2026 FIELD CREW POSITIONS

The lab of Dr. Hugh Safford at UC Davis is looking to hire crew members for a seasonal field team to collect data on the effects of vegetation management/fuel reduction and wildfire on forest vegetation, fuels, plant diversity, and other pertinent variables over periods of 5-25 years since sites were affected by wildfire. 

This work will support management efforts by the US Forest Service Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit (LTBMU) and the California Tahoe Conservancy.

The people hired will be part of 3- to 5-person team (1 crew leader and 2-4 crew members) that will establish monitoring plots and collect post-management and -wildfire data using a modified version of the US Forest Service Common Stand Exam.

Work will largely be in the field, with some lab-based work possible toward the end of the project. At least one of the crew members should have a background in botany or dendrology.

For more information about the project, contact Helene Le Gall at [email protected] 

EXPECTED EMPLOYMENT PERIOD AND START DATE

Approximately 800-900 hours (4.5 months), starting  June 15th and ending in late October or early November. Potential for short-term extension for one crew members to help with data processing.

JOB DESCRIPTION

• Navigate to, establish, and monitor vegetation plots using different methodologies including the US Forest Service Common Stand Exam, in areas that have been managed for fuel reduction and/or burned by wildfire (15%)
• Identify plant species and carry out measurements of vegetation stand structure, including characterizing vegetation, fuel loading, tree density, basal area, canopy cover, landscape condition, etc. (75%)
• Conduct other tasks (10%), such as data entry and quality control, species identification, and gear cleaning/repair

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience in identifying trees, shrubs, and grasses.
• Experience in vegetation sampling techniques
• Experience in hiking and carrying heavy packs
• Experience in the use of maps, compasses, and GPS units for location and travel
• Knowledge/experience in ecology, forestry, botany, range science, or related natural sciences
• Knowledge/experience with spreadsheet software and mobile apps for data entry purposes
• Wilderness First Aid certified (may be completed after job offer, with registration paid by UCD)
• Basic Drive License (Class C) 
• Enthusiasm!

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Knowledge/experience in the use of Arena Open Foris or similar data collection apps. 
• Familiarity with California flora & ability to identify plants to species-level with a dichotomous key
• Ability to maintain a positive attitude in physically demanding and/or uncomfortable field conditions

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Ability to hike 5+ miles per day with a heavy pack through difficult and steep terrain, usually without trails, and often in areas burned by wildfire
• Ability to work in hot and dry as well as cold and wet conditions

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Field methods, equipment, and safety training will be provided. Crews may be housed or may camp, with housing and campsites paid for by the employer. Some camping will be in unofficial, “dispersed” sites on public lands. Campsites may change periodically. Crew usually works tours of eight 10-hr days followed by six days off. The crew may be provided with a vehicle, but crew members are responsible for their own transportation to and from the duty station (South Lake Tahoe) at the beginning and end of each tour. Working conditions will be physically difficult.

COMPENSATION

Crew members earn $25.81-26.94/hr* plus limited benefits.
*Based on experience & credentials

Positions are for immediate consideration, and applications will be accepted until the positions are filled.

TO APPLY

Send CV, cover letter, and contact information for 3 references to Helene Le Gall at [email protected]