Forest Monitoring Seasonal Technician

The Pennsylvania State University Department of Ecosystem Science and Management is hiring seasonal technicians to collect forest monitoring data in national parks in Pennsylvania and West Virginia. This work is part of a long-term forest health monitoring program that provides park staff with crucial information on the condition of the parks’ vegetation and how this condition is changing over time.

Demonstrated experience in forest ecology, meticulous data collection skills, strong work ethic, and positive attitude are required.  Applicants should enjoy working outdoors in a variety of conditions and be able to identify common trees and shrubs of Pennsylvania and West Virginia. Applicants must be able to follow complex detailed field protocols and work as a member of a team. Crew members will be expected to carefully follow required safety precautions. The ability to hike long distances carrying a 25+ pound backpack and work long hours in adverse conditions (e.g. steep terrain, hot/humid weather, stinging/biting insects, irritating plants) and in remote field sites is a must.  Applicants should be able to navigate in the woods by compass and using GPS. Familiarity with Access databases is preferred.

The positions will begin in May 2021 and continue for 12 – 18 weeks with compensation of $15-17 per hour depending on experience. 

To apply, please compile: 1) a brief cover letter, 2) a resume, and 3) contact information for three references into a single PDF document with your last name at the beginning of the file name. Email your application to Stephanie Perles [sjp16 at psu dot edu] by February 19, 2021.