Summer 2008 Field Work in High Elevation Forest Ecology
"Spatial and Temporal Vegetation Patterns in the Forest-Tundra Ecotone,
Oregon Cascades"
Location: Jefferson Park, Mount Jefferson Wilderness, Oregon
Job Description: One position is available to assist ongoing
research investigating spatial and temporal patterns of forest-tundra
ecotone vegetation in the Oregon Cascades (Mount Jefferson Wilderness).
Research involves collection of overstory and understory species
composition and structure data on forest inventory plots and transects in
sub-alpine forests and alpine meadows. Position entails field (90% of
duties) and data entry/laboratory work (10%). Field responsibilities
include overstory and understory vegetation sampling, tree coring, and
physical site characterization. Lab work will include sanding and mounting
tree core samples, and data entry.
Logistics: Primary work location is Jefferson Park, Mount Jefferson
Wilderness, in the Willamette National Forest. All field work requires
backpacking into the study area (~6 miles one way), and camping within the
wilderness area for extended time periods. Transportation to and from
Corvallis will be provided. Additional laboratory work will occur in
Corvallis at the OSU College of Forestry (Department of Forest Science).
Housing in Corvallis is not provided.
Duration: July 1 –Sept/Oct, 2008; Exact starting and ending dates
will depend on the timing of spring snowpack melt, and the onset of fall
snow accumulation. Part time lab work may be available after the field
season.
Salary: $11 - $12 / hour, depending on qualifications and experience. A
field stipend will also be provided.
Qualifications: Field crew position is best suited to upper-level
undergraduates or recent graduates who are interested in botany, forest
ecology or related fields. Applicants should have field experience in
sampling forest understory and overstory vegetation. Experience
identifying the flora of the Pacific Northwest and/or the ability to
utilize taxonomic keys is preferred. Prior experience backpacking (either
recreationally or work related) in mountainous terrain is required.
Seeking an individual who is attentive to detail, can work long hours
under strenuous field conditions, and can work cooperatively with others.
Valid driver’s license is preferred, but not required. Additional
orienteering, aerial photo interpretation, and GPS experience are
desirable, but not required. Wilderness First Aid or First Responder
certification is desirable but not required. Selected applicant must be
able to provide his/her own camping gear (backpack, sleeping bag, tent,
raingear, etc.).
Closing date: Applications must be received by April 25, 2008
To apply, send the following:
1) Cover letter describing qualifications, work-related
interests, and
dates of availability
2) Resume
3) Unofficial copies of college transcripts
4) Names of two references with telephone and e-mail contact
information
Send application materials to*:
Harold Zald
Department of Forest Science
321 Richardson Hall
Oregon State University
Corvallis, OR 97331
FAX: (541) 737-1393
*Electronic application submissions are preferred and can be sent to
[EMAIL PROTECTED]
