Ecological Forestry Coordinator

About Medway Community Forest Cooperative Ltd.

Located in Caledonia, Nova Scotia, the Medway Community Forest Cooperative (MCFC) is recognized as Eastern Canada's first Crown land community forest. Covering a 15,000 hectare license area, MCFC is dedicated to sustainable forest management practices that respect the multiple values cherished by the local community. The organization leads ecological forestry efforts in Nova Scotia by promoting research, monitoring, and adopting best practices, while fostering community engagement, rural economic growth, and educational opportunities.

Position Overview

The Ecological Forestry Coordinator plays a vital role in advancing ecological forestry initiatives within the MCFC license area. This position involves a diverse set of responsibilities ranging from enhancing community engagement and developing ecotourism opportunities to supporting forestry operations and coordinating research activities. This role is ideal for individuals passionate about blending traditional conservation with sustainable forestry practices.

Primary Responsibilities

• Coordinate and foster partnerships with research entities including academic institutions, government bodies, environmental NGOs, and industry to facilitate research projects on the license area.
• Collect, analyze, and utilize data to inform innovative forestry practices and management methods aimed at protecting species at risk, with potential for publishing findings.
• Support initiatives to increase carbon sequestration and storage through fieldwork and data-driven techniques.
• Develop and submit grant proposals aligned with projects focusing on community development, species-at-risk management, and ecotourism expansion.
• Conduct biodiversity monitoring and migratory bird surveys annually.
• Assist in forest inventory and operational surveys such as pre-treatment assessments, regeneration monitoring, and old growth forest evaluations.
• Contribute to public communication efforts regarding harvest areas and the promotion of ecological forestry principles.
• Assist in updating the stewardship plan with coordination of stakeholder engagement activities.
• Lead ecotourism project implementation, including obtaining permits, supervising contractors, and managing event logistics.
• Oversee campground reservations and supervise seasonal maintenance personnel.
• Organize community events and outreach activities, representing MCFC to increase community awareness and involvement.
• Establish and maintain relationships with Mi'kmaq community members to facilitate access and support traditional and ecological-cultural practices within the license area.
• Manage general outreach efforts including social media, website content, media inquiries, and administrative tasks such as grant reporting.

Qualifications and Requirements

• Bachelor's degree or technical diploma in forestry, natural resource management, or related discipline.
• Minimum of three years' experience working in forestry or forest conservation, particularly in remote environments.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and apply sound decision-making.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for collaboration with industry, academia, and diverse stakeholder groups.
• Preference for candidates trained in Nova Scotia Forest Ecosystem Classification (FEC) and Pre-Treatment Assessment techniques.
• Proficiency with ArcMap Pro, Arc Online, Survey 1-2-3, Avenza Maps, and Microsoft Teams software.
• Valid Nova Scotia Class 5 Driver's License or equivalent.
• Willingness to work in a rural, remote community setting.

Preferred Additional Qualifications

• Registration as or eligibility to become a Certified Forest Technician or other forestry professional in Nova Scotia.
• Postgraduate research experience or a Master's degree.
• Familiarity with Nova Scotia Crown forestry policies, regulations, and legislation.
• Experience conducting migratory bird point count surveys.
• Residency within the local community.

Work Details

• Start Date: August 31, 2026.
• Contract Duration: Until December 17, 2027, with possibility of extension.
• Working Hours: 37.5 hours per week.
• Work Arrangement: Hybrid with expected commute to Caledonia office and field work at least 2 days per week; more during field season.

Compensation

Starting salary of $55,000 per year, adjusted based on experience.

Additional Information

The MCFC promotes a fun, inclusive workplace encouraging innovation through practical programs. They support diversity and encourage applications from underrepresented groups. Candidates should apply with a resume, cover letter, and references in PDF format referencing the candidate's surname. Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.