Forestry & Landscape Technician

The Ground at Tabula Rasa Farms is seeking a self-motivated, hands-on Forestry & Landscape Technician to lead the practical care and restoration of our natural landscape using regenerative and agroecological practices. This position is ideal for someone who thrives outdoors, enjoys working independently, and brings both technical skill and ecological curiosity to their work.

In addition to managing wooded and landscaped areas of the farm campus, this steward will maintain water retention infrastructure, care for our extensive trail system, and occasionally guide visitors and guests through our natural places—sharing how our land practices support community and environmental health. This position reports jointly to the co-founder and Director of Operations.

Who You Are

• Independent and dependable, with the ability to work solo in natural settings
• Detail-oriented and energized by physical, purposeful labor
• Passionate about restoring natural systems and building resilient landscapes
• Skilled in observing and interpreting ecological patterns and plant communities
• Comfortable leading and educating

Key Responsibilities

• Forest & Landscape Management (35%)
  • Operate chainsaws, trimmers, and other equipment to manage forests, trails, and campus landscapes
  • Clear brush, manage invasive species, and steward healthy native plant communities
  • Maintain and improve trail systems for both staff use and public enjoyment
  • Execute reforestation and habitat restoration projects using best practices
  • Contribute to the campus’ landscape aesthetics while improving soil health and biodiversity
• Water Retention & Infrastructure Maintenance (30%)
  • Monitor and maintain ponds, swales, drainage systems, and erosion control measures
  • Repair and upkeep infrastructure like fencing, pathways, and land-based features
  • Adapt water management systems to seasonal needs and long-term ecological goals
• Regenerative Land Stewardship (30%)
  • Implement practices such as composting, mulching, and cover cropping
  • Monitor and support soil-building and nutrient cycling systems
  • Apply agroforestry and permaculture principles across appropriate zones
  • Assist in establishing demonstration plots that highlight these practices
• Public Engagement & Education (5%)
  • Occasionally lead tours or small groups through the property, highlighting ecological practices
  • Engage with visitors and community members to share knowledge and foster connection with the land
  • Support farm events that center around environmental stewardship and conservation

Team Collaboration

Ensure land care is in alignment with the founders’ vision and values, while collaborating closely with the Director of Operations, farm managers, chefs, and event staff to support broader operational goals. Demonstrate leadership in small group settings, training volunteers, seasonal workers, or interns. Document work and ecological observations in land stewardship records or maps.

Requirements

• Required Qualifications
  • 3–5 years of experience in forestry, estate landscaping, ecological restoration, or land management
  • Proficiency with chainsaws, power tools, and land management equipment, with strong safety awareness
  • Experience coordinating with contractors or vendors, with an ability to assess quality of work and maintain standards of care
  • Experience with water management systems (swales, ponds, drainage)
  • Familiarity with native and invasive plant species of the Pacific Northwest
  • Physical ability to work outdoors in varied terrain and weather conditions
  • Strong communication skills and comfort interacting with the public or leading small groups
• Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience in chainsaw operation, ecological restoration, or water management
  • Experience managing and maintaining trail systems
  • Background in environmental education or community outreach
  • Knowledge of regenerative agriculture, permaculture, or agroecology principles

Compensation & Benefits

Annual salary: £55,000–£70,000 depending on experience and qualifications. Benefits include health, vision, dental, life insurance, 401(k), PTO, as well as professional development opportunities. Housing (if available) or relocation assistance may be available for the right candidate.

About The Ground

The Ground, based in the beautiful Willamette Valley, is a business that connects farm, food, and people through hospitality. With an integrated approach to hospitality, The Ground is a collection of experiences and destinations rooted in the philosophy of conscious, loving hospitality in service to all species. It is a philosophy of belonging that comes to life through our three core businesses: Hospitality, Farming, and Connections.

The Ground is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. If you’re interested in this role, but your experience doesn’t align perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we still encourage you to apply. You may just be the right candidate for this or other roles at The Ground.