The Cal Poly Humboldt Wildland Fire Lab is seeking motivated and curious field assistants to work on a research project investigating fuel dynamics and ecological resilience in the years following high severity fire in the Klamath Mountains. Duties will include hiking off-trail for moderate distances across steep and rugged terrain while carrying all necessary field equipment (~30lbs); collecting a variety of wildland fuels and vegetation measurements; managing data; and other associated tasks. Work will often take place on steep, exposed hillslopes, with an abundance of standing dead and downed trees, and dense vegetation. It is strongly recommended that applicants have previous experience safely navigating such conditions. Travel expenses and a rental vehicle will be provided. These positions will be based out of Arcata, CA, with overnight camping in the Klamath Mountains occurring Monday-Thursday during the field season. Training will be provided.

Required Qualifications:

Valid driver’s license and ability to complete defensive driver training Previous coursework or experience in Forestry, Ecology or a related field Ability to navigate off-trail using paper maps and GPS
Applicable field experience outside of the classroom (volunteer or paid) Research interest in forestry, ecology, botany or a related field

Ability to work well with others in challenging field conditions for extended periods

Preferred Qualifications:

Wilderness First Aid or other related medical training
Experience with operating 4 wheel drive vehicles in remote, mountainous areas Experience exercising situational awareness in hazardous wildland settings Current student or recent graduate from forestry, fire or related field
Prior experience identifying shrub and tree species in Northwestern California Previous camping experience

TO APPLY:

Email: Jeff Kane (jkane@humboldt.edu) and Joe Nicholas (jrn22@humboldt.edu)
PDF or Word Document(s) containing:
1) RESUME (include your contact info., coursework, experience, three professional references) 2) LETTER OF INTEREST
3) TRANSCRIPTS (unofficial)

Salary: $17-$18 per hour

Duration: ~12 wk. (May-Aug) 

Location: Arcata, CA

Application Deadline: Feb 1, 2024