Forestry Technician (Hourly)

The Chronicle Of Higher Education, Inc.; Richmond (VA); On-site; USD 21,593 - 30,754; Full time

Job summary

The Chronicle Of Higher Education, Inc. is seeking paid research technicians for the summer 2026 field season at the Gough Forest Ecology Lab, Virginia Commonwealth University. Technicians will engage in vital research supported by the National Science Foundation and Department of Energy at the University of Michigan Biological Station.

Responsibilities include conducting field research on forest growth and carbon cycling. A strong academic background in ecology or related fields, along with teamwork skills, is essential. Onsite housing and meals will be provided for successful candidates.

Qualifications

• Successful completion of coursework in ecology, forestry, environmental studies or related fields.
• Team-oriented field research experience required.
• The capacity to live on‑site in Michigan.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to research on disturbance effects on forest growth and carbon cycling.
• Participate in group field research activities and lab gatherings.

Skills

Team-oriented field research experience

Quantitative and science communication skills

Education

Coursework in ecology, forestry, environmental studies

Job description

Unit:

College of Humanities and Sciences

Department:

School of Life Sciences and Sustainability

Duties & Responsibilities:

The Gough Forest Ecology Lab (goughlab.com) at Virginia Commonwealth University seeks paid research technicians for the summer 2026 field season. Technicians will contribute to National Science Foundation and Department of Energy supported research at the University of Michigan Biological Station (UMBS) aimed at advancing understanding of disturbance effects on forest growth and carbon cycling.

Summer residence at the Field Station in Pellston, Michigan is required (https://lsa.umich.edu/umbs).

Onsite housing and meals will be provided. Our lab team and the UMBS community are highly collaborative, with all members expected to enthusiastically participate in group field research activities and lab gatherings. Applicants should submit a cover letter describing how this position is aligned with their interests, a curriculum vita with GPA, and a list of 3 references by March 1.

Qualifications:

Minimum Qualifications

• Successful completion of coursework in ecology, forestry, environmental studies or related fields
• Team-oriented field research experience
• The capacity to live on‑site in Michigan

Preferred Qualifications

• Familiarity with basic forest mensuration
• Quantitative and science communication skills
• Prior field research experience

Salary Range:

$19 per hour

FLSA Exemption Status:

Non‑Exempt

Flexible Work Arrangement:

Fully Onsite