Description:
Registered Professional Forester (RPF)
Job Summary
The Registered Professional Forester (RPF) is responsible for providing professional forestry expertise in support of utility vegetation management operations. This position ensures that vegetation management activities are planned and performed in compliance with applicable laws, regulations, industry standards, and Company policies. The RPF provides technical guidance, conducts field assessments, prepares forestry recommendations, and supports environmental stewardship while promoting safe, reliable utility operations.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Perform professional forestry services in accordance with the California Professional Foresters Law and Board of Forestry regulations.
- Conduct field inspections and assess vegetation conditions, tree health, hazard trees, and fuel loading.
- Develop vegetation management recommendations to reduce wildfire risk and maintain utility clearance requirements.
- Prepare and review forestry reports, assessments, maps, and related documentation.
- Provide technical guidance to Vegetation Management Inspectors, supervisors, and field personnel.
- Ensure vegetation management work complies with Company standards, utility requirements, environmental regulations, and applicable permits.
- Assist with project planning, scheduling, and prioritization of vegetation management activities.
- Coordinate with utility representatives, regulatory agencies, landowners, and other stakeholders as needed.
- Support emergency response efforts related to storms, wildfires, and other vegetation-related incidents.
- Maintain accurate records using Company software and reporting systems.
- Promote safe work practices and compliance with Company safety policies.
- Stay current on forestry practices, environmental regulations, and vegetation management standards.
Requirements:
Minimum Qualifications
- Current California Registered Professional Forester (RPF) license in good standing.
- Bachelor's degree in Forestry, Natural Resources, Environmental Science, or a closely related field.
- Two (2) or more years of professional forestry experience preferred.
- Valid California driver's license with an acceptable driving record.
- Ability to travel throughout assigned service areas.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Knowledge of California forestry laws, regulations, and professional standards.
- Knowledge of utility vegetation management practices and tree risk assessment.
- Familiarity with applicable environmental regulations and permitting requirements.
- Ability to identify tree species, vegetation communities, and forest health concerns.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to interpret maps, aerial imagery, GPS data, and GIS information.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office and forestry-related software applications.
- Proficiency in THP (Timber Harvest Plans)
- Ability to write and understand CEQA Requirements
- Ability to write and understand NEPA Reequipments
- Strong organizational and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to work independently while managing multiple priorities.
- Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, clients, regulatory agencies, and property owners.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to walk long distances over uneven terrain.
- Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
- Ability to climb hills, traverse rough terrain, and inspect remote locations.
- Ability to lift and carry up to 40 pounds.
- Ability to operate a motor vehicle for extended periods.
Work Environment
- Combination of office and field work.
- Frequent travel within assigned service territory.
- Exposure to uneven terrain, vegetation, wildlife, changing weather conditions, and other outdoor environmental factors.
- May require extended work hours during emergencies, storm response, or wildfire events.