2026 Fire Lab Field and Lab Manager

Job Type: Full-time, on-site, temporary

Location: Cal Poly Humboldt Wildland Fire Lab - Arcata, California

Salary: $20-$22/hour

Application Deadline: Review of applications will begin Feb 12th although the application period will be open until positions are filled

Assist with project logistics for Cal Poly Humboldt Wildland Fire Lab on fire ecology and management projects

We are looking for a detail-oriented and organized field and lab managers to coordinate Cal Poly Humboldt Wildland Fire Lab with logistics for a number of research projects investigating fuels and forest characteristics in old-growth redwood forests, ponderosa pine forests, and black oak woodlands. Work will entail purchasing and coordinating access to field equipment, facilitating field access and logistics, managing and submitting travel and purchase reimbursement documents, processing field samples, managing and entering data, and assisting with field and lab data collection when needed. This position will be based out of Arcata, CA with possible occasional travel to field sites to assist with project work. 

Salary and Duration

  •  $20-22 per hour (depending on experience) for ~12-16 weeks (May-Sept/Oct)

Required Qualifications 

Strong candidates for the position will have the following: 

  •  Previous coursework in Forestry, Fire Management, Ecology, or a related field

  •  Prior field and lab experience (1-2 seasons or more) working on forestry, fire, or related projects

  • Ability to manage, enter, and organize data and associated files 

  • Organized, reliable, and detail-oriented

  • Positive attitude and ability to communicate instructions clearly and effectively with others

Preferred Qualifications 

  • Grade point average of 3.0 or greater on a 4.0 scale (if applicable)

  • Demonstrated experience working with and managing data

  • Prior experience with data collection in Forestry, Forestry, Fire, Ecology, or a related field

  • Ability to take initiative and work independently following training and guidance

  • Strong interest or experience analyzing data and working towards publishing research

HOW TO APPLY 

To apply, send (as a PDF or Word Document): 1) a resume (including GPA and complete contact information); 2) a brief letter of interest (clearly state position applying for, relevant education, experience, and interest in the position); 3) unofficial transcripts, and 4) the names and contact information of three references in one email to Jeff Kane (jkane@humboldt.edu).Incomplete applications may not be considered. Review of applications will begin Feb 12th although the application period will be open until positions are filled.

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