Forest Vegetation Inventory Technician (Seasonal)

Position Details

Position Information
Recruitment/Posting Title
Forest Vegetation Inventory Technician (Seasonal)

Posting Number
26TM0261

Department
Agriculture & Natural Resource

Overview
The School of Environmental and Biological Sciences, located on the George H. Cook Campus, is one of the largest schools of Rutgers University in New Brunswick, New Jersey. We pursue excellence in research, teaching, and outreach in areas of study that address the biological spectrum from molecules to ecosystems. Our emphasis is on both the fundamental sciences and the social and human dimensions. We offer 21 undergraduate majors, including plant and animal sciences, microbiology, biotechnology, agriculture and food systems, landscape architecture, food and nutritional sciences, ecology and evolution, marine science and oceanography, environmental sciences and meteorology, human ecology, entomology, and environmental economics.

In addition to instruction in the classroom, field, and laboratory, our students have opportunities for experiential learning on and off campus, including a growing emphasis on international experiences through short- and long-term study abroad. Students also have access to a robust program of applied research and outreach hosted by the New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station laboratories, farms, business incubators, and marine stations throughout the state.

Posting Summary
Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey is seeking a Forest Vegetation Inventory Technician (Seasonal) for the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences.

Among the key duties of the position are the following:

• Performs forest assessment and data collection in each layer of vegetation including the tree canopy layer, shrub layer and herbaceous layer.
• Hikes to plot sites within Morristown National Historical Park.
• Sets up subplot boundaries, collect and record data using custom data collection sheets.
• Clears site and hikes to next location.
• Completes digital data entry work that may be offered on rain days.

FLSA
Nonexempt

Salary Details
$19 per hour

Offer Information
The final salary offer may be determined by several factors, including, but not limited to, the candidate's qualifications, experience, and expertise, and availability of department or grant funds to support the position. We also take into consideration market benchmarks, if and when appropriate, and internal equity to ensure fair compensation relative to the university's broader compensation structure. We are committed to offering competitive and flexible compensation packages to attract and retain top talent.

Benefits
Rutgers provides a comprehensive benefits package to eligible employees. The specific benefits vary based on the position and may include:

• Medical, prescription drug, and dental coverage
• Paid vacation, holidays, and various leave programs
• Competitive retirement benefits, including defined contribution plans and voluntary tax-deferred savings options
• Employee and dependent educational benefits (when applicable)
• Life insurance coverage
• Employee discount programs

Position Status
Full Time

Working Hours
Up to 40 hours per week

Daily Work Shift
Day

Work Arrangement
This position requires a fully on-site work arrangement.

Payroll Designation
PeopleSoft

Terms of Appointment
Temporary Staff Appointment - Hourly

Qualifications
Minimum Education and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in a scientific/technical discipline, or an equivalent combination of education and/or relevant laboratory technician or research study experience carrying out research protocols and tests, or other technical work may be substituted for the degree.

Certifications/Licenses

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of Northern NJ forest plant and tree identification.
• Ability to work cooperatively within a team.
• Attention to detail and accuracy in recording data.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with beech leaf disease identification and evaluation of progression.
• Experience with forest vegetation assessment by vertical strata, data collection and recording of data.

Equipment Utilized

• Compass, GPS Unit, Measuring Implements, light meter.

Physical Demands and Work Environment

• Ability to hike 2 - 4 miles on and off trail, in summer weather carrying supplies and equipment.
• Flexible with work schedule and hours based on weather conditions.

Special Conditions

Posting Details
Posting Open Date
06/15/2026

Posting Close Date
06/24/2026

Open Until Filled
No

Special Instructions to Applicants

Regional Campus
Rutgers University-New Brunswick

Home Location Campus
Off Campus

City
Morristown

State
NJ

Location Details

Pre-employment Screenings
All offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of all pre-employment screenings.

Immunization Requirements

Under Policy 100.3.1 Immunization Policy for Covered Individuals, if employment will commence during Flu Season, Rutgers University may require certain prospective employees to provide proof that they are vaccinated against Seasonal Influenza for the current Flu Season, unless the University has granted the individual a medical or religious exemption. Additional infection control and safety policies may apply. Prospective employees should speak with their hiring manager to determine which policies apply to the role or position for which they are applying. Failure to provide proof of vaccination for any required vaccines or obtain a medical or religious exemption from the University will result in rescission of a candidate's offer of employment or disciplinary action up to and including termination.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
It is university policy to provide equal employment opportunity to all its employees and applicants for employment regardless of their race, creed, color, national origin, age, ancestry, nationality, marital or domestic partnership or civil union status, sex, pregnancy, gender identity or expression, disability status, liability for military service, protected veteran status, affectional or sexual orientation, atypical cellular or blood trait, genetic information (including the refusal to submit to genetic testing), or any other category protected by law. As an institution, we encourage all qualified applicants to apply. For additional information please see the Non-Discrimination Statement at the following web address: