Casual Nonexempt

Summary of duties

Knowledge of water availability and dynamic fluctuations over time is critical to forest management, timber operations, and water supply for rural communities. Technical support is sought for the long-term research program at the Marcell Experimental Forest (MEF), in north-central Minnesota. The person hired will be part of a team of USDA Forest Service, University of Minnesota, and other researchers. The MEF was established in the 1960s to initiate studies of study hydrological responses to forest management, including long-term monitoring to document the magnitude and duration of responses as forests grow and regenerate if disturbed.

Duties/Responsibilities:
Goals and Objectives: Complete data collection that will contribute to the long-term research and development program at the MEF and the collection of data for the development of a landscape-scale model of soil water availability. The goal is to measure and monitor soils, water, and forest biomass, and to maintain environmental monitoring capacity in support of research.

• (80%) maintain monitoring and operations at the MEF according to schedules and protocols for sub-daily, daily, weekly, monthly, and quarterly measurements, depending on measurement type; collection of new soil and water samples; installation of new environmental sensors and measurement infrastructure
• (7.5%) enter data and maintain records of field work, contribute to metadata documentation and the archival process for data
• (5%) participate in project meetings and professional development opportunities
• (7.5%) work with Forest Service personnel to download, document, transfer, and organize data
  
  

Required Qualifications:

• Enrolled in or graduated from a BS degree program in hydrology, soil science, environmental studies, ecology, engineering, or closely related fields
• Ability to work independently and closely with others
• Commitment to broad engagement with research partners including senior personnel, graduate students, and other technical support staff involved in the MEF research programAbility to complete moderately strenuous work outdoors throughout the year in the northern Minnesota landscape as well as complete office and laboratory work as needed to support the research program at the Marcell Experimental Forest
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Maintain a valid driver's license, insurance coverage, and a safe driving

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience and proficiency with basic hydrological and meteorological measurements
• Knowledge of environmental sensors, dataloggers, and associated telecommunications devices/protocolsExperience with and expertise in soil moisture measurement and monitoring methods
• Familiarity with small catchment studies and long-term monitoring studies

Pay Range: $17 - $18 per hour; depending on education/qualifications/experience.

Retirement plan options are available for Civil Service, Faculty, Labor-Represented, Professional & Administrative, and Temp Casual classifications. Learn more about retirement plans.

While our salary ranges provide a framework, it is important to note that most of the time, the initial pay may not reach the maximum of the range. This approach ensures that compensation reflects the value and unique contributions of each candidate while maintaining equity within our organization. As part of our commitment to fair and equitable compensation, please be aware that the salary offered to incoming candidates will be based on their individual credentials and experience.

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