Student Technical Assistant, Oregon State University

Corvallis, OR

Job Title: Student Technical Assistant 

Organization: Oregon State University

Overview: Two technicians are needed during summer 2021 to assist with ongoing research on pollinators in managed forests. The successful applicant will have the opportunity to contribute to research on wild bumble bee populations and movement in the Oregon Coast Range. The objective of this research is to assess how behavior, population dynamics, and health of native bumble bees are affected by stand and landscape characteristics in managed forests using cutting-edge genetic capture-recapture techniques.

Currently looking for an enthusiastic candidate who is motivated to gain experience collecting ecological data and sampling insects. This is a great opportunity for students interested in ecology, entomology, botany, and/or forest research.

Duties: 

  • Collecting wild pollinators using a variety of techniques (netting, traps, non-lethal tissue samples)
  • Identifying native and exotic flowering plant species
  • Measuring plant community, environmental, and management-related variables
  • Labeling and organizing sampled specimens
  • Entering data

At least 80% of work hours will be in the field. Field work will take place in the rugged and scenic Coast Range of western Oregon and will involve physically demanding work in challenging conditions (heat, cold, rain, sun, steep slopes, loose rock, logging slash, stinging insects, hazardous plants), working long days, including some weekends, driving on logging roads, and navigating through difficult forest terrain.

Qualifications: Applicants should be working towards a B.S. degree in entomology, animal ecology, botany, forestry, or a related field.

Successful applicants will:

  • Be self-motivated, with a strong work ethic
  • Be able to carry heavy gear (30+ lbs) on steep slopes
  • Have a valid driver’s license and clean driving record
  • Be able to maintain a positive disposition under challenging field conditions
  • Be able to work safely, efficiently, and cooperatively in a team setting
  • Have excellent communication and organizational skills
  • Complete CPR/First Aid Certification prior to official start date. Certification costs will be paid by employer
  • 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

Start and end dates: Summer 2021

Salary/pay: $12.00-$15.50/hr

Application Deadline: March 15

How to Apply: Please click here to view the full job description, as well as how to apply

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