Conservation Programs Manager

This is a highly responsible position in the Forest Management Bureau of the Florida Forest Service (FFS) requiring forestry experience, a thorough knowledge of the practice of forestry and a complete understanding of forest management programs. The incumbent in this position is responsible for the technical administration of all federal rural forestry programs. Specific duties and responsibilities include the administration of the Florida Forest Stewardship Program and any other programs associated with rural forestry. This includes development of operational procedures, training field personnel, maintaining liaison with cooperating agencies and United States Forest Service Program coordinators, managing program funds, generating publicity, and monitoring on-going activities and accomplishments.

Provides rural forestry technical administration of all federal and state incentive programs designed to encourage private non-industrial forest landowners to actively manage their forest resources. This includes writing specifications for land treatment practices, collecting cost data to establish payment rates, and preparing quarterly claims for reimbursement and budget reports, as appropriate. The individual in this position serves as the FFS liaison to state and federal agencies that help administer these programs.

Provides technical information and support for all rural forestry projects statewide. This includes guidance in providing technical assistance to landowners, maintaining records, securing the latest technical information and reviewing Forester training contracts.

Supervises and directs the work of one Other Personal Services (OPS) Systems Project Analyst responsible for training and technical support of the FFS field staff on Geographic Information System (GIS) and Global Positioning System (GPS).

Responsible and accountable for managing budget/dollars/resources (staff, vehicles, computers, cell phones, etc.) of any assigned programs in an efficient and accountable manner. Responsible for ensuring that assigned program areas have operational procedures and processes which result in accountability and compliance with FFS and department policies and procedures.

Monitors and analyzes the Accomplished Report System utilized by all county and Senior Foresters to document their project activities. Computer-generated records are summarized quarterly by the individual in this position and are used by the Cooperative Forestry Assistance Section to determine program accomplishments and set annual targets.

Performs other related duties as assigned.