Careers @ MSU

Position Summary(Basic Job Function)

This is a temporary or an on-call position. Provides professional support. Responsibilities may include general business, science, medical, agricultural or other professional support functions. Term: Temps can work two (2) nine (9) month terms with a week break in service in between and at the end of the second term terminate for three (3) months or switch to an on-call. On-Call allowed to work 1039 hours in any twelve (12) month period.

Unit Position Summary

Would you like to work on a research project that will result in meaningful changes to the future health and management of hardwood forests in the Great Lakes region? The Applied Forest Ecology (Silviculture) Lab in the Department of Forestry at Michigan State University is looking to hire 3-5 field technicians for the 2024 field season (June through mid-August). Our lab is currently collecting tree regeneration data following various harvest treatments. This work takes place across multiple northern hardwood forests in Michigan (scattered throughout the northern lower and upper peninsulas) and mainly consists of quantifying tree regeneration density on research blocks. Current undergraduates and those who have recently graduated are encouraged to apply. Work may be available through the end of November, 2024.

Accommodations:  Field housing (including electricity and running water) is provided free of charge to all crew members, along with transportation on work days.

Qualifications: 

• Experience or aptitude for plant identification
• Familiarity with Google Maps and GPS navigation
• Interest in forest ecology/silviculture 
• Ability to walk 2‐3 miles per day on rough terrain
• Comfortable working in humid conditions/light rain, and alongside mosquitos
• Valid driver’s license with acceptable driving record may be required

Working Conditions: The position will be field-based, including some hot and humid weather. Field conditions may include carrying a less than 30-pound pack and exposure to inclement weather, uneven terrain, insects and allergens.  

To Apply:   
Please send the following information to farinosi@msu.edu with the title "MSU Forestry Field Technician 2024"
- a CV/resume
- brief cover letter outlining your interest in the position and relevant experience
- your dates of availability
- three professional references   

Deadline:

Applications will be considered until the positions have been filled; applicants are encouraged to apply as early as possible.

Desired Qualifications

Qualified applicants should have an interest in forest ecology/silviculture, experience with (or aptitude for) plant and tree identification, familiarity with Google Maps and GPS navigation, experience and/or desire to work outdoors in rugged conditions, the ability to walk 2-3 miles per day on rough terrain, and the ability to handle adverse (i.e. rain/heat/humidity/insects) field conditions.  A valid driver's license and acceptable driving record is required for anyone assigned to drive a University-owned vehicle. 

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Required Application Materials

Submit CV/resume and a brief cover letter outlining your interest in the position and relevant experience, as well as your dates of availability.  Please upload three professional references, including email and phone number.

Special Instructions

MSU students who are eligible for student employment should apply for the same position through Handshake by searching for job #8722989.

Work Hours

Work may be scheduled on weekends to take advantage of favorable weather conditions

Website

FOR.MSU.EDU