Biological Science Research Technician 2 - Military Veterans

Internal Job Number: P05139CT

Description:

This recruitment will be used to fill one full-time Biological Sciences Research Technician 2 position for the Forest Ecosystems and Society at Oregon State University (OSU). This is a limited duration appointment expected to last approximately 6 months from the appointment begin date.

This position will support the collection and processing of data and samples related to research conducted in the Tree Ring Lab, as well as initial analyses and summary exploratory analyses of data, and initial reporting. These research projects investigate forest disturbance, forest successional dynamics, and climate variability. Much of this research is conducted via partnerships with USFS , Indigenous tribes, and collaborative groups.

The research technician will help collect and process tree ring samples including tree cores and cross sections. When in the field, the research technician will assist with installation of forest inventory and analysis plots. Forest inventory and analysis plots are used to record forest conditions. The majority of work by the technician will be in the Tree Ring Lab in the College of Forestry to stabilize, surface, date tree ring samples, and identify cambial injuries. The research technician will provide initial analyses and summary exploratory analyses of data, and initial written reporting. The research technician will provide leadership in the Tree Ring Lab including organization of tasks and assist with training of seasonal hires working in the lab.

Minimum Qualifications (Staff) / Guidelines (Faculty):

Two years of college-level courses in (specific field of biological science) and one year of experience related to the area of assignment at the Biological Research Technician 1 level; OR an equivalent combination of training and experience.

Requirements :

Two years of college-level courses in biology, ecology, forestry, or related field and one year of experience related to the area of assignment at the Biological Research Technician 1 level; OR an equivalent combination of training and experience.

Demonstrated experience working independently and as part of a team.

Demonstrated ability to contribute to an inclusive, respectful, and welcoming workplace environment for individuals with a range of different backgrounds, identities, perspectives, and/or life experiences.

Knowledge and ability to process cross sections from tree stumps and logs for dendrochronological research (i.e. tree ring research), process tree cores for dendrochronological research, and to demonstrate to student workers how to process tree cores and cross sections.

Demonstrated experience safely operating woodworking equipment including sanders, miter saws, and a jointer.

Demonstrated experience performing laboratory crossdating on tree ring samples and/or analysis of tree ring data.

Type:

Shop work will be conducted in a woodworking shop on the OSU Campus. The employee will need to complete safety training and wear ear, eye, and respiratory protection when surfacing and sanding wood samples. Woodworking requires good physical fitness and following strict safety guidelines.

Lab work will be conducted in the Peavy Forest Science Complex on the OSU campus. The employee will need to operate a microscope, tree ring measuring equipment, and basic computer software including Microsoft office programs and R software.

Field work will be conducted at study sites in mature and old-growth forests in western Oregon, within day trips of Corvallis. The employee will need to be able to traverse forested landscapes and travel off trail on steep, uneven terrain carrying >25 pounds of equipment. The employee will need to learn and closely follow field data collection procedures, wear personal protective equipment, and maintain a safe working environment.