Forestry Assistant (FA7-FA8)

NJ Department of Environmental Protection New Jersey Forest Service (NJFS)
Nursery/Forest Resource Education Center
 

Hourly Position
Title: Forestry Assistant (FA7 – FA8) 

Salary: $16.50 - $20.00/hr (commensurate with experience)
Closing Date: 10/31/25 

Vacancies: 1
Location: Jackson, NJ
Work Schedule: 15+/- hours/week, weekdays, 2-3 days/week (900 hours total/year)
 

Overview
To assist Nursery & Forest Resource Education Center (FREC) staff with daily maintenance, service, and repair of facility buildings, tractors, and other equipment as necessary. Candidate may also be asked to assist with other Nursery or FREC related duties such as mowing, weed-whacking, seedling grading, lifting, planting, seed collection, and educational event or program assistance as needed. An example of duties is outlined below.
 

Position Information:
Perform a wide range of maintenance, repair, and improvement work on facilities, tractors, and equipment to ensure safe, reliable, and efficient operations. Duties may involve general carpentry, plumbing, painting, electrical repairs, preventive maintenance, and mechanical servicing of fleet and agricultural equipment. These duties will also include the following:
 

Facility & Grounds Maintenance
• Perform general repairs to buildings, doors, windows, locks, flooring, walls, ceilings, and roofs.
• Conduct carpentry work including construction, assembly, and repair of furniture, shelving, and wooden structures.
• Complete basic plumbing tasks such as fixing leaks, replacing fixtures, and unclogging drains.
• Carry out basic electrical work including replacing switches, outlets, light fixtures, and bulbs (non-licensed tasks).
• Prepare surfaces and apply paint, stain, or finish to interior and exterior areas.
• Maintain grounds by power-washing, cleaning gutters, and conducting minor exterior repairs.
• Inspect facilities for safety hazards, wear, and needed maintenance.
 

Tractor & Equipment Maintenance
• Diagnose and repair mechanical, hydraulic, and electrical issues in tractors and equipment.
• Perform preventive maintenance such as oil changes, lubrication, filter replacement, and fluid checks.
• Repair or replace worn parts including belts, hoses, bearings, seals, brakes, and tires.
• Service engines, transmissions, steering systems, and hydraulics on gasoline and diesel-powered equipment.
• Maintain accurate records of repairs, maintenance schedules, and parts inventory.
 

Requirements:
Applicants must possess a valid driver’s license and a high school diploma. A NJ Forest Service state vehicle will be provided for duties as needed. Operate power tools, machinery, and vehicles safely and responsibly. Exceptional relationship building, interpersonal, verbal/written communication, and organizational skills. Detail oriented with an ability to work independently and within a team is expected for collaboration with other staff to support operational needs and special projects. Physical ability to lift, bend, and work in varied environments. Respond promptly to maintenance requests and prioritize tasks efficiently. Ability to operate diagnostic equipment and problem-solve effectively. General knowledge of building repair techniques, mechanical systems, and preventive maintenance procedures. Follow all applicable safety regulations and operational guidelines. Knowledge of Forestry, Natural Resources, and Nursery Work is a plus.
 

Work Environment
• NJ Forest Service Nursery
• Forest Resource Education Center
• Municipal and County Properties
• State Lands
• Private Property
• Forested Land
 

If you are interested in this position, please send a cover letter (including availability) and resume to:
 

Joseph C. Bennett
Regional Forester
Joseph.bennett@dep.nj.gov
Nursery/Forest Resource Education Center