FIA Seasonal Forester

Colorado State University

12d • $23

About The Position

This position will be autonomous, independent, and responsible for conducting forest inventory field work across multiple states. The FIA seasonal is responsible for performing a variety of recurring and complex duties in support of both CSFS and the United States Forest Service (USFS) FIA program. Data collected from these inventories are based on tree measurements, forest health parameters, understory vegetation composition, habitat types, down dead woody material, silvicultural practices, natural disturbances, and land ownership Help locate permanent field plots with road navigation, interpreting maps and aerial photos, determining scale of aerial photos, running compass lines, chaining/pacing distances, and using GPS equipment

Requirements

• Ability to carry a 45+ pound pack while hiking in elevations ranging from 3,000 to 14,000 feet
• Familiar with identification of western tree and shrub species
• Pre-employment Criminal Background Check (required for new hires)
• Travel - Extensive overnight travel is required for a significant portion of every season for this position. Applicants must have the ability and willingness to travel for extended periods of time, work long and irregular hours, evenings, and weekends.
• Special Requirements/Other - Exposure to poisonous plants, biting stinging insects, and wildlife is common; Proficiency in road and backcountry navigation using topographical maps, aerial photos, and GPS units; Ability to hike carrying at least 45 pound packs
• Valid Driver’s License - Must have a valid driver’s license or the ability to obtain a driver’s license or access to a licensed driver by the employment start date.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with topographic maps, compass, and aerial photos for navigation, interpreting cover types, identifying point locations, and navigating in wilderness situations
• Capable of using GPS units to navigate and collect field data
• Basic proficiency using spatial databases, remote sensing technology (ArcGIS software), and Microsoft Office Suite (e.g., Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Office 365)
• Demonstrated proficiency in plant identification and experience with Rocky Mountain flora
• Understanding and experienced with basic field forestry skills related to timber cruising
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including working with the public
• Ability to keep track of weekly work hours and work-related expenses
• Ability to work unusual schedules with frequent travel
• Experience implementing diverse ecological, forestry, and fuels field sampling methods, and knowledge of sampling equipment, procedures and QA/QC protocols

Responsibilities

• Responsible for measuring forest inventory variables related to percent ground cover, tree diameters, tree heights, tree vigor, tree status, and fire fuel loading
• Help locate permanent field plots with road navigation, interpreting maps and aerial photos, determining scale of aerial photos, running compass lines, chaining/pacing distances, and using GPS equipment

Benefits

• Colorado State University is not just a workplace; it’s a thriving community that’s transforming lives and improving the human condition through world-class teaching, research, and service.
• With a robust benefits package, collaborative atmosphere, and focus on work-life balance, CSU is where you can thrive, grow, and make a lasting impact.
• Review our detailed benefits information here.
• Explore the additional perks of working at CSU here.
• For the total value of CSU benefits in addition to wages, use our compensation calculator.
• Lastly, click here for more information about why Fort Collins is consistently ranked in the top cities to live in!

What This Job Offers

• Education Level: No Education Listed
• Number of Employees: 1-10 employees