Tree Planting & Landowner Engagement Lead (Contract)

Tree Planting & Landowner Engagement Lead (Contract)About SilvaBioSilvaBio is restoring America’s forests by developing and distributing disease-tolerant hardwood seedlings at scale, starting with the iconic American chestnut, ash, and elm.Engagement OverviewSilvaBio is seeking an experienced forestry or horticulture professional to serve as an independent field lead supporting landowner engagement and tree planting efforts. This is a contracted, project-based leadership role focused on planning, coordination, and on-the-ground execution of orchard, greenhouse, and field planting activities. This role is well-suited for a semi-retired orchard, nursery, or forestry professional.The engagement is well suited to someone who brings deep practical knowledge of trees and land management, enjoys working directly with private landowners, and values autonomy and mission-driven work. The Field Lead will act as a trusted representative of SilvaBio in the field and help advance our Founder’s Circle and reforestation partnerships.This is a remote position. However, preference will be given to candidates located within a three-hour drive of McGraw, New York (Cortland County area), to facilitate potential site visits, equipment coordination, or regional project needs.Scope of WorkServe as SilvaBio’s primary field-based point of contact for landowners and planting partnersConduct site visits, property assessments, soil sampling, and planting feasibility evaluationsCollaborate with SilvaBio leadership to develop planting plans and establish planting agreementsCoordinate a small team and to lead on-site tree installation and early establishmentSupport relationship-building with landowners and represent SilvaBio at select regional meetings and eventsExperience & ProfileBackground in forestry, arboriculture, horticulture, or land managementPrior experience working directly with landowners, customers, or community partnersComfortable working independently and coordinating field activities across multiple sitesStrong interpersonal communication and judgment in field-based decision-makingWillingness to travel regionally and spend time outdoorsExperience with outreach, sales, or partnership development is a plus