Forest Ecology, Student Research Assistant Job ID #2386

Detailed Job Description

In order to ensure your application is received by NAIT for thorough review and consideration, please apply directly through our Careers site at www.nait.ca/careers

Please Note: This is a temporary position commencing on May 5, 2025, ending on or before August 2025, with the possibility of extension.

Please Note: This posting will be used to fill multiple vacancies.

We are looking for self-motivated and science-minded individuals to join our research team this summer within the Forest Reclamation and Reforestation Team at the Centre for Boreal Research (CBR). This position will assist with the execution of applied research projects across a range of topics including forest reclamation, post-harvest reforestation and forest management research. These positions are largely field-based (80% or more) though activities will include a mix of field work, lab/greenhouse and desk-based work, requiring a variety of skills, independent thinking and strong organizational and interpersonal abilities to work in a fast-paced and busy team setting. These positions require LOTS of walking through diverse terrain and uneven ground; our teams typically walk 5-10 km per day in the field. Positions may also support routine lab and greenhouse activities as well as desk-based work including data entry and organization.

These positions will require relocation to Peace River, Alberta for the duration of the contract. We have 4 and 8 month contracts available and are looking to fill 7 positions.

Key Responsibilities (the relative composition of activities will vary by season):

Assist researchers in the establishment and monitoring of research sites. This will include activities such as: plot layout, seedling planting, soil and vegetation sampling and identification, plant growth and physiological measurements as well as larger tree measurements in forest stands.
Routine plant care in greenhouse setting; preparing fertilizer mixes, watering plants, clean-up of greenhouse space.
Laboratory work such as root washing, weighing biomass and soil samples.
Data entry and assistance with technical reporting.

Skills & Abilities:

Strong attention to detail – collecting scientific data requires mental diligence and the ability to do routine work for several hours or days.
Experience driving 4WD trucks on gravel roads.
Vegetation identification training (and experience).
Be physically fit as this position requires extensive outdoor work on uneven terrain.
Ability to work independently and in a team setting.
Experience operating trailers and all-terrain vehicles (not compulsory).

Qualifications:

Enrolled (or recently graduated) in a diploma or BSc program in Forestry or Biology; college students will be given preference with respect to funding for some of these positions but both college and university students will be considered.
Class 5 license with clean drivers abstract.

Applicants with education credentials earned outside of Canada should have their credentials evaluated by World Education Services or the International Qualifications Assessment Service (IQAS).

Remuneration: $17.48 - $21.69 per hour, plus 12% in lieu of stat holidays and vacation accrual. (Classification – Student Research Assistant I).

Successful candidates will be eligible for a monthly living allowance of $600.00.

This casual opportunity is covered by the Alberta Union of Provincial Employees (AUPE) Collective Agreement

Please submit a resume and cover letter to be considered for this opportunity.

About NAIT

We are proud to have been named one of Alberta’s Top Employers for 13 consecutive years. Being part of a community that makes a difference in the lives of students, staff, industry clients and partners, NAIT’s culture reflects our shared values of respect, collaboration, celebration, creativity, and accountability.

NAIT supports a flexible work environment, enabling staff to request approval for on-campus, off-site, or hybrid work arrangements based on the nature of the role. Please note that remote positions require employees to reside within Canada.

NAIT is committed to fostering an environment that supports equity and cultivates inclusion through our Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Strategy. We are a proud partner of the Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion and Pride at Work Canada. While we encourage all qualified applicants to apply, only those being considered will be contacted. If you require any accommodations, please connect with us at careers@nait.ca.