Wildfire Field and Laboratory Technician

Position Description:

The primary goal of this project is to evaluate the links between wildfire behavior and soil chemistry and the soil microbiome that influence post-fire biogeochemistry, water quality and ecosystem recovery. The candidate will assist US Forest Service and Colorado State University researchers to conduct a variety of field and laboratory-based experiments as part of a recently funded USDA project.

This is a full-time, research technician position based in Fort Collins, Colorado starting between March or May 2022 and continuing through October 2022. Work will require daily travel to field sites, with the potential for overnight camping.  The individual will be contracted through the US Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station.  

Primary Duties:

Collecting, preparing and analyzing soil, vegetation and water samples in burned forests

Installing, conducting and analyzing wildfire-pyrocosm experiments and laboratory assays

Requirements:

• Enrollment/completion of BSc or MSc degree in soils, microbiology, chemistry, hydrology, ecosystem ecology, forestry or related field.
• Experience working with field or laboratory-based research
• Ability to prepare detailed, accurate and legible field notes and labels
• Familiarity with Campbell data loggers, handheld GPS units and mapping software
• Punctuality and dependability; Excellent communication skills
• Experience in hiking, backcountry orienteering, travel and first aid
• Valid driver’s license. Experience operating and recovering 4-wheel drive vehicles is preferred
• Work requires strenuous physical exertion, such as hiking with heavy field gear over steep forested terrain. Work is often done in remote, isolated areas and in inclement (rainy, cold, and hot) weather conditions.  Individuals will practice safe work guidelines according to the USFS Covid-19 policy which are consistent with or exceed CDC and CSU policies.
• Register through USDA’s SAMs contracting program: https://sam.gov/content/home

This requires obtaining a DUNs number and submitting income tax as an independent contractor.

Salary:                  $18-20 / hr depending on experience

Duty Station:     US Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station, Fort Collins, CO

Information and Contact:

Send the following to:    Dr. Chuck Rhoades, charles.c.rhoades@usda.gov

1. Resume/CV
2. Cover Letter outlining relevant experience and interests
3. College transcripts (official or unofficial)