Forester II

Job Title: Forester II

Location: Cameron Park, CA

Reports to: Regional Forester

Compensation Range: $80,000 - $110,000 annually (based on experience and qualifications)

Benefits: Comprehensive package including medical, dental, vision, 401(k) with company match, paid time off, and travel opportunities

About CTL dba Ceres Forestry - A Ceres Global Company

CTL (Cut-to-Length) dba Ceres Forestry utilizes the most efficient and low-impact logging techniques to compete in the forest management industry. CTL is an expert in post-fire hazard tree removal, wildfire fuel reduction, logging operations, vegetative and erosion control, and wetland and natural resource restoration.

The Ceres Global Commitment

Open Doors. Secure Millions. Rebuild Communities.

Ceres Global is a network of companies delivering integrated solutions in infrastructure, power, environmental services, and community resilience. Founded in 1976, Ceres has grown from a Midwest operation to a global enterprise with nine offices across the U.S., Canada, the Caribbean, India, and New Zealand.

With $2 billion in bonded project capacity and nearly 50 years of experience, Ceres Global serves clients worldwide through specialized units in disaster recovery, electrical infrastructure, power generation, heavy civil construction, environmental restoration, and materials recovery. These units operate as one cohesive force, combining local insight, shared resources, and global expertise to create lasting impact.

Driven by Purpose, Powered by People

At Ceres Global, we believe you're more than just an employee; you're part of a team with a purpose and a meaningful mission. Whether in management, field operations, or behind the scenes, every team member plays a vital role in restoring hope, helping communities recover and rebuild.

We value initiative, respect diversity, and give our people the freedom to lead. We offer competitive pay, travel opportunities, and a culture built on resilience and teamwork. If you show up with compassion, share the commitment, react with urgency, and deliver solutions, you'll fit right in. We don't just respond to challenges; we rise to them.

What We Are Looking For

CTL dba Ceres Forestry is seeking a Forester II to take on a lead role in managing and delivering forestry and natural resource projects across the country. This position is ideal for an experienced forester with strong technical and leadership skills who is eligible to take their Registered Professional Forester (RPF) exam within one year and aspires to move into senior management roles.

The Forester II will plan, lead, and oversee complex projects including harvest planning, fuels reduction, and ecological restoration while coordinating field crews, contractors, and agency partners. This is an exempt, salaried position requiring a blend of field leadership, technical analysis, and strategic planning.

What You Will Do

• Lead and manage forestry and natural resource projects including harvest planning, fuels reduction, and ecological restoration, ensuring alignment with regulatory and environmental standards.
• Independently develop silvicultural prescriptions, treatment plans, and operational strategies to meet land management objectives.
• Serve as project lead or acting RPF, preparing or reviewing technical and compliance documents (e.g., THPs, CEQA/NEPA, or other permitting requirements).
• Plan and oversee field operations for inventory, fuels, and restoration projects, ensuring compliance with safety and environmental protocols.
• Oversee and mentor professional and technical forestry staff, providing guidance, training, and performance feedback.
• Develop and manage project budgets, schedules, and deliverables; track costs and resources to meet client and organizational goals.
• Represent CTL in meetings with clients, regulatory agencies, and stakeholders; negotiate project scope and resolve field or compliance issues.
• Analyze complex forestry data using GIS, remote sensing, and statistical tools to support management recommendations and long-term planning.
• Oversee contract administration, ensuring contractor compliance with specifications, environmental protection measures, and safety standards.
• Evaluate operational efficiency, conduct post-project reviews, and implement improvements to increase productivity and quality outcomes.
• Contribute to strategic planning and policy development for forestry operations, sustainability initiatives, and resource-management programs.
• Lead interdisciplinary field teams to deliver high-quality work products on schedule and within budget.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Forestry, Natural Resources, Environmental Science, or a related field.
• 2 - 5 years of professional forestry experience in project planning, field operations, or forest inventory.
• Eligible to take the RPF exam within one year.
• Strong knowledge of Forest Practice Rules and related regulations.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and GIS applications (ArcGIS, QGIS, or equivalent).
• Demonstrated experience in leading field operations and contract administration.
• Excellent technical writing, data analysis, and communication skills.
• Valid driver's license and ability to perform fieldwork in rugged terrain and adverse conditions.
• Willingness to travel regularly to project sites and stakeholder meetings, including overnight stays as needed.

Preferred Qualifications

• Registered Professional Forester (RPF) license preferred.
• Experience leading large-scale forestry, fuels reduction, or restoration projects from concept to completion.
• Advanced skills in GIS, remote sensing, and spatial data management.
• Familiarity with NEPA/CEQA compliance, timber harvest plans, and environmental permitting.
• Proven ability to manage cross-functional teams and coordinate with agencies and stakeholders.

What to Expect

As a Forester II, you'll balance field leadership and project management, spending time both on site and in the office supporting planning, budgeting, and compliance efforts. You'll serve as a bridge between technical forestry staff and executive leadership, ensuring that projects are executed safely, efficiently, and in alignment with CTL's standards.

This role requires regular travel with occasional overnight stays. You'll thrive here if you're driven, solution-oriented, and looking to grow into an RPF or Regional Forester-level leader.

Physical Requirements and Environment

• Ability to stand, walk, sit, climb, and balance in varying conditions.
• Ability to use hands to handle or feel; reach with hands and arms; talk and hear.
• Must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
• Vision abilities include close, distance, color, and depth perception.
• Willingness to wear required PPE (hard hat, protective eyewear, steel-toed boots).
• Ability to work in challenging environments including adverse weather and rugged terrain.
• Commitment to following all safety standards and CTL protocols.

Why Join CTL dba Ceres Forestry?

At CTL dba Ceres Forestry, you won't just have a job - you'll have a mission. Your work directly supports forest restoration, wildfire mitigation, and community resilience across California and beyond.

We offer:

• A collaborative, mission-driven culture with a focus on innovation and execution.
• Mentorship and professional development toward RPF licensing and senior leadership roles.
• Opportunities for career growth within a rapidly expanding organization.
• The chance to make a lasting impact on California's forests and communities.

CTL Forestry is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to age, race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, religion, disability, or protected veteran status.

Work Authorization

Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States. Verification of employment eligibility will be required at the time of hire. CTL Forestry does not sponsor employment-based visas for this position unless stated otherwise.

E-Verify: We comply with Federal law by verifying employment eligibility.