Biological Science Research Technician 1

Oregon State University, United States

Updated: 21 days ago
Location: Blue River, KENTUCKY
Deadline: 10 Apr 2024

Position Details
Position Information


Department Forest Eng/Resourcs/Mgmt (FOR)
Classification Title Bio Science Research Tech 1
Job Title Biological Science Research Technician 1
Appointment Type Classified Staff
Job Location Blue River
Benefits Eligible Dependent: Hours Worked/Duration
Remote or Hybrid option?
Employment Category Seasonal
Job Summary
This recruitment will be used to fill two to six (2-6) full-time, seasonal (June – October) Biological Science Research Technician 1 positions for the Department of Forest Engineering and Resource Management at Oregon State University (OSU). These positions will be located in Blue River, Oregon.
These positions will serve as crew members to support ongoing field data collection associated with research and monitoring studies in forest types of Western Oregon and Washington. The technicians will assist the crew leader with tree and vegetation measurements, data recording, data management, and plot location.
These positions will collect data for the Pacific Northwest Permanent Sample Plot Program. The project objective is to understand the long-term patterns and mechanisms of undisturbed and post-fire forest dynamics across a diversity of forest types in Oregon and Washington. Employee 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. Position(s) will start in mid-June and last until mid-September.
For more information: http://pnwpsp.forestry.oregonstate.edu
Why OSU?
Working for Oregon State University is so much more than a job!
Oregon State University is a dynamic community of dreamers, doers, problem-solvers and change-makers. We don’t wait for challenges to present themselves — we seek them out and take them on. We welcome students, faculty and staff from every background and perspective into a community where everyone feels seen and heard. We have deep-rooted mindfulness for the natural world and all who depend on it, and together, we apply knowledge, tools and skills to build a better future for all.
FACTS:
• 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: https://oregonstate.edu/about
Locations:
Oregon State has a statewide presence with campuses in Corvallis and Bend, the OSU Portland Center and the Hatfield Marine Science Center on the Pacific Coast in Newport.
Oregon State’s beautiful, historic and state-of-the-art main campus is located in one of America’s best college towns. Corvallis is located close to the Pacific Ocean, the Cascade mountains and Oregon wine country. Nestled in the heart of the Willamette Valley, this beautiful city offers miles of mountain biking and hiking trails, a river perfect for boating or kayaking and an eclectic downtown featuring local cuisine, popular events and performances.
Total Rewards Package:

Oregon State University offers a comprehensive benefits package with benefits eligible positions that is designed to meet the needs of employees and their families including:
• 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.
Future and current OSU employees can use the Benefits Calculator to learn more about the full value of the benefits provided at OSU.
Key Responsibilities
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 road maps, topographical maps, compass and Global Positioning System (GPS) 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:
  • Record data legibly on paper data forms or with electronic data recorders.
  • Review data forms or data files for accuracy and completeness, paying careful attention to detail.
  • Scan paper data forms or upload electronic data files.
What We Require

Two years of college-level courses in (specific field of biological science); OR an equivalent combination of training and experience.
What You Will Need
  • Two years of college-level courses in forestry, botany, natural resources, environmental science or closely related field; OR an equivalent combination of training and experience.
  • Ability to follow complex data-collection procedures.
  • Experience or training in forest inventory methods and measurements.
  • Experience navigating mountainous terrain using compass, map and GPS.
  • Demonstrated ability to work independently and with other crew members in a professional manner while maintaining a positive and safe work environment.


This position requires driving a university vehicle or a personal vehicle on behalf of the university; therefore, the incumbent must successfully complete a motor vehicle history check, possess and maintain a current, valid driver’s license in their state of residence, be determined to be position qualified and self-report convictions as per University Policy 05-030.
What We Would Like You to Have
  • Experience or training in identifying the symptoms and causes of tree mortality.
  • Field experience identifying plant species and using taxonomic keys.
  • Familiarity with the woody and herbaceous plants of the Cascade Mountains or proven ability to learn them quickly.
  • Prior experience conducting field work and collecting data for ecological research.
  • First-aid or wilderness first-aid training.
  • Wildland Firefighting training.
  • A demonstrable commitment to promoting and enhancing diversity.
Working Conditions / Work Schedule
  • These positions require the ability to work long hours outdoors in in all weather conditions in a remote forested environment.
  • The employee is required to work in forested, mountainous terrain with steep, uneven slopes, dense understory vegetation and biting insects, in a range of weather conditions from cold rain to extreme summer heat. Exposure to poison oak is a possibility.
  • The required work schedule during summer 2023 is anticipated to be four consecutive, 10-hour days followed by three consecutive days off, but is subject to change as needed.
  • Crews will be based at the HJ Andrews Experimental Forest near Blue River, Oregon, where free housing (apartments) will be provided at the forest headquarters.
  • Camping is required when working in remote research locations. When camping, a stipend will be paid to cover costs of food and campground fees.
  • The ability to lift/carry/push/pull objects weighing up to 40 pounds.
Pay Method Hourly
Pay Period 16th - 15th of the following month
Pay Date Last working day of the month
Min Salary $15.59
Max Salary $20.62
Link to Position Description
https://jobs.oregonstate.edu/position_descriptions/133058

Posting Detail Information


Posting Number P04724CT
Number of Vacancies Multiple
Anticipated Appointment Begin Date 06/17/2024
Anticipated Appointment End Date 10/20/2024
Posting Date 03/20/2024
Full Consideration Date
Closing Date 04/10/2024
Indicate how you intend to recruit for this search Competitive / External - open to ALL qualified applicants
Special Instructions to Applicants
Applications will be reviewed based on the information submitted on the employment profile with education and work history along with any other requested documentation i.e. posting specific question responses, transcripts, etc.

Your profile MUST clearly show how you meet the minimum/required qualifications for the position.
Resumes are NOT accepted at the application stage for this position.
Cover letters are optional for this position and will not be used for evaluating your qualifications.
Equivalent required experience is based on full-time equivalent (40 hours per week).
PLEASE NOTE: If you have volunteer experience relevant to this position, please include in the Employment History section and note length of time, average number of hours per week and major duties.
Typically, the starting salary is at the lower end of the salary range.
For additional information please contact:
| Name:  | Andrew Bluhm
| Email: | [email protected]
OSU commits to inclusive excellence by advancing equity and diversity in all that we do. We are an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity employer, and particularly encourage applications from members of historically underrepresented racial/ethnic groups, women, individuals with disabilities, veterans, LGBTQ community members, and others who demonstrate the ability to help us achieve our vision of a diverse and inclusive community.
OSU will conduct a review of the National Sex Offender Public website prior to hire
OSU is a fair chance employer committed to inclusive hiring. We encourage applications from candidates who bring a wide range of lived experience including involvement with the justice system. This job has “critical or security-sensitive” responsibilities. If you are selected as a finalist, your initial job offer will be contingent upon the results of a job-related pre-employment check (such as a background check, motor vehicle history check, sexual misconduct reference check, etc.). Background check results do not automatically disqualify a candidate. Take a look at our Background Checks website including the for candidates section for more details. If you have questions or concerns about the pre-employment check, please contact OSU’s Employee and Labor Relations team at [email protected] .
Transcripts must be submitted for all required and/or related courses. All courses must be from accredited colleges, universities, or private vocational schools. The online application system will allow you to attach your transcripts if the PDF file is 9MB or less. Transcripts must be received by the closing date. If you have trouble uploading your transcripts, reach out to the contact listed.

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