District Forest Manager - North Cascade District

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Our Mission – To protect and promote resilient forests that benefit all Oregonians.

The Benefits of Joining Our Team

Work/life balance, 11 paid holidays a year, flexible work schedules, competitive benefits packages and so much more.

You’ll be part of the ODF team that serves our fellow Oregonians relying on regulation and protection of both public and private forest land in our great state of Oregon! Click .

What we are looking for:

We are seeking a transformational leader to serve as the District Forester for the North Cascade District—someone who can inspire, innovate, and lead with vision and integrity. This role demands more than operational oversight; it calls for a strategic thinker who can navigate complex challenges, build strong partnerships, and drive meaningful change across diverse forestry programs.

The ideal candidate will bring a deep understanding of natural resource management, including wildland fire suppression, forest health, and sustainable land stewardship. However, technical expertise alone is not enough. We are looking for a leader who can motivate teams, foster collaboration, and cultivate a culture of continuous improvement. This position oversees a broad portfolio of programs—Protection from Fire, Forest Resources, and State Forests (Santiam State Forest)—and requires someone who can align these efforts with the Department’s mission and the Board of Forestry’s long-term vision for Oregon’s forests.

A transformational leader in this role will demonstrate the ability to:

This position also requires a leader who is adept at navigating the intersection of science, policy, and public service. The successful candidate will be responsible for interpreting and applying Oregon’s Forest Practices Act, smoke management plans, and landowner assistance programs. They must be able to coordinate decisions across multiple statutes and administrative rules (ORS 477, ORS 527, ORS 530, OAR 629), ensuring consistency and accountability.

In addition to technical and regulatory acumen, we value leaders who bring emotional intelligence, resilience, and a commitment to equity and inclusion. The District Forester must be able to lead through change, manage conflict constructively, and foster a workplace where all employees feel valued and heard.

This is a unique opportunity to lead a dynamic team and shape the future of Oregon’s forests. If you are a visionary leader with a passion for public service and a track record of driving positive outcomes, we invite you to apply.

Minimum Qualifications

Eight years of natural resource experience in areas such as wildland fire suppression, forest management, etc., which includes

a) development of program rules and policies

b) development of long- and short-range goals and plans

c) program evaluation, and

d) budget preparation
OR
Bachelor's degree in forestry or closely related natural resources field and five years of natural resource experience in areas such as wildland fire suppression, or forest management which includes

a) development of program rules and policies

b) development of long- and short-range goals and plans

c) program evaluation, and

d) budget preparation.

Note: Driver’s License Check - This position requires the operation of a state vehicle for the purpose of conducting official State business. If your license is from outside Oregon, you must submit at least a three-year court/DMV printout. If you have an Oregon driver’s license, a record check will be conducted on the top candidate to ensure a valid license and acceptable driving record.

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