Forest Ecology Field Positions in Western Oregon – Summer 2005

DESCRIPTION: One field crew leader (1) and five field crew positions (5) are available to assist with a long-term ecological study in the forests of western Oregon. The field crew will participate in vegetation studies as part of the Density Management Study (DMS) The DMS was designed to investigate whether thinning at various densities can accelerate development of late-successional characteristics in managed young forests (40-70 yrs). More information about the DMS and its’ principal investigators can be found at http://ocid.nacse.org/nbii/density/.
Field sites are located in the western Oregon Coast Range and western Cascade Foothills. The field crew will establish and sample permanent plots to characterize response of vegetation composition and structure to harvest treatments. Responsibilities will include: locating and installing plots; identifying and estimating abundance of herbs, shrubs and non-vascular plants; measuring overstory trees; measuring coarse woody debris; and characterizing substrate. In addition, the field crew leader responsibilities will include planning, coordination, data quality control and downloading field data.
The field crew positions are best suited to upper-level undergraduates or recent graduates who are interested in continuing work and/or studies in forest ecology or forestry. The nature of the work requires extended periods in the field (typically 4, 10 hr days). The crew will be based in Corvallis, OR. Lodging will not be provided in Corvallis, but summer accommodations are not difficult to find. Hotel lodging or camping gear/accommodations and per diem will be provided to the crew during the work week, when work is not near Corvallis.
QUALIFICATIONS: Previous field experience in sampling forest overstory and understory vegetation or other vegetation; familiarity with the flora of western Oregon and/or ability to utilize taxonomic keys. We seek individuals who are attentive to detail, can work long hours under strenuous field conditions (e.g., steep slopes, dense vegetation, inclement weather), are flexible and can work cooperatively with others. The field crew leader will have previous experience leading crews and/or will have extensive field work experience and strong leadership skills.
SALARY:
Field crew leader: $13.00/hr, plus per diem for overnights. Field crew positions: $10.00-12.00/hr, depending on qualifications and past experience, plus per diem for overnights.
DURATION: June 20 - September 30, 2005
CLOSING DATE: For full consideration: April 1, 2005, or until positions have been filled.
TO APPLY SEND THE FOLLOWING:
Cover letter that includes your qualifications, work-related interests, and your dates of availability; Resume; List of two references with telephone and email contact information; Copies of unofficial college transcripts (if applicable).
ALL APPLICATION MATERIALS SHOULD BE SENT TO:
Shanti Berryman
Department of Forest Science
321 Richardson Hall
Oregon State University
Corvallis, OR 97331
Electronic applications can be sent to Shanti.Berryman@oregonstate.edu
FOR MORE INFORMATION: contact Shanti Berryman, project coordinator
Email: Shanti.Berryman@oregonstate.edu
Phone: (541) 737-9882