Establishment Forester

Introduction

Kaingaroa Tipu is looking for an experienced and practical Establishment Forester to plan, lead and support our establishment operations. This is a hands-on role combining field leadership, contractor management, operational planning and commercial awareness to deliver safe, efficient and high-quality land preparation programmes.

You will work closely with contractors, frontline leaders and teams across the business, using sound judgement, quality data and regular field engagement to strengthen performance and support the long-term health of the forest estate.

What you will be doing

• Plan, schedule and monitor establishment and land preparation operations.
• Lead field safety routines, site visits, risk assessments, audits and critical control verifications.
• Review incidents, assess risk and lead the initial investigation response.
• Build constructive relationships with contractors and frontline workers, setting clear expectations for safety, quality, productivity and sustainability.
• Coach and support contractor capability, including performance reviews, feedback and improvement actions.
• Monitor budgets, costs, contract performance, rates and monthly invoice processing.
• Support environmental compliance, stakeholder engagement and community relationships.
• Use operational and safety data to identify risks, remove barriers and drive continuous improvement.

What you will bring

• Preferably three years’ experience in forestry or comparable operational leadership.
• Experience managing contracts, contractors and frontline workers.
• A strong understanding of New Zealand health and safety legislation and practical risk management.
• Knowledge of environmental compliance and establishment operations, including aerial operations.
• Strong digital literacy, with the ability to process, interpret and use data to make informed decisions.
• Clear communication, problem-solving and report-writing skills.
• The ability to manage competing priorities, remain effective under pressure and make sound, timely decisions.

Why join Kaingaroa Tipu?

This is an opportunity to take ownership of important establishment programmes and influence safety, quality and operational performance across a significant forestry environment. You will join a collaborative team that values care, collaboration and growth, with the scope to build strong partnerships and contribute to meaningful improvements.

If you are a capable forestry professional who enjoys being visible in the field, working alongside contractors and turning plans into safe, high-quality results, we would like to hear from you.