Research Professional 1 - Forest Inventory Researcher

University of Minnesota, Department of Forest Resources are seeking a Researcher 1 who specializes in forestry inventory and data management to collect field data in remote locations and analyze the collected data across the Midwest Region.

The position will work within the UMN Silviculture lab (Silvalab) to (1) develop appropriate sampling methods while working safely within many different forested ecosystems often in remote locations; (2) collect overstory, understory, tree cores, and other data commonly collected within forest inventories; (3) analyze and synthesize data collected to be used in reports and presentation; (4) share data collection methods and results with stakeholders and rights holders during field workshops and presentations.

• 60% Collect forest inventory data across multiple forest ecosystems in remote locations across the Great Lakes Regions .
• 25% Create standard summary data analysis and statistics for applied forest management applications using tools such as Excel. Write-up interpretations of the results to be used in synthesized reports and presentations.
• 10% Design, write, and produce technical products, presentations, and field workshops.
• 5% Integrate diversity & inclusion training and activities into work.

Required

• B.S. Degree in Forestry, Ecology, Natural Resources or closely related field or a combination of related education and work experience to equal at least four (4) years.
• Experience organizing, prioritizing, and managing multiple work projects and types of activities, while meeting and managing deadlines.
• Demonstrated experience collecting forest inventory data across multiple forest ecosystems with at least one of these forest ecosystems being remote.
• Demonstrated experience with forest trees and understory plant ID especially in lowland conifer ecosystems.
• Demonstrated experience in implementing field safety procedures in the field .
• Demonstrated experience in collecting tree cores and creating digital data with the tree cores
• Excellent interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills.

Preferred

• Six months of research experience
• Demonstrated experience working with applied forest ecosystem research
• Proficiency with computer applications, including word processing, spreadsheet, and presentation applications.
• Demonstrated ability in compiling and synthesizing scientific information.
• Ability to lead; think creatively; proactively adapt to changing environments; act decisively; and motivate, develop, inspire, affirm, and empower others.
• Demonstrated ability to effectively communicate in both technical and non-technical terminology with a variety of audiences.
• Potential ability to apply critical thinking skills in complex situations.

This position will be located at the St. Paul Campus within the Department of Forest Resources working jointly within the SilvaLab and the USDA Northern Forests Climate Hub (NFCH) and Northern Institute of Applied Climate Science (NIACS). The position will be working across the Great Lakes Region with field visits that span within state travel in Minnesota and across the region to New York State. Virtual of flexible work arrangements is possible approximately 25% of the time.

• (40%) St. Paul Campus
• (45%) Remote work at field/research sites
• (15%) Virtual/flexible

Pay Range: $25.97 - $28.50 per hour; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment: 75%-100% Appointment

Position Type: Civil-Service & Non-Faculty Labor Represented Staff

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
• Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

• A resume and cover letter are required for consideration

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

Application review will begin on [7 days from posting date].

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America's Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).