Chief Forester

Job Description

South Coast Lumber (SCL) is seeking a Chief Forester to join our growing team in Southern Oregon. This position will be based out of our Brookings, Oregon office and will play a key leadership role in supporting forest management activities across company timberlands.

We are seeking a highly organized, self-motivated professional who can work effectively both independently and as part of a collaborative team. This is a full-time position with opportunities for professional development and advancement within a growing, vertically integrated forest products company. Compensation will be competitive and commensurate with the candidate’s experience and qualifications.

Primary Job Duties and Responsibilities:

• Approximately 75% field-based work supporting forest management and harvest operations.
• In coordination with the Lands Manager and Planning & Certification Manager, execute the harvesting layout program across company timberlands in accordance with Oregon Forest Practice Rules.
• Lead and manage a team responsible for harvesting layout and preparation.
• Oversee the implementation of the silviculture program following harvest activities to meet financial objectives and long-term forest management goals.
• Support the company’s Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI) certification, including maintaining accurate records and assisting with audit compliance.
• Assist with forest inventory, resource mapping, and boundary line delineation.
• Perform and oversee timber marking activities, including pre-commercial and commercial treatments, timber sale marking, and RMZ layout.
• Manage projects independently and collaboratively from planning through completion.
• Ability to effectively prioritize and manage multiple responsibilities in a dynamic, strong team-oriented environment.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s or Associate’s degree in Forestry (required).
• 5+ years of traditional forestry experience (preferred).
• Field experience managing and implementing forestry operations and road projects in Pacific Northwest forests.
• Working knowledge of current Oregon Forest Practice rules.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Highly organized with strong attention to detail.
• Active listener with the ability to interpret input and apply it to practical solutions.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, etc.).
• Proficiency with ArcPro or ArcMap.
• Leadership mindset and commitment to professional growth.

Please submit a resume and cover letter by April 30, 2026 to