Field Technician I

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POSITION SUMMARY

Field technicians will work directly with Mountain Studies Institute (MSI) as part of our dedicated forest monitoring team to support our collaborative forest health partners across southwest Colorado and northwest New Mexico. Feld technician will assist with forest monitoring, data entry, and other MSI projects as needed.  

EXPECTATIONS

The field technician will work alongside MSI project and field managers and associated partners and volunteers to provide monitoring and field support for a variety of Forest Program projects. The field technician will assist with the collection of data related to ecological monitoring efforts led by MSI, the US Forest Service, and forest health collaboratives. The field technician will work in multiple locations across southwest Colorado and northwest New Mexico. In addition to monitoring activities, the field technician may assist with non-field activities, such as data entry, field equipment upkeep, and volunteer oversight. A qualified candidate will demonstrate knowledge of how to care for their personal needs and the needs of their team in field settings and must be able to follow monitoring and safety protocol with fidelity. This position will require lengthy days and traveling on foot over rough terrain. This position will also require overnight car camping for three to four nights per week for the majority of the term.  

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Valid driver’s license or the ability to obtain a driver’s license by the employment start date
• Willingness and ability to work long hours and unusual schedules across rugged terrain and in adverse weather conditions
• Willingness to camp up to three to four nights per field week
• Ability to carry a 30-45lb pack and work at elevations between 4,000 and 10,000 feet
• Ability to follow written and oral instructions, including ability to consistently follow and adhere to detailed field protocols
• High School diploma or GED

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Wilderness First Aid certification
• Prior experience with common field mensuration techniques
• Relevant undergraduate course work in natural resources, forestry, or related field
• Dendrology and/or vegetation identification experience
• Demonstratable experience with safety in backcountry
• Willingness and ability to work with volunteers and crew members of all age ranges and a spectrum of interests
• Ability to operate independently