Forestry Field Technician – Common Stand Exms

Position: Forestry Field Technician – Common Stand Exams
Employer: MTM Environmental, LLC
Location: Wisconsin – Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest
Wyoming – Black Hills National Forest
(Other locations may also be included)
Project Duration: June through October 2024 (Specific Dates TDB)
Job Type: Seasonal

About Us:
MTM Environmental, LLC is a Certified Woman-Owned Small Business (“WOSB”) environmental consulting firm providing a wide range of ecological services for private landowners, land managers, entities, and organizations, such as wildlife surveys, stream sampling, vegetation surveys, environmental DNA sampling, land management planning, conservation easement and baseline documentation reports, mapping, wetland delineations, environmental site assessments, and drone imagery operations, among others. Since our launch in 2021, we have completed numerous projects across the Southeast, Midwest, and Western U.S.

Job Description:
We are seeking forestry field technicians to conduct stand examinations using the Common Stand Exam (“CSE”) protocol in the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, Wisconsin, and in the Black Hills National Forest, Wyoming, as well as other locations. The purpose of this work is to obtain the site, setting, and tree characteristics required to identify stand conditions and capabilities in providing the Government information with which management determinations for natural resources will be made. Compensation starts at $18/hour, based on experience, 40 hrs./week for the duration of the project. Weekly work schedules are flexible, largely determined on survey completion rate and weather. Work period (season) is also negotiable.

This position requires individuals who are comfortable working independently in remote environments, possess forest mensuration experience, possess tree identification skills, and have strong field navigation and data collection skills, physical and mental capabilities to hike off trail up to 10 miles/day often in hot temperatures, and willingness to car camp often in remote areas with no cell service or facilities.

MTM will provide pertinent training, protocols, survey equipment (if needed), and safety gear (e.g., SPOT X satellite communication unit, bear spray, first-aid kit, etc.) to technicians at the beginning of the season, before beginning fieldwork.

Responsibilities:
• Locate, establish, measure, and record data using variable plot data (10 BAF) at designated sample locations using standardized CSE protocols (provided).
• In addition to Plot/Tree Data, other meaningful information will be captured when appropriate, including regeneration, non-native invasive species, raptor nests, stand inclusions, possible heritage/archeology sites, forest health concerns, and others.
• Hike long distances off trail in rugged terrain on a regular basis, often in hot temperatures.
• Car camp daily, often without cell service or facilities.
• Evaluate and characterize forest conditions, noting tree information, snag decay, and other environmental conditions.
• Accurately record and document field data, ensuring precision and attention to detail, following survey protocols.
• Utilize GPS and other technology for navigating to specific survey sites, surveying plots, and recording field data.
• Organize and enter data, update timesheets and worklogs, and research stand access.
• Maintain and troubleshoot field equipment, including optics, GPS devices, cameras, personal computer/tablet, cell phones, and Spot X devices.
• Work collaboratively with other technicians and project leads.
• Obtain permission from private landowners, when needed, to gain access to stand locations.
• Communicate effectively and timely with other field staff and project leads to provide updates on fieldwork progress.
• Submit data (datasheets, photos, GPS, and GIS data, etc.) and timesheets to project lead on a timely basis, as requested.
• Prioritize safety in all field activities.
• Check in frequently with your project lead and be available and responsive by email/phone.

Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in forestry, biology, ecology, environmental science, or related field. (Internships are also available for those working toward a degree in these fields.)
Forest mensuration experience.
Have great attention to detail and can accurately collect and enter data in the field and on a computer.
Willingness to work and temporarily live in remote locations, independently, and/or with a team.
Physical and mental capability of hiking off trail in rugged terrain up to 10 miles a day, often in hot temperatures, while carrying essential gear and water.

Preferred Qualifications:
Prior experience conducting forest inventory, sampling, and/or research.
Knowledge of North Central Region woody plant species and North Central Region plant communities and/or Interior West Region woody plant species and plant communities, or the ability to learn.
Affinity for vehicle-based and backcountry camping, at developed and primitive sites.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills, both written and verbal.
Flexibility working in and out of cell signal while maintaining electronics, technological capability, and professional-level communication, coordination, and research etiquette.
Competency following instructions, and adaptability resolving challenging situations.
Proven adherence to field safety protocols and use of good judgment in the field.
Willingness and eagerness to learn, maintain a good attitude and overcome challenges.
Wilderness First Aid or similar certification.
Experience using a GPS and navigation apps (such as Avenza, GAIA GPS, OnX Maps, etc.)

Applicants must possess the following items:
Hiking, camping, and backpacking gear (including gear for rain, cold, potable water etc.).
Working laptop/tablet for data entry.
A 4WD/AWD personal vehicle is required. Personal vehicles must be able to handle variable road conditions characteristic of the region, e.g., muddy, sandy, and rocky terrain.
Personal field gear (diameter tape, clinometer, prism, etc.) may be used or MTM can provide this equipment for use on this project.

Benefits:
Starting at $18+ per hour, based on experience (Intern rates will vary based upon experience. Please inquire if applying for internship).
A competitive weekly stipend (rate TBD).
All work-related mileage incurred in execution of responsibilities using a personal vehicle will be reimbursed at the current federal mileage rate.
In-person training will be provided for one week, June 19-26 (to be confirmed upon hire) in Sundance, Wyoming or July 17 – 24 (to be confirmed upon hire), in Perkinstown, Wisconsin. Lodging will consist of group camping during that week of training.

If you are unable to stay for the entire period, please include your availability with your cover letter.

MTM Environmental, LLC is an equal opportunity employer. We encourage candidates from diverse backgrounds to apply.