Urban Forestry Extension & Research Lead

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign; Urbana (IL); On-site; USD 72,000 - 76,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign seeks a Forestry Extension and Research Specialist to lead urban and community forestry programming, teach dendrology to undergraduates, and conduct applied research guiding Illinois forestry needs. The role includes outreach, program development, and collaboration with state and national forestry partners.

The position involves developing Extension Forestry materials, coordinating events, supervising interns, and teaching courses as needed.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in forest science or related field with urban/community forestry expertise.
• Ph.D. in forest science or related field preferred; independence and grant-writing experience desirable.
• Experience with teaching, outreach, and community engagement in forestry projects.
• Illinois pesticide applicator license or ability to obtain soon after hire; advanced chainsaw training and certified arborist credentials are valued.
• Competency with GIS, remote sensing, and UAV technologies for forestry work.

Responsibilities

• Provide leadership, outreach, technical guidance, and educational programming in urban and community forestry.
• Lead undergraduate instruction in dendrology and potentially other courses.
• Conduct applied research that informs forestry needs in Illinois.
• Develop and lead Extension programs, conferences, trainings, and field days; publish bulletins and videos.

Skills

Urban forestry expertise

Public presentations

Educational materials

Outreach and community engagement

Education

Master's degree in forest science or closely aligned field

Ph.D. in forest science (preferred)

Job description

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign seeks a Forestry Extension and Research Specialist to lead urban and community forestry programming, teach dendrology to undergraduates, and conduct applied research guiding Illinois forestry needs. The role includes outreach, program development, and collaboration with state and national forestry partners.

The position involves developing Extension Forestry materials, coordinating events, supervising interns, and teaching courses as needed.