Interested in fire ecology?

Want to work in the Cascade Mountains?

APPLY NOW!

The School of Environmental and Forest Sciences has an opportunity open for a Field Crew Lead (Research Aide 2) this summer.

The Harvey Lab (https://depts.washington.edu/bjhlab/) at the University of Washington is hiring a full time field crew lead to work on research projects in forests of the Cascade Mountains during summer 2026. We are looking for an individual with experience in forest and fire ecology, and who is adaptable, detail-oriented, able to follow protocols, enjoys working as part of a team outdoors in variable conditions, and can live cooperatively with others. Field crew members are critical to our team and are essential to advancing research projects!

The field crew leads will be involved in one or more research projects, which are collaborations between the Harvey Lab, the Washington DNR, Tulalip Tribes, UW Climate Impacts Group, US Forest Service and National Park Service, working on post-fire vegetation and fuels measurements in recently burned and/or treated forests.

We acknowledge our work in the PNW is located on homelands of Indigenous peoples, and we have a responsibility to reflect on the histories of dispossession and forced removal of the original inhabitants, as well as the resilience and vibrancy of their cultures today.

DUTIES: Field crew leads will lead field assistants collecting data on forest structure and composition. Tasks will involve:

navigating variable terrain to forest plots using maps and GPS; (b) identifying plant species; (c) tagging, measuring, and mapping trees; (d) assessing tree mortality and regeneration; and (e) measuring fuels and carbon

LOGISTICS: Work schedule will be variable based on conditions and location, but generally involve 4-8-day stints in the field. Lodging will consist of camping with potential for occasional field housing (not guaranteed). Camping gear (e.g., tents, sleeping pads) will be available for anyone who needs it. Lodging is not provided on off-days unless remaining in the field (i.e., not returning to Seattle).

Minimum Requirements

Bachelor’s Degree with major study in Science or Engineering OR

• 2 years of college credits with major study in science or engineering and 2 years work experience equivalent to a research aide OR
• 4 years work experience equivalent to a research aide

Position Requirements

• Commitment to a safe work environment
• PNW plant identification
• Experience with detailed data collection protocols
• Ability to adapt to changing schedules & conditions
• Experience working in a field team and living cooperatively with others

Conditions Of Employment

• Valid driver’s license
• Willingness to work full days in variable weather and terrain, prioritizing safety
• Willingness to lodge in mobile, group campsite settings under rugged outdoor conditions

Desirable Skills / Opportunities To Gain Experience

Outdoor fieldwork, data collection, and research experience with multiple collaborators

• Characterizing forest structure and burn severity
• Tree tagging, measuring, and mapping
• Operating a variety of forestry tools and equipment

DURATION: June 15 to September 30