RamCorps Forest Monitoring Technician

Colorado State University•Fort Collins, CO

24d•$15•Hybrid

About The Position

This AmeriCorps Member will be based in Fort Collins, Colorado as part of the Forest Monitoring Program, which is within the Science and Data Division of the Colorado State Forest Service (CSFS). The Forest Monitoring Program is staffed with four full-time employees with a range of field-based monitoring experience, silviculture knowledge, and experience in forest health projects. The AmeriCorps Member will be involved in field data collection for wildfire risk mitigation and forest health projects. They will also help with data entry and data management, have opportunities to interact with landowners, and assist with pre- and post-field season tasks. We are seeking applicants who are professional, self-directed, innovative, and energetic. Of special interest are applicants that demonstrate a capacity to learn new skills, think critically, and serve as effective team members. The primary office location is in Fort Collins, CO with frequent travel to various field locations in Colorado. While this position is eligible for some hybrid work, the individual is expected to maintain a balance establishing a presence in the primary office, to effectively carry out the duties of the position. Work schedule will vary but some nights and weekends will be required. This position will include weekly travel within Colorado.

Requirements

Must be at least 18 years old at start of service.
Must have a valid driver’s license or the ability to obtain a driver’s license by the employment start date.
Be a citizen, national, or lawful permanent resident of the United States.
Able to pass a National Service Criminal History Check (state, FBI, and National Sex Offender Public Website checks) per 45 CFR 2540.202.
High school diploma or G.E.D.
Demonstrated experience with Microsoft Office Suite and Zoom.
Ability to perform strenuous outdoor work and carry backpacks with 25+ pounds of work and personal gear across steep terrain in all inclement weather conditions.

Nice To Haves

Demonstrated ability to plan, organize, prioritize, and complete multiple tasks with minimal supervision based on submitted application materials.
One season of field experience in forestry, landscaping, or working outdoors.

Responsibilities

Participate in on-going trainings and events as required and requested by AmeriCorps, CSU Extension, and/or partner sites.
Field data collection (tree height, tree diameter, fuel loading, canopy cover, fuel-model determination, growth habit, ground cover classification, ocular estimates of plant cover, litter, and duff measurements). Member will be exposed to biting/stinging insects, and wildlife during field work. The member will receive training on field safety.
Interaction with landowners and other CSFS employees across Colorado to guide through monitoring process and protocols and site access
Participate and seek out professional development and other opportunities which can be tailored to career goals.
Complete contract service hours (quarter-time: 450 hours) and site-specific responsibilities by August 21, 2026.

Benefits

A living allowance of approximately $821.25 for full time per pay period on a bi-weekly cycle for an approximate total of $6,570 for the term of service.
Taxes are deducted and the living allowance is distributed via direct deposit to the member.
An education award of $1,956.35 earned upon successful completion of term of service.
It is possible to temporarily postpone repayment of qualified student loans through forbearance while serving as an AmeriCorps member.
Possible mileage reimbursement for travel to required trainings and days of service.
Access to ongoing professional development trainings and resources through the university.
Experience working with professionals in the field with on the ground training.
Non-tangible benefits including making a difference in a community, valuable networking opportunities, and serving the local community in an identified area of need.
Alumni benefits include priority hiring with organizations that are part of Employers of National Service and the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program to eliminate educational debt.
Other certifications, experience, etc. (Trainings may include: FVS training, CPR/First Aid Training, UTV/ATV Safety Institute Training and Snowmobile Training, GIS training).