Forest Ecology Research in the Pacific Northwest - Summer 2015
Description: A crew lead and two crew positions are available this summer to
collect data for a study of forest dynamics in the Cascade Mountains of Oregon
and Washington. The project is part of the Long-Term Ecological Research
(LTER) Program at the HJ Andrews Experimental Forest in Oregon. Successful
candidates will be responsible for learning and applying the research protocol;
locating study sites using topographic maps and GPS; identifying woody plants
to species; measuring tree diameters and heights; measuring and mapping tree
regeneration; documenting conditions and causes of tree mortality; digging soil
pits; legibly recording data and organizing data sheets; and assisting with
day-to-day logistics. Ideal candidates will have coursework and/or experience
in one or more of the following areas: forest inventory, field ecology, or
plant identification. Crew members must be capable of working long hours under
strenuous field conditions (steep slopes, dense vegetation, variable weather),
and working and living in a team environment. Crews will be based at the HJ
Andrews Experimental Forest where housing will be provided. Some camping will
also be necessary due to the remoteness of some study site locations elsewhere
in Oregon and Washington. Positions will last 12-14 weeks starting in
mid-June. Applicants with previous experience may perform lead work.
Minimum qualifications:
- Two years of college-level courses in a relevant discipline (forestry,
botany, natural resources or environmental science) or an equivalent
combination of training and experience.
- Skilled in identifying herbaceous and woody plant species.
- Ability to work long hours in rugged terrain.
- Ability to work in a team environment.
- Organized and self-motivated; attentive to detail; legible handwriting.
Preferred qualifications:
- Experience with forest inventory measurements and vegetation sampling.
- Familiarity with flora of the Cascade Mountains and experience using
taxonomic keys.
- Knowledge of and experience in identifying tree mortality agents (diseases,
insects, wind, etc.).
- Skilled in off-trail navigation (map reading, compass orienteering, use of
GPS).
- Ability to work independently and reliably.
- A demonstrable commitment to promoting and enhancing diversity.
Salary: $14-$15/hour, depending on qualifications and experience
Duration: 12-14 weeks, starting in mid-June (crew leader may begin
earlier)
Application closing date: February 22, 2015
On-line application instructions:
1. Application procedure depends on student status. You are considered a
student if you are enrolled for at least 6 credits in spring and intending to
take at least 6 credits in the fall.
2. Copy and paste the appropriate url into your browser:
Students: jobs.oregonstate.edu/applicants/Central?quickFind=65805 If
url does not work, search for posting #0013886.
Non-students: jobs.oregonstate.edu/applicants/Central?quickFind=65774
If url does not work, search for posting #0013856.
3. To apply, click on "APPLY FOR THIS POSTING"
For more information, please contact: Rob Pabst, Department of Forest
Ecosystems & Society, Oregon State University (rob.pa...@oregonstate.edu)
