Part-Time Field Technologists for Crop-Tree and Gap-Dynamics in Mixed-Oak Forests in Pennsylvania Project

Penn State University•Ferguson Township, PA

9d•Onsite

About The Position

The Department of Ecosystem Science and Management at Penn State University is seeking up to eight field technologists to assist in a joint research project with the Pennsylvania Game Commission focused on quantifying crop tree and vegetation dynamics in artificially created gaps in mixed-oak stands throughout north-central and north-western Pennsylvania. The technologists operate in multi-person crews to carefully measure forest stand attributes, including ground vegetation. This project has the overall goal to better understand wildlife response to novel applications of crop-tree treatments in young, forested stands. Study sites are located on State Game Lands throughout the northwest and northcentral regions of Pennsylvania. Work will involve daily travel to field sites and some overnight travel. Housing will be provided away from State College (July, August) and transportation to all field sites will be provided.

Requirements

Work primarily will be outdoors which often involves traversing steep, rugged, uneven terrain in all weather conditions.
Selected applicants must have a valid driver’s license.
Applicants should also have a strong work ethic, forest measurement skills, and plant/tree identification skills.

Nice To Haves

Preferred candidates will have college-level course work or experience in the fields of wildlife, forestry, or natural resource management.
Preference given to students who completed or are pursuing a degree in forestry, wildlife, natural resources, environmental sciences, biology or a closely related field.

Responsibilities

Uses basic surveying techniques, aerial photographs, topographic and timber stand maps, compass, and GPS as necessary to conduct field work.
Identifies, measures and records ground flora vegetation variables including, but not limited to, species, percent cover and/or stem count.
Accurately identifies tree, shrub, vine, grass and herbaceous plant species.
Measures crown dimensions of crop-trees and size of gap openings in experimental treatments.
Photo documents plot with digital camera; downloads and labels photos.
Measures condition, diameter and dimensions of downed woody debris.
Transfers all data according to documented procedures.
Collects and compiles GPS data.
Manages organization of hard and digital copies of field data records.
Communicates with other field, research, and supervisory staff.