Field Assistant (temporary)

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Interested in fire ecology and old-growth forests?

Want to work in Cascade Mountains?

APPLY NOW!

The Harvey Lab ( in the School of Environmental and Forest Sciences at the University of Washington is hiring up to 6 full time field assistants (Research Aide 1 (NE H NI CNU)) to work on research projects in forests of the Cascade Mountains during summer 2024. We are looking for individuals who are interested in forest and fire ecology, adaptable, 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, working on the following two focal areas across the Cascade Mountains in Washington and northern Oregon:

Post-fire vegetation and fuels measurements in recently burned forests

Measuring long-term old-growth forest plots

We acknowledge our work in the PNW 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 AND RESPONSIBILITIES

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 plant species

(c) Tagging, measuring, and mapping trees

(d) Assessing tree mortality and regeneration

(e) Measuring fuels and carbon

LOGISTICS:

Work schedule will be variable based on conditions and location, but generally involve 5-10-day stints in the field. During work stints, vehicles, roundtrip travel from Seattle to sampling locations, food, and lodging will be provided at no cost (in addition to hourly pay). Lodging will consist primarily of camping with potential for occasional field housing (not guaranteed). Camping gear (e.g., tents, sleeping pads) will be available for anyone who needs it. Lodging is not provided on off-days.

OPPORTINITIES TO GAIN EXPERIENCE:

Outdoor fieldwork, data collection, and research experience with multiple collaborators

PNW forest plant identification

Characterizing forest structure and burn severity

Tree tagging, measuring, and mapping

Operating a variety of forestry tools and equipment

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

Two years college credits with major study in engineering or science, OR two years work experience equivalent to that performed by a research aide 1.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

Commitment to a safe work environment that promotes equity, inclusion, and diversity

Demonstrated interest in environmental science or related field

Ability to follow detailed data collection protocols

Ability to adapt to changing schedules & conditions

Ability to work well as a team and live cooperatively with others

CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

Valid driver's license

Willingness to work full days in variable weather and terrain, prioritizing safety

Willingness to lodge in mobile, group campsite settings under rugged outdoor conditions

DURATION: June 1 to October 1

COMPENSATION: $20.01/hour (+ travel / lodging / food costs during work stints are covered above hourly pay!)