Overview
Position Details
Department Forest Ecosyst & Society (FOR)
Classification Title Temp Bio Science Research Tech 2
Job Title Temporary Biological Science Research Technician 2
Appointment Type Temporary Staff
Job Location Montana
Benefits Eligible Not benefits eligible
Remote or Hybrid option?
Employment Category Temporary
Job Summary
This recruitment will be used to fill one full-time Temporary Biological Sciences Research Technician 2 position for the Department of Forest Ecosystems and Society at Oregon State University ( OSU ). This position will be located in North-Central Montana. This position exists to support the project PI and Co-PI, and any Bio Science Tech’s and graduate students on the FBIC / BLM Grassland Restoration Project with all aspects of Traditional Ecological Knowledge ( TEK ), including logistics, data collection, and outreach on the Fort Belknap Indian Reservation and surrounding Federal lands. This position utilizes technical skills and knowledge to conduct field work in support of these efforts.
Locations Oregon State has a statewide presence with campuses in Corvallis and Bend, the OSU Portland Center and the Hatfield Marine Science Center on the Pacific Coast in Newport. OSU’s main campus is in Corvallis.
Why OSU?
Oregon State University is a dynamic community of dreamers, doers, problem-solvers and change-makers. We welcome students, faculty and staff from every background and perspective into a community where everyone feels seen and heard. We have mindfulness for the natural world and all who depend on it, and we apply knowledge, tools and skills to build a better future for all.
Total Rewards Package Oregon State University offers a comprehensive benefits package with benefits eligible positions including medical/dental/vision, retirement savings, paid leave, tuition reduction for you/qualifying dependents, and work-life resources. Optional lifestyle benefits such as pet, accident, and critical illness insurance are available.
Key Responsibilities
1. 90% Assist fieldwork data collection, working on BLM land and Tribal land in Montana. Collect Assessment Inventory and Monitoring (AIM) data per BLM protocols by establishing plots on BLM and Tribal lands and conducting data collection on cover type, percent bare mineral soil, flora present by species, culturally significant species, canopy percent and height, plant/forest community composition (including DBH and height of trees), and identification by species. Conduct biodiversity assessment of all plant species present (forb, herbs, shrubs, trees). Collect soil samples from within plots. Make seed collections using Seeds of Success protocols to be sent to the Federal Seed Repository for restoration of Tribal and Federal lands. Collect and press herbarium samples for shipment to the Smithsonian Institute herbarium and other herbaria.
2. 10% Administrative Work: Assist field crew leader with storing soil samples and botany specimens as needed. Support project leaders in identifying species not identified in the field. Support crew leader with provisioning the crew with food and supplies.
What We Require
Two years of college-level courses in (specific field of biological science) and one year of experience related to the area of assignment at the Biological Research Technician 1 level; OR an equivalent combination of training and experience.
What You Will Need
Two years of college-level courses in natural resources, botany, soil science, or related field and one year of experience related to the area of assignment at the Biological Research Technician 1 level; OR an equivalent combination of training and experience.
* Experience performing fieldwork in rough terrain
* Ability to help maintain a safe work environment while in the field
* Strong attention to details
* Strong ability to follow instructions well
* Emerging leadership and management skills
* Cultural humility
* Awareness of and respect for Native American cultures and their values.
* Awareness of Indigenous Knowledge, including ethnobotany (ecology and uses of plants that are culturally significant to Tribal Nations), use of cultural burning, and traditional land uses.
* Demonstrated ability to serve as an Ally to Indigenous Peoples, including helping build relationships across cultures and modeling cultural awareness and competency in work with Indigenous Peoples.
This position requires driving a university vehicle or a personal vehicle on behalf of the university; therefore, the incumbent must successfully complete a motor vehicle history check, possess and maintain a current, valid driver’s license in their state of residence, be determined to be position qualified and self-report convictions as per University Policy 05-030.
What We Would Like You To Have
* Prior experience working in Tribal communities
* Experience collecting botany, seed, and/or soils data in the field
* Strong time-management, communication, problem-solving skills, and critical thinking skills.
Working Conditions / Work Schedule
Work is conducted June through September in Montana on BLM and Tribal Lands. May include work in the evenings or on weekends. Fieldwork will require extended periods of standing, traversing uneven/rugged terrain, lifting up to 40 lbs., and working in heat and/or cold (e.g. 90 to 105 degrees F; -20 to 32 degrees F).
Pay Method: Hourly
Pay Period 16th - 15th of the following month
Pay Date Last working day of the month
Min Salary $18.06
Max Salary $26.20
Link To Position Description https://jobs.oregonstate.edu/position_descriptions/178791
Posting Detail Information
Posting Number P05606CT
Number of Vacancies 2
Anticipated Appointment Begin Date 06/11/2026
Anticipated Appointment End Date 09/11/2026
Posting Date 04/03/2026
Closing Date 05/08/2026
Special Instructions to Applicants
The closing date has been extended to expand the original applicant pool. Applications will be reviewed based on the information submitted on the employment profile with education and work history along with any other requested documentation (e.g., posting specific question responses, transcripts). Your profile MUST clearly show how you meet the minimum/required qualifications. Resumes are NOT accepted at the application stage. Cover letters are optional and will not be used for evaluating your qualifications. Transcripts must be submitted for all required courses from accredited institutions. If you have trouble uploading transcripts, contact the provided recruiter.
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