EASTERN OLD GROWTH FOREST SURVEY-FIELD CREW LEADER

We are looking for a field crew leader for approximately 4 months (dates are flexible: early/mid May to mid/late August) to help conduct a vegetation survey of some of the last remaining old growth stands in Pennsylvania. We are conducting this study in collaboration with the PA Bureau of Forestry to describe the species composition and vegetation structure of 20 old growth stands to better understand and aid in conservation of these important, yet rare forest remnants.
DUTIES: Duties will primarily include setting up transect lines and identifying and measuring overstory and understory tree species along transects. Field crew leader will lead a small field crew of 2-3 field workers.
QUALIFICATIONS: Preferred applicants will be upper-level undergraduates or others with experience identifying eastern temperate forest tree/shrub/herb species and skills navigating with compass and topographical maps. In addition, preferred applicants will have a valid drivers license, leadership skills, motivation and ability to work in small groups, be in good physical condition, willing to endure long hours whether rain or shine, and willing to camp in a rural part of PA for the summer.
BENEFITS: Sites being surveyed are some of the last remaining old growth forests in a rural and somewhat remote part of PA, including hemlock-beech, white pine, and hemlock-hardwood stands. Salary is $8 per hour, field vehicle is provided, and lodging will be at near-by campgrounds where the field crew will camp in tents.
CONTACT: Please email a cover letter, resume, and contact information for three references to: Henry Schumacher, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15260. Email: hbs2@pitt.edu. Position will remain open until the appropriate candidate is found.