Summer Field Technician (Forest Ecology) – Montana

The University of Montana’s Forest Ecology lab (http://www.cfc.umt.edu/forestecology) seeks field research assistants to join a 2-4 person crew for the summer of 2015 in western Montana. Work will be conducted in multiple National Forests (Idaho Panhandle, Kootenai, Flathead, and Lolo).  The research project focuses on forest stand development in second growth western larch-mixed conifer forests and snowshoe hares.

Work will include:

€       Installing and measuring vegetation plots
€       Sampling relative abundance of snowshoe hare
€       Learning about sampling techniques and the effects of forest management on forest stand  succession and wildlife habitat

Qualifications: Positions are best suited for individuals that have or are working toward a degree in forest or environmental sciences; are interested in forest and wildlife management, silviculture, or forest ecology; and have some previous experience sampling vegetation. Candidates must be  able to effectively work as a team, be detail oriented, and be able to solve problems with minimal supervision. Candidates must also be in good physical condition and able to work long  hours in adverse weather.  Other requirements include a valid drivers license with clean driving record and first aid training.  Extensive travel and camping in remote locations are required for this project.

Salary:  $8.50 to $13.50/hr depending on experience
€       Summer work study students are encouraged to apply

Duration and Schedule: Exact start and end dates are negotiable.  Positions can start as early as May and continue as late as October depending upon access and weather. Work schedule will  be flexible.

Application process: Applications received by Feb 28th will receive priority consideration but later applications will be considered until all positions are filled.  To apply, assemble the following into a single PDF:

1) One page cover letter describing your interests, qualifications, degree program, and relevant coursework;

2) Your dates of availability;

3) Resume or CV;

4) Contact information for two references with firsthand knowledge of your work experience (no need to send letters).

Email your application to david.wright@umontana.edu.  For more information please contact  David Wright via email.