Forest Health Program Associate

Position Summary:

The Forest Health Program Associate provides technical and field support for mountain pine beetle (MPB) management along Colorado’s Front Range and contributes to statewide forest health initiatives within the Colorado State Forest Service (CSFS). This position independently conducts field assessments, supports research and monitoring of forest insects and diseases, and assists with data collection, analysis, and outreach. Working collaboratively with CSFS staff, private landowners, agency partners, and other stakeholders, the position supports science-based forest health management, applied research, and efforts to address emerging forest health concerns across Colorado.

For full consideration, please apply by January 4, 2027, 11:59 PM (MT).

• Plan and implement field-based forest health monitoring, including deployment, maintenance, and collection of insect traps and associated data.
• Collect, process, and manage insect specimens and field data, ensuring accuracy, quality control, and proper documentation.
• Support applied research activities, including study design, field data collection, forest measurements, and identification of insect and disease impacts.
• Perform taxonomic identification of forest insects and curate specimens for long-term scientific collections.
• Maintain and analyze program datasets; prepare summaries, visualizations, and reports to support decision-making and program delivery.
• Provide technical assistance and support outreach efforts through presentations, materials development, mapping products, and digital communication tools.

Does not supervise.

• Pre-employment Criminal Background Check (required for all new hires).
• Valid Driver's License.
• Travel - 65-85% travel around the state of Colorado.
• This is a term-limited 2 year position, may extend position if funding is available.

• Bachelor's Degree in Natural Resources, Entomology within Biology, Agriculture or Zoology.
• Three years of professional experience in forestry, forest health, entomology, or a related discipline.

• 3+ years of forest health or forest entomology experience.
• Degree emphasis in entomology or forestry.
• Knowledge of forest pest management principles and western U.S. forest ecosystems.
• Experience with insect trapping methods for forest pests (e.g., Lindgren traps, emergence cages, rearing).
• Taxonomic identification skills using keys for insects.
• Experience with field data collection, management, and recordkeeping.
• Strong written communication and experience to work independently.
• Experience with social media, outreach materials, or science communication.
• Interest or experience in UAS (FAA Part 107 license preferred or willingness to obtain).

For additional information contact Dan West t.

$55,000 - $65,000

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