POSITION DATES: May 25 – August 14th (Limited Term)

There is potential for a slightly earlier start and later end date, depending upon funding and candidate interest.

OVERVIEW: The University of California Cooperative Extension, Santa Cruz Mountains Forests Program, in partnership with the Natural Resource Ecology Laboratory at Colorado State University, is hiring two forest research technicians for the Summer of 2026. The technicians will support an exciting ecology and forestry research project in coast redwood forests of the Soquel Demonstration State Forest.

Technicians will have the unique opportunity to be exposed to standard forest measurements in combination with gaining exposure to new technology used in forest inventories and research, including terrestrial lidar. This position is ideal for individuals interested in forest ecology, applied forestry, wildfire resilience, and hands-on field research in coast redwood systems.

Primary Responsibilities

• Support terrestrial lidar data collection in forest plots
• Collect forest inventory data in coast redwood forests, including tree diameter, height, species composition, regeneration, vegetation, etc.
• Assist with establishment and measurement of permanent forest monitoring plots
• Navigate to field sites using GPS and maps
• Accurately record data using digital field forms and tablets
• Hike steep terrain while carrying field equipment
• Work safely and effectively in variable weather conditions
• Assist with basic equipment maintenance and organization

Required Qualifications

• Ability to work long days in rugged terrain and dense forest conditions with a positive attitude
• Education (completed or in progress) in forestry, ecology, environmental science, natural resources, or a related field
• Comfort working outdoors for extended periods in remote locations
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow standardized protocols
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a small field crew
• Valid driver’s license

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous field experience in forest or ecological research
• Familiarity with forest inventory methods
• Experience using GPS units, tablets, or digital data collection platforms
• Interest in forest management, wildfire ecology, or carbon dynamics
• Experience working in coast redwood or mixed conifer forests

Work Environment

This position is 100% field-based and involves hiking off-trail, working on uneven terrain, and carrying field equipment. Work will take place primarily in coast redwood forests within the Soquel Demonstration State Forest and surrounding areas in the Santa Cruz Mountains. Occasional camping may be required.