Forest Vegetation Inventory Technician; Seasonal

Overview

The School of Environmental and Biological Sciences, located on the George H. Cook Campus, is one of the largest schools of Rutgers University in New Brunswick, New Jersey. We pursue excellence in research, teaching, and outreach in areas of study that address the biological spectrum from molecules to ecosystems. Our emphasis is on both the fundamental sciences and the social and human dimensions.

We offer 21 undergraduate majors, including plant and animal sciences, microbiology, biotechnology, agriculture and food systems, landscape architecture, food and nutritional sciences, ecology and evolution, marine science and oceanography, environmental sciences and meteorology, human ecology, entomology, and environmental economics. In addition to instruction in the classroom, field, and laboratory, our students have opportunities for experiential learning on and off campus, including a growing emphasis on international experiences through short- and long-term study abroad.

Students also have access to a robust program of applied research and outreach hosted by the New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station laboratories, farms, business incubators, and marine stations throughout the state.

Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey is seeking a Forest Vegetation Inventory Technician (Seasonal) for the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences. Among the key duties of the position are the following:

• Performs forest assessment and data collection in each layer of vegetation including the tree canopy layer, shrub layer and herbaceous layer.
• Hikes to plot sites within Morristown National Historical Park.
• Sets up subplot boundaries, collect and record data using custom data collection sheets.
• Clears site and hikes to next location.
• Completes digital data entry work that may be offered on rain days.

Salary $19 per hour (FLSA Nonexempt). Position status:
Full Time. Working hours up to 40 hours per week. Daily shift:
Day. Work arrangement: fully on-site. Terms of appointment:
Temporary Staff Appointment – Hourly.

• Bachelor’s degree in a scientific/technical discipline, or an equivalent combination of education and/or relevant laboratory technician or research study experience carrying out research protocols and tests, or other technical work may be substituted for the degree.

• Knowledge of Northern NJ forest plant and tree identification.
• Ability to work cooperatively within a team.
• Attention to detail and accuracy in recording data.

• Experience with beech leaf disease identification and evaluation of progression.
• Experience with forest vegetation assessment by vertical strata, data collection and recording of data.
• Compass, GPS Unit, Measuring Implements, light meter.

• Compass, GPS Unit, Measuring Implements, light meter.

• Ability to hike 2 – 4 miles on and off trail, in summer weather carrying supplies and equipment.
• Flexible with work schedule and hours based on weather conditions.

• Medical, prescription drug, and dental coverage
• Paid vacation, holidays, and various leave programs
• Competitive retirement benefits, including defined contribution plans and voluntary tax‑deferred savings options
• Employee and dependent educational benefits (when applicable)
• Life insurance coverage
• Employee discount programs

Open Date: 06/15/2026

Close Date: 06/24/2026

It is university policy to provide equal employment opportunity to all its employees and applicants for employment regardless of their race, creed, color, national origin, age, ancestry, nationality, marital or domestic partnership or civil union status, sex, pregnancy, gender identity or expression, disability status, liability for military service, protected veteran status, affectionate or sexual orientation, atypical cellular or blood trait, genetic information (including the refusal to submit to genetic testing), or any other category protected by law.

As an institution, we encourage all qualified applicants to apply. For additional information please see the Non‑Discrimination Statement at (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..