BC Public Service - Internal Job Opportunities

LSO FORS 3 - Regional Forest Pathologist

Posted on September 18, 2026

Closes on October 12, 2026


Requisition Number: 125749

Job Type: Regular Full Time

Job Category: Scientific and Technical

Full/Part Time: Full Time

Classification: Licensed Sc Off Forester 3


Description

The Team

The Research & Stewardship team is an established group within one of Canada’s longest‑running forestry research programs, bringing together applied researchers across forestry and earth sciences—including pathology, climatology, forest entomology, ecology and silviculture, hydrology, soil science, geomorphology, and GIS. Although based in the Omineca region, the team supports projects throughout northern B.C. as well as in southern and coastal areas, contributing scientific expertise to a wide range of landscapes and management challenges. Team members collaborate closely with researchers across the province and provide operational support to regional and district staff, ensuring that emerging issues and on‑the‑ground needs are informed by high‑quality science. This is a collaborative, supportive group of professionals who value shared problem‑solving and meaningful contributions to resource stewardship. Their work provides foundational science that strengthens natural resource management across British Columbia.

The Role

This position serves as the regional expert in forest pathology and natural resource health, providing professional and scientific advice related to the detection, identification, assessment, and treatment of forest pathogens and abiotic disorders. The role leads assessments of current and emerging forest pathology issues, develops and implements applied research projects, oversees pathogen control initiatives, and delivers extension services to support operational decision‑making. As the lead position for forest pathology detection, management, and research in the Omineca Region, the work directly influences forest management responses and supports long‑term resource sustainability. Candidates will be inspired by the opportunity to guide management strategies for pressing and future forest health challenges while contributing to a vibrant, productive research program that spans the region and the province. Applicants may also wish to explore the Ministry’s 100 Years of Research: Ministry of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development for additional insight into the program’s legacy and impact.

Qualifications:
Education and Experience Requirements

  • Thesis-based M.Sc. or PhD with an emphasis on forest pathology, mycology, forest health or pest management; AND,
  • A minimum of (2) two years of directly related experience, or equivalent training and evidence of scholarly or career achievement in a related area such as forest health or forest pathology may be considered.
  • Experience in pathology including taxonomy, methods for detection and evaluation of pathogen occurrences and impacts, knowledge of host-pathogen relationships and population ecology.
  • Experience working with provincial and federal pest management legislation, integrated pest management and methods including natural, chemical and biological control methods.
  • Experience managing multiple projects, setting priorities, and working under pressure requiring adjustments to change.
  • A valid BC driver’s licence.

Professional Registration and Certification Requirements:

  • Registered, or immediately eligible for registration, as a Registered Professional Forester (RPF) in BC with Forest Professionals BC (FPBC) or as a Professional Agrologist (PAg) with the BC Institute of Agrologists. Note: “Immediately eligible for registration” means meeting all requirements for full professional registration and completing the process of obtaining full registration with the relevant BC professional association within six (6) months of employment.

Preference may be given to applicants with:

  • Experience planning and implementing research projects.

Provisos:

  • Must be willing and physically able to work outdoors in remote areas and in a variety of conditions.
  • Must be willing and able to fly in planes and helicopters.
  • Must hold or be willing to obtain Level 1 First Aid Certification.

For questions regarding this position, please contact John.Rex@gov.bc.ca.

About this Position:
There is currently one (1) permanent, full time position available in Prince George.
Flexible work options are available; this position may be able to work up to two (2) days at home per week subject to an approved Telework Agreement.
Employees of the BC Public Service must be located in BC at the time of employment.
An eligibility list may be established to fill future temporary and permanent vacancies in Prince George.
Applicants who do not fully meet the required qualifications may be considered for this position, but at a lower classification.
A Criminal Record Check (CRC) will be required.

Working for the BC Public Service:
The BC Public Service is committed to creating a diverse workplace to represent the population we serve and to better meet the needs of our citizens. Consider joining our team and being part of an innovative, inclusive and rewarding workplace. 

We are committed to ensuring that reasonable accommodations are available throughout the hiring process, including the assessment and selection stages. Please email the individual or contact listed on the posting if you require an accommodation to fully participate in the hiring process.

The Indigenous Applicant Advisory Service is available to Indigenous (First Nations [status or non-status], Inuit or Métis) applicants originating from the land now known as Canada, seeking work or already employed in the BC Public Service. Indigenous applicants can contact this service for personalized guidance on the BC Public Service hiring process including job applications and interviews.

How to Apply:
Your resume and/or cover letter must clearly show that you meet the education and experience requirements. Highlight the required qualifications and support them with specific examples, such as your responsibilities, projects you've worked on, or accomplishments. Find more information on the recruitment process, including helpful tips and videos about the application process, visit the Your Job Application page of MyHR. 

Professional Designation: YES - Please include your registration number in your application. You must be registered, or immediately eligible for registration, as a Registered Professional Forester (RPF) in BC with Forest Professionals BC (FPBC) or as a Professional Agrologist (PAg) with the BC Institute of Agrologists. Note: “Immediately eligible for registration” means meeting all requirements for full professional registration and completing the process of obtaining full registration with the relevant BC professional association within six (6) months of employment.

Cover Letter: NO - Please do not submit a cover letter as it will not be reviewed.

Resume: YES - Ensure your resume includes your educational accomplishments, employment history, including job titles, start and end dates (month and year) and your job related responsibilities for each job in your employment history, and any relevant information that relates to this position.

Questionnaire: YES - You will need to complete a basic questionnaire to demonstrate how you meet the job requirements.

Applicants who are selected to move forward in the hiring process may be assessed on their knowledge, skills, abilities, competencies and other position related requirements as outlined in the Job Profile at the bottom of the posting. Applications will be accepted until 11:00 pm Pacific Time on the closing date of the competition. If you are experiencing technical difficulty applying, visit the Technical Assistance page of MyHR.