Biological Science Research Technician Forest Data Collection

Position Details

Department: Forest Eng/Resourcs/Mgmt (FOR).
Classification

Title:

Bio Science Research Tech 1.
Job Title: Biological Science Research Technician 1:
Forest Data Collection.
Appointment Type: Classified Staff.
Job Location: Blue River.
Benefits Eligible: Not benefits eligible.
Employment Category: Seasonal.

This recruitment will fill multiple full-time seasonal (June–September) Biological Sciences Research Technician 1:
Forest Data Collection positions for the Department of Forest Engineering, Resources, and Management at Oregon State University (OSU). The positions are located in Blue River, Oregon. Technicians will serve as crew members supporting field data collection associated with research and monitoring studies in forest types of western Oregon and Washington.

The crew will collect data for the Pacific Northwest Permanent Sample Plot Program, which aims to understand long-term patterns of undisturbed and post‑fire forest dynamics across diverse forest types in Oregon and Washington. Employees will learn about forest succession, tree mortality, and post‑fire conditions in mature and old‑growth forests of the Cascade Mountains and Coast Range. The crew will be based at the HJ Andrews Experimental Forest near Blue River, Oregon, and apartment‑style housing will be provided.

Oregon State University is a dynamic community of dreamers, doers, problem‑solvers, and change‑makers. We welcome students, faculty, and staff from every background and perspective into a community where everyone feels seen and heard. Our deep‑rooted mindfulness for the natural world and all who depend on it guides us as we apply knowledge and skills to build a better future for all.

• Top 1.4% university in the world.
• More research funding than all public universities in Oregon combined.
• 1 of 3 land, sea, space and sun grant universities in the U.S.
• 2 campuses, 11 colleges, 12 experiment stations, and Extension programs in all 36 counties.
• 7 cultural resource centers that offer education, celebration and belonging for everyone.
• 100+ undergraduate degree programs, 80+ graduate degrees plus hundreds of minor options and certificates.
• 35k+ students, including more than 2.3k international students and 10k students of color.
• 217k+ alumni worldwide.
• For more interesting facts about OSU visit: (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)./about

• Medical, Dental, Vision and Basic Life. OSU pays 95% of premiums for you and your eligible dependents.
• Free confidential mental health and emotional support services, and counseling resources.
• Retirement savings paid by the university.
• A generous paid leave package, including holidays, vacation and sick leave.
• Tuition reduction benefits for you or your qualifying dependents at OSU or the additional six Oregon Public Universities.
• Robust Work Life programs including Dual Career assistance resources, flexible work arrangements, a Family Resource Center, Affinity Groups and an Employee Assistance Program.
• Optional lifestyle benefits such as pet, accident, and critical illness insurance, giving you peace of mind and the support you need to thrive in all aspects of your life.

60% Measure and map trees and record forest inventory data:

• Identify tree, shrub, and herbaceous species of Pacific Northwest forests.
• Use diameter tape to measure trees.
• Use a compass and laser or tape to map tree locations.
• Assess condition of tree stem and canopy.
• Assess condition and causal agents of dead trees.
• Use a hammer and pliers to attach and maintain tree tags.

25% Locate and navigate to study plots:

• Use geoPDFs, GPS units, road maps, topographical maps, and compass to plan driving and hiking routes to study sites.
• Hike off‑trail in steep, brushy terrain to permanent plot locations.
• Use a compass, laser or tape to reestablish plot corners (if necessary).

15% Record and check data quality and completeness:

• Collect data using electronic data recorders (or paper data forms, if necessary).
• Review data files or paper data forms for accuracy and completeness, paying careful attention to detail.
• Upload electronic data files (or scan paper data forms).

Two years of…