Forestry Assistant (Grants Focus)

NJ Department of Environmental Protection

New Jersey State Forest Service (NJFS)

Location: Various

Work Schedule: 15+/- hours/week, weekdays, 2- 3 days a week (Primarily April-July & Oct.-Jan.)

Salary: $17.50 - $30.00/hr (commensurate with experience)

Assist with the Forest Health, Climate & Carbon Program such as:

Prepares grant proposals by conducting research, gathering internal and external data to support grant requests, writing drafts, and obtaining approvals. Seek grant opportunities by identifying funding needs and prospects from various funding sources. Reviews and evaluates grant or contract applications for conformance to established criteria and compliance with provisions of laws and regulations; ensures ongoing compliance with regulations and legal use of funds; confers with awarding agencies, grantees, contractors, and subgrantees on administrative procedures and bills; maintains tracking system of program expenditures and balances; researches, collects and analyzes data to identify trends and prepare or adjust reports; recommend payment or non-payment. Manage successful grants to completion and meet timelines including modifications, narratives, and supporting documentation. This involves working closely with other members of the NJ Forest Service and its partners. Communicates the proposal strategy and progress to other organizational stakeholders and obtains input and signoff on content from other departments as needed. Create budgets, plan implementation, and track funding expenditures. Complete monthly and annual reports. Writes grants for funding of programs statewide and to stimulate public interest and involvement in sustaining a healthy natural environment. This can be an entry level position and NJFS is willing to provide some training.

Applicants must possess a valid driver’s license. Exceptional relationship building, interpersonal, verbal/written communication, and organizational skills a must. Previous experience as a grants writer or education in grant writing preferred. Presentation and public speaking skills a plus. Knowledge of Forestry and Natural Resources a plus. Detail oriented with an ability to work independently and within a team.