Forest Health Technician

Natural Resource Research Specialists 3

Works with the Climate Resilient Forest Manager and Senior Conservation Science Manager on a variety of forest health survey projects. Will be based at the Watershed Stewardship Center in West Creek Reservation; however, will work at reservations across Cleveland Metroparks.

Responsibilities:

• Participates in a variety of early detection field surveys, and plot-based research projects within and surrounding Cleveland Metroparks properties.
• Identifies trees (hosts) and associated pests/pathogens, including but not limited to hemlock (HWA, EHS), beech (BLD), tree-of-heaven (SLF) and Oak Wilt.
• Records and maintains accurate, well-organized data in written and electronic format
• Assists in control of invasive pests and pathogens using chemical and non-chemical methods
• Safely operates and maintains equipment including but not limited to forest management and measurement tools, portable data collectors, and other related equipment.
• Collects samples (seeds, branch/twig, soil, picture) for testing
• Prepares plant voucher specimens

Expectations:

• Ability to learn standard forest sampling protocols quickly.
• Familiarity with Ohio Flora in particular local trees species.
• Ability to read maps, follow written directions, and navigate through forest and remote locations
• Ability to collect accurate, unbiased information.
• Energy and eagerness for field work and the ability to work independently and in team settings.
• Demonstrated ability to work a flexible schedule as the field work demands.
• Good data entry and management skills, strong skills with Excel preferred
• GIS/GPS familiarity preferred

Hiring for the summer 2025 field season. This is an intermittent position not to exceed 1200 hours.  There is an expection of 40hrs/week during the summer field season with flexibility in fall and winter.