Overview
Pringle Summer Field Technician Jobs in Corvallis, USA at Oregon State University
Position Summary
Part‑time Student Field Technician for the Forest Ecosystems & Society at Oregon State University.
Support the graduate research project assessing understory shrub responses to fuel treatments on the Deschutes National Forest, collecting data on species abundance, richness, height, cover, and other characteristics.
Field work includes surveying shrubs, stand characteristics, GPS mapping, traversing rugged terrain, long outdoor hours, and driving between sites.
Key Responsibilities
- 30% Performing field surveys of shrub physical characteristics and community composition; estimating shrub cover by species and measuring maximum and average shrub height within a circular plot.
- 30% Locating and determining suitable sampling locations; navigating to GPS coordinates with mapping software, assessing forest structure, and collecting high‑resolution GPS points using surveying equipment.
- 20% Conducting surveys of forest and site characteristics (slope, aspect, soil type, dominant tree species, canopy density).
- 20% Data recording using paper datasheets following established protocols.
- Field work requires driving between field site locations.
Qualifications
- Two years of college‑level coursework in forestry, natural resources, or a closely related field; OR equivalent training and experience.
- Good interpersonal skills, flexibility, adaptability, and clear, effective communication.
- Ability to work independently for long hours outdoors and with a crew in a professional, safe, and inclusive environment.
- Experience with fieldwork in steep, rugged, and/or uneven terrain; capacity to hike up to five miles per day with up to 25 lbs of equipment.
- Must be academically enrolled and meet the applicable minimal enrollment standards (see below).
- High School student:
Regularly enrolled in high school or a home‑schooling program - Undergraduate and post‑baccalaureate student: 6 credit hours per term
- Undergraduate international student: 12 credit hours per term*
- Graduate student: 5 credit hours per term
- Graduate international student: 9 credit hours per term*
- International students may be allowed to carry fewer hours than specified above and still be considered “full‑time” by USCIS. A reduced course load must be approved by the Office of International Services and provided to the Student Employment Center.
- High School student:
- Must possess a valid driver’s license; successfully complete a Motor Vehicle History Check; be position qualified and self‑report convictions under OSU standards.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience conducting understory vegetation, fuel, or forest inventory surveys.
- Current wilderness first aid qualifications (WFA, WFR).
- Experience working relatively independently or with a small crew in the field.
- Maintaining a positive attitude during repetitive, strenuous work.
Working Conditions & Schedule
Anticipated schedule: 4 days on, 3 days off; typical workdays 10 hours. Field season early July to early‑mid September. 24 hours/week during terms, 40 hours/week during breaks.
Lodging provided at Pringle Falls Experimental Forest; occasional overnight camping may be required.
Field work involves hiking, rugged terrain, hot and exposed conditions. Short‑term campsites may require carrying own water, food, and toiletries.
Equal Opportunity Statement
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability, protected veteran, and other protected status.
Additional Information
OSU will conduct a review of the National Sex Offender Public website prior to hire.
Job offers are contingent upon Human Resources final approval.
Contact:
Meg Krawchuk,
meg.krawchuk
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Title: Pringle Summer Field Technician
Company: Oregon State University
Location: Corvallis, USA
Category:
