The Silviculture Lab at the University of Idaho is searching for multiple seasonal field technicians to work as a team collecting data for a project examining burn severity and recovery of restored western white pine stands that burned across the Northern Rockies in 2015. Western white pine once dominated the moist forests across the region, but populations were decimated over the last 100 years from the introduced white pine blister rust pathogen and harvesting. National Forests across the Northern Rockies are increasing western white pine abundance through planting programs and the 2015 fires were the first major fires to affect a substantial amount of these restored stands. Western white pine, a disturbance resilient species with adaptation capabilities, is considered a critical species for the future with increasing disturbance and uncertain climate. It is therefore critical to study how wildfires affected these stands to help National Forest managers develop management strategies. This project is a collaboration between the the Silviculture Lab at the University of Idaho and the USDA Forest Service Rocky Mountain Research Station.
Technicians will work 40 hours per week collecting field data. Expected employment period is May 22 – August 18, 2017. Field work will be conducted on National Forest lands throughout Region 1 (Montana and Idaho). Periodic camping will be required. Technicians will be expected to provide their own camping supplies. Pay rate will range from $10- 13/hr depending on qualifications. Minimum Qualifications: Documented experience with forest measurements and tools, ability to work in the field during all weather conditions, be able to camp and hike in rugged terrain, ability to carry 25 lbs, pass a criminal background check, possess a valid US driver’s license, be able to drive University of Idaho vehicles (cannot have suspended license in the past three years, cannot have alcohol or drug-related expense). Desired Qualifications: Knowledge of Inland Northwest tree species and forest vegetation, interest in pursuing forestry or wildland fire science as a career, demonstrated leadership skills. Interested applicants should submit a brief statement of interest and experience, resume or CV, and contact information (name, affiliation, phone number, and email) for at least 2 professional or academic references in a single PDF document to Dr. Andrew Nelson ([email protected]). Review of applications will begin February 15, 2017. Reference “Northern Rockies Wildland Fire Assessment” in your email.
