Operations Forester
Located in the North Thompson Valley, Simpcw Resources Group (SRG) is a fully-owned Indigenous business dedicated to creating sustainable economic opportunities within Simpcw'ulécw (Simpcw Territory). Guided by respect for the land, environment, and Simpcw culture, we deliver services across multiple sectors while supporting long-term community growth, economic development, and environmental stewardship. Our Forestry Division plays a key role in this mission through responsible forest management, timber harvesting, road construction, and fibre development activities throughout the region.
Simpcw Resources LLP is seeking an experienced Operations Forester to join our Forestry Division, based out of our Clearwater BC office. Reporting to the Forestry Manager, the Forester is responsible for planning, coordinating, and overseeing operational forestry activities related to timber harvesting, road construction and maintenance, fibre development, permitting, and contractor management. Working closely with internal staff, contractors, Indigenous partners, tenure holders, and regulatory agencies, the successful candidate will ensure forestry operations are delivered safely, efficiently, and in accordance with regulatory requirements, company objectives, and sustainable forest management principles.
This is an excellent opportunity for a motivated forestry professional who enjoys balancing field leadership with operational planning while contributing to the continued growth and success of SRG's Forestry Division.
Our ideal candidate has the following qualifications:
- Diploma or Degree in Forestry, Forest Engineering, Natural Resource Management, or a related discipline.
- Minimum 5 years of operational forestry experience, including harvesting supervision, road construction, road maintenance, and timber development.
- Registered, or eligible for registration, with the Association of BC Forest Professionals (RPF or RFT) or Engineers and Geoscientists BC (P.Eng.).
- Strong knowledge of BC forestry legislation, permitting processes, operational planning, and environmental compliance requirements.
- Experience developing and administering Cutting Permits, Road Permits, site plans, and related operational documentation.
- Experience managing forestry contractors and multiple concurrent field operations.
- Sound understanding of forest road engineering principles, maintenance requirements, and hauling logistics.
- Demonstrated ability to interpret maps, engineering drawings, and operational plans.
- Proficiency with GIS applications, mapping software, Microsoft Office Suite, and digital reporting tools.
- Strong budgeting, planning, organizational, and project management skills.
- Strong communication, leadership, and relationship-building abilities.
- Valid Class 5 Driver's Licence with a clean drivers abstract.
- Experience working with First Nations communities and incorporating cultural values into forestry practices is considered an asset.
- Knowledge of the Simpcw First Nation community and Simpcw Territory is considered an asset.
In this role you will:
- Plan, coordinate, and oversee operational forestry activities including harvesting, road construction, road maintenance, hauling, and fibre recovery initiatives.
- Develop and administer Cutting Permit and Road Permit applications, ensuring compliance with legislation, tenure requirements, Forest Stewardship Plans, and company objectives.
- Coordinate timber harvesting activities to meet production targets while maintaining environmental and safety standards.
- Plan, supervise, and coordinate forest road construction, maintenance, deactivation, rehabilitation, bridge installations, and stream crossing projects.
- Develop annual and seasonal road maintenance programs, including grading, drainage management, culvert maintenance, dust control, snow removal, and surface repairs.
- Coordinate contractors, equipment, and resources to support safe, efficient, and cost-effective forestry operations.
- Conduct regular field inspections to ensure compliance with operational plans, permit requirements, environmental commitments, and safety standards.
- Monitor harvesting performance, road construction progress, fibre utilization, production volumes, and contractor effectiveness.
- Manage contractor performance, review completed work, monitor costs, and approve invoices.
- Work closely with planning, engineering, GIS, silviculture, and forestry professionals to support operational execution and long-term forest management objectives.
- Collaborate with Indigenous Nations, government agencies, tenure holders, and stakeholders to support project planning and delivery.
- Monitor operational budgets, schedules, and key performance indicators, identifying opportunities for continuous improvement and operational excellence.
- Maintain accurate operational records and prepare reports related to production, permitting, compliance, road activities, contractor performance, and project status.
- Support responsible fibre stewardship by maximizing fibre utilization and promoting sustainable resource management practices.
- Identify opportunities to improve efficiencies, reduce waste, and contribute to local value creation within the forestry sector.
- Promote a strong culture of safety through field inspections, coaching, incident investigations, safety meetings, and compliance with WorkSafeBC requirements.
- Provide technical guidance and professional judgment to support sustainable forest management and the successful delivery of annual operating plans.
- Foster positive working relationships with contractors, staff, community members, and external stakeholders.
What’s in it for you?
- Competitive total compensation: You’ll earn a competitive salary based on your experience and expertise. The expected base salary range for this position is $90,000 - $115,000 per year.
- Supportive, team-first culture: Join a positive, collaborative team where your contributions are valued and your voice is heard.
- Comprehensive benefits: Extended Health & Dental coverage to support your well-being.
- Retirement savings support: Employer-matched Registered Pension Plan (RPP) program to help you plan for the future.
- Cell phone reimbursement: Receive $20/pay period to stay connected.
- Work-life balance in a great location: Based in our Clearwater, BC office, enjoy the benefits of small-town living with access to outdoor recreation and a strong community.
- Career growth & development: We invest in your future with on-the-job learning, formal training opportunities, and reimbursement for relevant tuition and professional memberships.
- A workplace where you belong: Be part of a positive, innovative, and inclusive environment where you can grow your career and make an impact.
Build your future with Simpcw Resources Group
If you’re looking to grow your career in a sustainable, future-focused industry, there’s no better place than Simpcw Resources Group.
Rooted in Simpcw values, we are committed to responsible land stewardship, economic development, and creating opportunities that benefit future generations. Here, your work has purpose, impact, and connection to the North Thompson community.
You will be a part of a team that is collaborative, innovative, and proud of the work we do across Simpcw'ulécw (Simpcw Territory).
We’re growing - and we want you to grow with us, apply today.
Application Process
The Company is committed to supporting employment opportunities for Simpcw First Nation members. Every effort will be made to notify and encourage applications from qualified Simpcw First Nation members prior to or concurrent with broader recruitment efforts. Applications from Simpcw First Nation members will be strongly considered and evaluated based on the qualifications, skills, experience, and operational requirements of the position.
Interested applicants are encouraged to apply online via
Careers Opportunities at Simpcw Resources Group » Join Our Team.
About Simpcw'ulécw (Simpcw Territory) & the North Thompson Valley
Located along the North Thompson River, Barriere and the surrounding region offer a lifestyle that’s hard to find anywhere else, where natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and community connection come together.
Here, you can enjoy:
- Direct access to lakes, rivers, and backcountry wilderness
- Year-round recreation like hiking, fishing, snowmobiling, and skiing
- A welcoming, close-knit community with local events, markets, and traditions
- A more relaxed pace of life with space to breathe and room to grow
And when you need it, Kamloops is just 1 hour and 30 minutes away, offering expanded amenities, healthcare, and entertainment, giving you the best of both small-town living and city access.
Curious what life is like here? Watch these short videos to experience Barriere and the North Thompson Valley: Barriere | Lower North Thompson Valley Wells Gray Provincial Park North Thompson Fall Fair & Rodeo Visit Kamloops Tourism to learn about the community and find out why life is better here.
Additional Information
Certain client worksites may require pre-site-access drug and/or alcohol testing as a condition of access to the worksite. Where such testing is required, the Employer may schedule and coordinate the testing process, and you will be required to comply with all applicable site-access requirements before attending the worksite.
Thank you for your interest in Simpcw Resources Group. Only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted. Preference may be given to qualified applicants of Indigenous ancestry, in accordance with applicable employment equity legislation.
