Inventory and Earth Observation Manager

Role Objective 

To develop and implement all aspects of Coillte Forest’s multi-source inventory, with particular focus on Earth Observation (EO) as a source of information. To develop, test, implement and maintain the most appropriate systems, standards and procedures to ensure ongoing high quality remotely sensed forest inventory data is accurate, timely and quality assured.

Responsibilities 

Planning & Support

• Maintain and evolve a framework for multi-source Forest Inventory Systems to support business needs underpinned by EO data.

• Utilise EO data to assist in maintaining Coillte’s inventory database and monitoring critical crop developments (encroachment, nutrient deficiency, etc.).

• Plan, procure and implement LiDAR and other EO data acquisition and associated field data requirements cost effectively. * Pre-process and analyse EO data (LiDAR, satellite imagery, drone data) using machine learning and AI techniques.

• Ensure Coillte’s sub-compartment database is maintained and updated using all available data. * Develop image segmentation and modelling techniques for LiDAR-based forest parameter estimation, using appropriate programming languages.

• Provide technical and geospatial support to the wider Forest Planning Team (geospatial analysis, process automation and scripting)

• Contribute to the development of the use of drones for forest planning and management.

 People & Culture 

• Execute regular open and honest discussions on performance with EO Analysts ensuring ongoing awareness and ownership of objectives and performance.

• Develop a strong culture of operational excellence and continuous improvement. * Simplify business processes to reduce complexity to our customers and allow our people to do their best work.

• Develop strong collaborations within the Resource team and with BAU Resource Managers to ensure inventory supports strategic and tactical planning.

• Act as a visible role model for the Group’s values.

External Focus

• Develop and maintain a network of technical experts in the field of EO.

• Build strong relationships with key agencies (OSI, Forest Service, GSI, etc.).

• Support forest planning-related regulatory, consultation and certification processes to ensure forest activities are planned in compliance with legal and certification requirements.

Behavioural Competencies 

• Resilience: Proven ability and track record in working in a fast paced and dynamic work environment.

• Problem-Solving: Proactive in identifying emerging issues and addressing them promptly by working on own initiative with proven capability and effectiveness in problem solving.

• Analytical: Exceptional analytical and programming skills. * Discretion: Personal credibility and a proven ability to maintain discretion and confidentiality.

• Organised: Ability to achieve deadlines when required and to effectively prioritise between competing demands with exceptional organisation skills.

• Collaboration: Excellent interpersonal skills to build effective relationships with colleagues, stakeholders and peers.

• Report Writing: Strong report writing skills, and an ability to present information clearly and concisely.

• Time Management: Efficient management of time, resources and procurement.

Desired Professional Competencies 

• Education and Experience: Relevant qualification in Forestry or related discipline ideally to HETAC Level 8 with a tertiary qualification in Geospatial engineering or similar discipline (e.g. GIS, spatial modelling, image processing)

• Technical Experience: Advanced programming experience in either R and/or Python applied to geospatial data with experience with machine learning and/or AI frameworks. Experience with GNU/Linux and open-source geospatial applications highly desirable.

• Forestry: In-depth forestry knowledge, especially with regard to inventory, mensuration and resource planning.

• Commercial Acumen: Can focus on financial and commercial implications of their own activities through minimising costs, maximising opportunities and meetings targets.

• Regulatory Compliance: Knowledge and experience to promote a safe-working environment and ensure compliance with environmental, regulatory and silvicultural standards