Part-Time Field Technologists for Crop-Tree and Gap-Dynamics in Mixed-Oak Forests in Pennsylvan[...]

The Pennsylvania State University; State College (Centre County); On-site; USD 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Housing provided for employees during work periods

Transportation to field sites included

Job summary

The Pennsylvania State University seeks up to eight field technologists to assist in a research project evaluating crop tree and vegetation dynamics in north‑central and north‑western Pennsylvania. The role requires conducting fieldwork mostly outdoors, utilizing surveying tools and GPS, while also necessitating proficiency in identifying various plant species.

Ideal candidates will have strong forest measurement skills and be pursuing or have completed a degree in forestry or a related field. Housing and transportation will be provided during the work periods.

Qualifications

• Pursuing or completed degree in relevant fields is preferred.
• Strong identification skills for flora and measurement techniques.
• Ability to work outdoors and traverse rugged terrain.

Responsibilities

• Conduct field work using surveying techniques and GPS.
• Identify, measure, and record ground flora variables.
• Manage organization of field data records.

Skills

Forest measurement skills

Plant/tree identification skills

Strong work ethic

Education

Degree in forestry, wildlife, natural resources, or closely related field

Tools

GPS

Digital camera

Job description

Job Description

The Department of Ecosystem Science and Management at Penn State University is seeking up to eight field technologists to assist in a joint research project with the Pennsylvania Game Commission focused on quantifying crop tree and vegetation dynamics in artificially created gaps in mixed‑oak stands throughout north‑central and north‑western Pennsylvania. The technologists operate in multi‑person crews to carefully measure forest stand attributes, including ground vegetation.

This project’s overall goal is to better understand wildlife response to novel applications of crop‑tree treatments in young forested stands. Study sites are located on State Game Lands throughout the northwest and north‑central regions of Pennsylvania. Work will involve daily travel to field sites and some overnight travel. Housing will be provided away from State College (July, August) and transportation to all field sites will be provided.

Job Duties

• Use basic surveying techniques, aerial photographs, topographic and timber stand maps, compass, and GPS as necessary to conduct field work.
• Identify, measure and record ground flora vegetation variables, including species, percent cover, and/or stem count.
• Accurately identify tree, shrub, vine, grass, and herbaceous plant species.
• Measure crown dimensions of crop‑trees and size of gap openings in experimental treatments.
• Photograph plot with a digital camera; download and label photos.
• Measure condition, diameter, and dimensions of downed woody debris.
• Transfer all data according to documented procedures.
• Collect and compile GPS data.
• Manage organization of hard and digital copies of field data records.
• Communicate with other field, research, and supervisory staff.

Job Requirements

• Work primarily outdoors, often traversing steep, rugged, uneven terrain in all weather conditions.
• Hold a valid driver’s license and be able to operate a motor vehicle as part of the job duties.
• Preferred: completion or pursuit of a degree in forestry, wildlife, natural resources, environmental sciences, biology, or a closely related field.
• Strong work ethic, forest measurement skills, and plant/tree identification skills.

Background Checks/Clearances

Employment with the University requires successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. A motor vehicle records check will also be required.

EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814‑865‑1473.