Forest Management Foreman (Biochar Team)
Flora Conservation Department
Job Summary
We are looking for a motivated, technically-minded graduate with a passion for working outdoors to join our Biochar Team as a Forest Management Foreman. This role combines hands-on fieldwork with ecological data analysis, supporting projects that involve tree surveys, LiDAR scanning and biodiversity monitoring. The Forest Management Foreman will work closely with the Arborist of the Biochar Team to prepare tender documents for tree management operations in order to improve tree health, enrich the ecological diversity of KFBG’s secondary forests, and optimise the sustainability of our wood recycling programme.
S/he should be physically fit and able to work outdoors for extended periods year-round, including on steep slopes at KFBG’s Forest Restoration Site and around the Biochar Facility and other backyard areas. Some of this may require rope access skills, following on-the-job training if necessary. Strong interpersonal skills are essential to facilitate cohesive team performance. The Foreman will have a passion for native woodland management and recognise the potential of nature-based solutions.
Major responsibilities
- Forest restoration fieldwork:
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- Conduct forest restoration tasks including but not limited to seed collection, weeding and tree planting; and
- Collect ecological data, record observations, ensure accurate documentation of forest conditions; and
- Conduct tree/vegetation surveys and operate LiDAR equipment to capture high-resolution forest structure data.
- Wood recycling programme:
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- Assist the Special Machinery Operator in operating and maintaining the Biochar Machine; and
- Operate horticultural and arboricultural equipment such as hand saw, pole saw, secateur, and so on (for all of which on-job training can be provided).
- Equipment management:
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- Arrange, maintain and calibrate field tools and LiDAR devices; ensure readiness for field operations; and
- Provide regular cleaning and maintenance of the horticultural and arboricultural equipment.
- Coordination & communication:
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- Work with staff from different departments, contractors and local suppliers to facilitate project activities; and
- Supervise contractors to perform their duties to the stipulated standard.
- Support the Biochar Team’s Arborist:
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- Assist the supervising Arborist in preparing tender documents for tree pruning and removal, weeding and invasive species management, and wood debris handling jobs, ensuring compliance with safety and environmental standards.
- Other:
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- Participate in activities arranged by KFBG with the intention of developing organisational culture; and
- Help tidy up the KFBG site after typhoons, heavy rainfall and other extreme weather events; and
- Serve as a standby driver for Flora Conservation Department (if in possession of suitable driver’s license); and
- Perform other duties as requested by management.
Requirements
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- With a Bachelor’s degree in forestry, ecology, environmental science, landscape management or a related field.
- Working experience in tree/landscape management preferred.
- Working experience in supervising tree/landscape contractor preferred.
- Experience in field surveys (including knowledge of techniques for plant ecology or tree management) would be an advantage.
- Passionate about forest ecology, native biodiversity and sustainable forest management.
- Strong command of spoken and written Chinese and English.
- Analytical mindset with attention to detail.
- Physically fit for regular demanding outdoor tasks.
- Rope access skills for safe work on steep slopes preferred.
- Valid Hong Kong driving license (class 1 and 2) preferred.
Application Method
Interested parties, please send your CV with current / last salary, expected salary and availability to the People & Culture Department, Kadoorie Farm & Botanic Garden Corporation, Lam Kam Road, Tai Po, New Territories, Hong Kong or via email at pnc@kfbg.org