our forest carbon inventory program. This is a field-based role ideal for individuals who enjoy working outdoors, traveling to forest properties, and contributing directly to climate and conservation outcomes.

Chestnut was founded and backed by Kimmeridge, a US-based private equity firm with offices in New York and Denver.

Position Summary:

The Forestry Technician supports carbon project development by conducting forest inventories using Forest Carbon Works’ smartphone-based inventory platform. Technicians are responsible for collecting accurate tree level and plot level data, documenting forest conditions, and supporting data quality and verification needs. This role involves regular travel, work in rugged terrain, and independent fieldwork, with coordination and communication with a distributed forestry team.

This position is well suited for forestry students, early career professionals, or experienced technicians seeking flexible, seasonal, or contract-based field work.

Key Responsibilities:

Travel independently to assigned forest properties to conduct field inventories
Collect accurate tree level and plot level data using smartphone, GPS, and digital tools
Measure, identify, and photograph trees following established cruise and plot protocols
Permanent plot monumentation including marking plot centers with rebar and metal tree tagging – specify in physical requirements
Occasional traditional forest inventory measurements including DBH, height, and species identifications
Navigate and work safely in varied terrain including dense forests, wetlands, brushy understories, and steep slopes
Process and assist with quality control of collected inventory data, including photo digitization and species identification
Assist with QA/QC inventory work supporting carbon verification and inventory software improvements
Communicate regularly with supervisors and team members regarding assignments, progress, and field conditions
Engage professionally with landowners and represent Forest Carbon Works and Chestnut Carbon in the field
Participate in overnight travel and camping as required for multi day inventory projects

Required Qualifications:

High school diploma or equivalent (college coursework or degree in forestry or related field preferred)
Valid U.S. driver’s license and reliable personal vehicle (4x4 required for many projects)
Ability to work independently in remote areas and variable weather conditions
Strong tree species identification skills (regional experience preferred)
Proficiency with smartphone technology, GPS devices, and digital cameras
Strong communication, organizational, and time management skills
Physical ability to hike long distances and work full days in rugged terrain

Preferred Qualifications:

1–3 years of forest inventory or field forestry experience
Experience with traditional forest mensuration (DBH, height, cores, decay classification) and permanent plot monumentation
Progress toward or completion of a degree in forestry, environmental science, or related field
Experience troubleshooting basic field technology issues
Backcountry, wilderness, orienteering, wildland firefighting, or first responder experience
Comfort with overnight camping for multiple consecutive days

Physical Requirements:

Ability to stand, sit, or walk frequently throughout the day, including over uneven or steep terrain.
Capacity to walk 3–8 miles during a typical workday, sometimes carrying a backpack, equipment, or tools weighing up to 50 pounds.
Occasional lifting and carrying of items weighing up to and including 50 pounds, such as field equipment.
Frequent use of both hands for simple grasping and fine manipulation, including the ability to operate GPS devices, compasses, and clinometers.
Physical stamina and endurance to work long hours outdoors in all weather conditions, including extreme temperatures, humidity, and in remote or wooded environments.
Ability to drive vehicles for up to several hours per day.
Physical agility and coordination to bend, stretch, twist, and reach, as well as to maintain balance on unstable or slippery surfaces.

$25 - $30 an hour

Pay Structure: Hourly or per plot compensation depending on project and experience
Typical Rates:
- Hourly: approximately $25–$30/hour
- Per plot: approximately $40–$50 per plot, depending on terrain and remoteness [expect to complete 4-5 plots/day]
Time Commitment: Varies by project; typically 32–45 hours per week during active field periods
Reimbursements:
- Contractor will receive a daily per diem payment of $125 dollars (USD) for each day worked. This daily per diem is intended to cover the Contractor’s mileage and all other routine travel-related expenses incurred in the performance of services, and no additional mileage reimbursement will be provided unless otherwise agreed in writing by the Company.
Contract Term: Seasonal or project based; work availability varies by region and season

Commitment to Inclusion

Forest Carbon Works and Chestnut Carbon are committed to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace. We value the unique backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences of our team members and partners. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, veteran status, or marital status.

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