The Harvey Lab (https://depts.washington.edu/bjhlab/) at the University of Washington is hiring 7-9 field assistants to work on research projects in forests of the western Cascades during summer 2021. We are looking for individuals who are interested in forest and fire ecology, detail-oriented, able to follow protocols, enjoy working as part of a team outdoors in variable conditions, and can live cooperatively with others. Field assistants are critical members of our team and are essential to advancing research projects!

PROJECT DESCRIPTION: Field assistants will be involved in one or more research projects, which are collaborations between the Harvey Lab, the Washington DNR, Tulalip Tribes, UW Climate Impacts Group, US Forest Service and National Park Service:

  • Post-fire vegetation measurements in recently burned forests across the Western WA and OR Cascades (North Cascades National Park, Mt Baker-Snoqualmie, Gifford Pinchot, Willamette, and Mt Hood National Forests)
  • Measuring long-term old-growth forest plots in Wind River Experimental Forest (near Carson, WA)

We acknowledge our research in the Pacific Northwest is located on homelands of Indigenous peoples, and we have a responsibility to reflect on the histories of dispossession and forced removal of the original inhabitants, as well as the resilience and vibrancy of their cultures today.

DUTIES: Field assistants will be collecting data on forest structure and composition. Tasks will involve: (a) navigating variable terrain to forest plots using maps and GPS; (b) identifying tree, shrub, and herb species; (c) tagging, measuring, and mapping trees; (d) assessing and documenting tree mortality and regeneration; and (e) measuring post-fire fuels and carbon.

LOGISTICS: Lodging during work will consist of a combination of camping and field houses (note: access to field houses will depend on COVID-19 restrictions). Camping gear (e.g., tents, sleeping pads, etc.) is provided for anyone who needs it. Vehicles, roundtrip travel from Seattle to sampling locations, food, and lodging will be provided at no cost (in addition to salary).

REQUIREMENTS FOR THE POSITION:

  • Commitment to a safe work environment that promotes equity, inclusion, and diversity
  • Enrolled in or graduated from college (demonstrated interest in biology, ecology, environmental science, or related field)
  • Valid driver’s license
  • Ability to follow detailed data collection protocols
  • Willingness to work full days in variable weather conditions and terrain, prioritizing safety
  • Willingness to lodge in mobile, group campsite settings under rugged outdoor conditions
  • Ability to work well as a team and live cooperatively with others

SKILLS TO BE GAINED DURING THE POSITION:

  • Experience in outdoor field work, data collection, and research development in a project with multiple collaborators
  • Pacific Northwest forest plant identification (herbs, shrubs, trees, and seedlings)
  • Tree tagging, measuring, and mapping
  • Characterizing forest structure and burn severity
  • Experience with a variety of forestry tools/equipment (e.g., GPS, laser rangefinder, stem-mapping equipment)

DURATION: Approximately mid-June to late-August 2021 (work may be available beyond August into fall 2021)

SALARY: $680/week (+travel, lodging, and food costs are covered!)

TO APPLY: Compile a single PDF application with the following information:

  • Cover letter (1-pg) describing your interest in the position and relevant educational, professional, and/or personal experience to meet the requirements of the position
  • Resume or CV
  • Unofficial transcripts (no minimum GPA requirement)
  • Contact information (name, phone, and email) for two references
  • Earliest available start date & latest available end date

Please send your application & any questions to Liliana Rangel-Parra (lkrp@uw.edu)

APPLICATION DEADLINE: We will begin reviewing applications on February 26, 2021