Forestry Technician at Voyageurs National Park

Seeking applicants for two summer Forestry Technician positions at Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota (stationed at the Ash River area of the park). These positions run from May 18, 2026 to August 20, 2026 (dates are firm) with a compensation of $16.00/hour. 

The incumbents will be employed by the University of Minnesota, but will work directly with, and report to, the Great Lakes Network of the National Park Service Inventory and Monitoring program. The goals of the Inventory and Monitoring program include monitoring key environmental variables so that ecological change can be detected and addressed in a timely manner. The incumbents will assist with sampling vegetation.

These are largely field based positions. The incumbents will assist with the sampling of permanent forest monitoring plots at Voyageurs National Park. Incumbents will collect extensive monitoring data on trees and coarse woody materials, including diameter measurements, species identification, use of Latin names, and assessing tree health. Incumbents will be enrolled in and are expected to pass the Motorboat Operator Certification Course. Field work will be performed in teams of 2 to 3 people. The incumbents may also spend a small amount of time performing computer or other office work.

This position operates on an 8 day on/6 day off schedule. During the 8-day sampling periods, incumbents will travel throughout the park by motorboat, and the position requires some backcountry camping and canoeing. They will be expected to carry field equipment weighing up to 50 lbs. They will be exposed to high temperatures, stinging and biting insects, including mosquitos and ticks, and poisonous plants. Off-trail access to and from plots will be as long as two miles, each direction. 

Seasonal housing will be available at Whispering Pines seasonal housing area, near the Ash River Visitor Center, and is paid for by the incumbent. Housing rates will be discussed during the interview process. Alternative housing in the area is very limited.

To apply, please send a cover letter, detailed resume (no page limit), professional references, and unofficial transcripts to Jessica Kirschbaum (jessica_kirschbaum@nps.gov) by February 8, 2026, or apply through Handshake by February 8, 2026. Include an email address that you check regularly, as well as a phone number. If you are selected for an interview, you will be contacted by email. No phone calls or emails, other than applications, please.