Research Associate #605078

Job Description

The Ecological Restoration Institute (ERI) at Northern Arizona University (NAU) is seeking to fill a position for a Research Associate who will implement the ERI’s forest operations and biomass utilization projects in accordance with the ERI and NAU strategic plans and annual work plans set out by the organization. The successful candidate will work collaboratively to develop a Forest Operations Training Center, manage new and ongoing research activities, and assist in the development of forest products industry and innovation strategies for forest restoration operations. S/he will work within the guidelines, policies, and mission of the ERI and NAU.
The ideal candidate would start in November 2020.

Duties and responsibilities include:

Development of Forest Operations Training Center

Establishing formal collaboration with key partners such as Coconino County, Coconino Community College, USDA Forest Service, Department of Defense, and equipment manufacturers.
With those partners, preparing a work plan for a Forest Operations Training Center in Northern Arizona.
Developing training programs and curricula for the three training streams envisioned for the Forest Operations Training Center: forestry machine operators, truck drivers, and heavy equipment repair & maintenance professionals.
Coordinating the planning and implementation efforts for the Forest Operations Training Center programs.
Identifying and pursuing funding sources for the Forest Operations Training Center in collaboration with key partners.

Research & Development

In conjunction with other ERI staff, planning and designing new research projects, establishing priorities, and recommending work schedules and costs. These projects should relate to the efficiency and efficacy of forest restoration in the Southwestern United States.
Performing complex statistical analyses, which includes selecting appropriate analysis procedures, setting up data for analysis, and producing written reports and journal articles on the analysis results.
Presenting project results to internal and external parties at professional conferences, seminars, and workshops.
Liaising with other NAU departments and off-campus stakeholders and partners to ensure project success.
For more information on the Ecological Restoration Institute, please visit https://nau.edu/ERI/.

Minimum Qualifications

Master’s degree in Forest Operations and three years of directly-related work experience in managing mechanical fuels treatments and forest restoration thinning projects on public and private forestlands or other experience pertinent to this position.

Preferred Qualifications

PhD in Forest Operations or related field and work experience in operations logistics and forest products business development.
Teaching and management experience in post-secondary educational programs would be an asset to this position.

How to Apply

To apply for this position, please click on the "Apply" button on this page. You must submit your application by clicking on the "Submit" button by midnight of the application deadline. If you need assistance completing your application there are instructions available on the Human Resources website or in person in the Human Resources Department located in Building 91 on the NAU Campus - on the corner of Beaver and DuPont Streets.

If you are an individual with a disability and need reasonable accommodation to participate in the hiring process please contact the Office of Equity and Access at: 928-523-3312/TDD - 928-523-1006 or PO Box 4083, Flagstaff AZ 86011.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Northern Arizona University is a committed Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Institution. Women, minorities, veterans and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply. NAU is responsive to the needs of dual career couples.