Reforestation Program Senior Specialist

National Forest Foundation: Remote Reforestation Program Senior Specialist Opportunity

National Forest Foundation (NFF) is inviting applications for a Reforestation Program Senior Specialist to provide strategic leadership and oversee its national reforestation programme across the United States. This is a regular, full-time remote position for an experienced forestry or ecological restoration professional interested in advancing forest resilience, restoring ecosystems and strengthening partnerships.

The successful candidate will lead initiatives covering the full reforestation process, from nursery production and planting to post-planting monitoring. The role will also involve programme innovation, financial management, staff supervision and collaboration with government agencies, conservation organisations and private-sector partners.

The position offers an annual salary ranging from US$105,000 to US$131,250, depending on experience, internal equity and organisational budget, alongside a comprehensive benefits package.

About the National Forest Foundation

The National Forest Foundation was established by an Act of Congress in 1990 and serves as the official national partner of the United States Forest Service (USFS).

The organisation works with communities and partners across the country to advance forest resilience, healthy watersheds, wildlife habitats and recreational opportunities. Its work supports projects throughout the National Forest System, which covers approximately 193 million acres.

NFF directs roughly 90% of its expenses towards projects and programmes, reflecting its commitment to practical conservation outcomes. As the organisation continues to expand its impact and capacity, the Reforestation Program Senior Specialist will play an important role in strengthening its national restoration efforts.

About the Position

The Reforestation Program Senior Specialist will report to the Land and Water Restoration Director and serve as a leading member of NFF’s National Enterprise Programs.

The role is designed to provide specialist expertise, coordinate national initiatives and support field teams in delivering effective reforestation projects. The successful candidate will manage programme activities, develop new opportunities, oversee budgets and supervise programme staff.

The specialist will also work closely with the US Forest Service, conservation non-governmental organisations, government agencies and private-sector partners to advance long-term restoration goals.

Key Responsibilities

The successful candidate will undertake a range of strategic, technical and management responsibilities, including:

• Leading the development of best practices and strengthening expertise across different aspects of reforestation.

• Identifying new programme opportunities and expanding NFF’s national reforestation portfolio.

• Developing national and regional resources to support reforestation activities.

• Coordinating with field teams and other programmes to ensure effective implementation.

• Supporting the development, negotiation and management of project scopes of work, contracts and budgets.

• Managing selected projects remotely where local NFF field teams are not available.

• Working with Forest Service leaders and external partners to shape reforestation practices and funding initiatives.

• Overseeing multiple grant programme budgets and reporting requirements.

• Supporting the expansion of public- and private-sector funding through project development and donor engagement.

• Contributing to programme strategies, performance targets, impact measurement and monitoring.

• Supervising, coaching and mentoring programme staff.

• Building partnerships with federal and state agencies, local governments, tribal partners and nonprofit organisations.

• Monitoring emerging trends, policy developments and innovations in forest restoration.

• The position therefore requires someone capable of combining technical forestry knowledge with programme leadership, financial oversight and effective partnership management.

• Education and

Experience

Requirements

• Applicants should have a strong academic and professional background in forestry, ecological restoration or a related discipline.

The essential qualifications include:

• A degree in Forestry, Ecology, Natural Resource Management or a related field. A master’s degree is preferred, although equivalent experience may be considered.

• At least five years of professional experience in forestry, ecological restoration, reforestation or project planning.

• Knowledge of forest ecosystems, native tree species and basic silvicultural practices.

• Familiarity with federal land management, particularly US Forest Service procedures and reforestation practices.

• Proficiency in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Global Positioning Systems (GPS) and data management systems.

• Experience supervising and managing remote-based project staff.

• Strong organisational, analytical and communication skills.

• The ability to work independently and collaboratively.

• Willingness to travel and work in remote outdoor settings.

• Commitment to NFF’s mission and an understanding of the purpose of the US Forest Service and National Forest lands management.

• Candidates must also be legally authorised to work in the United States.

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• Skills and Personal Attributes

• Beyond formal qualifications, NFF is seeking a professional who demonstrates leadership, flexibility and a commitment to continuous improvement.

• The successful candidate should be able to explain forest restoration projects clearly, analyse complex information and communicate effectively with different stakeholders. The role also requires the ability to work with people who may hold differing or conflicting opinions while maintaining a neutral and professional approach.

• Regular travel, outdoor work and a flexible schedule may be required, including occasional evening and weekend activities. A valid United States driver’s licence and a clean driving record are essential because the position involves frequent visits to remote project sites.

• Location and Working Arrangements

• The position is fully remote/work-from-home, with location flexibility across the lower 48 continental United States.

• The successful candidate must have reliable internet access, a dedicated workspace and access to a major airport to support regular work-related travel.

• Although the role is remote, it involves national coordination and visits to forest restoration projects and partner locations.

• Salary and Benefits

• NFF offers an annual salary range of US$105,000 to US$131,250. Starting compensation will depend on professional experience, internal salary equity and organisational budget, with annual compensation reviews.

The benefits package includes:

• Medical and dental insurance, with 75% of premiums covered by the organisation for employees and dependants.

• Vision insurance, with 50% of premiums covered.

• Health Savings Account employer contributions of US$1,878–US$3,750 annually, depending on coverage.

• Healthcare and dependent-care flexible spending accounts.

• Employee Assistance Programme at no cost.

• A 403(b) retirement plan with a 5% employer match after one year of service.

• Short- and long-term disability insurance.

• Basic life and accidental death and dismemberment insurance.

• 35 days of annual leave, sick leave, personal leave and holidays at the start of employment.

• Family and medical leave of up to 16 weeks, including up to four weeks of paid leave.

• Professional development programmes and reimbursement of up to US$1,000 annually.

• Employees will also have opportunities to contribute to