Part-Time Seasonal Field Technologist

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JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS

Project overview: The Department of Ecosystem Science and Management at Penn State is seeking one technologist to assist with data collection and analysis on two research projects. Both projects will study vegetation dynamics in young mixed-oak hardwoods stands with the goal of improving silviculture practices. The technologist's primary duty is to supervise the field crew of the Crop Tree and Gap Dynamics Project. Additionally, the technologist is tasked with modelling the effect of overstory tree retention on the growth of young saplings.

Job details:

Trains interns on the measurement protocols for the Crop Tree and Gap Dynamics Project. Supervises the field crew for the first two to three weeks of the field season. Once the crew can work independently, the technologist will perform weekly audits to ensure data quality. Assists the field crew with data collection on days when they are short-staffed. Oversees mapping of study sites using unmanned aerial vehicles. Uses this remotely sensed data to measure tree height and percent canopy cover. Assesses the accuracy of these measurements in the field. Carefully measures diameter, height, and crown dimensions of trees; models the diameter increment of saplings by overstory tree density, size, species etc.

Job requirements:

Must have a bachelor's degree or higher in forest ecosystem management. Completed coursework in silviculture, remote sensing, GIS, and spatial analysis. Demonstrate proficiency in Python or R programming language. Preferred candidates will be versed in recent literature on retention silviculture, early rotation treatments, and remote sensing methods in forestry. The technologist will travel to study sites in central and northwestern Pennsylvania in their personal vehicle. They are expected to work with minimal supervision in remote, rugged environments and adverse weather conditions. Strong plant species identification skills are required.

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. This position requires that you operate a motor vehicle as a part of your job duties. A valid driver's license and successful completion of a motor vehicle records check will be required in addition to standard background checks.

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS

Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.

EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473. Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university's teaching, research, and service mission. Federal Contractors Labor Law Poster PA State Labor Law Poster Penn State Policies Copyright Information Hotlines There's a reason Penn State consistently ranks among the top one percent of the world's universities. Across 24 campuses, our 100,000 students and 40,000 faculty and staff know the real measure of success goes beyond the classroom - it's the positive impact made on communities across the world. Our ideals stem from our origins as Pennsylvania's sole land-grant institution, which allow us to continue to bring positive impact to humanity through our teaching, research, and engagement mission. And across the world is a community of Penn Staters - more than half a million strong - driven by that same spirit to serve our local and global communities. At Penn State, passion is met with collaboration in an environment that is rooted in shared pride for the accomplishments of our fellow students, faculty, staff, and alumni. Penn Staters cheer each other on to build a culture committed to service and engagement. Our University values represent our core ethical aspirations for all our daily activities and actions as students, faculty, staff, and volunteers at Penn State. Our values are as follows; Integrity, Respect, Responsibility, Discovery, Excellence, and Community. We Are Penn State. One Community. Impacting Many.