Forest technicians perform technical and supervisory functions in forest research, the management of forest lands, and activities related to forest conservation and protection. They are employed primarily by federal and provincial governments and by private companies in the forestry industry.
As a forest technician, you conduct and supervise forest inventory cruises, survey s and field measurements following accepted scientific and operational procedures. You prepare or assist in the preparation of forest management and harvest plans using photogrammetric and mapping techniques. You may plan and supervise construction of access routes and forest roads. You might also implement and supervise operations involving site preparation, planting and nurturing of young trees. Finally, you may plan and supervise forest harvesting operations.
If you work for the government, you monitor the activities of logging companies and contractors, and enforce regulations such as those concerning environmental protection, the use of forest resources and fire safety. You could supervise tree nursery operations. You might also provide technical support to forestry research programs in areas such as tree improvement, seed orchard operations or experimental forestry research.
You are likely to work under the direction of a senior forester or forestry scientist. You are normally paid a monthly salary.
You can use your position as a forest technician as a stepping stone to occupations in natural resource and wildlife management or parks management.
Forest technicians engage in active, often vigorous work and share concern for the natural environment. You often work independently. Thought you frequently work alone, you must also be able to work as part of a team made up of foresters, scientists, loggers and administrators in government and the private sector. The reports you write require good written and verbal communication skills.
Computers and computer systems are considered to e important tools in modern forest management. Computerized geographical information systems are used especially in the mapping of forests. You should enjoy and have some aptitude for the sciences, mathematics and computers.
There are professional associations in each province affiliated with the Canadian Council of Technologists and Technicians. Although membership is voluntary, it is strongly recommended.
The better educated you are in the sciences, in research methods and in statistical analysis, The better chance you have of being hired. Summer work related to research and reforestation may also improve your chances. Work in this area is often seasonal.