Tree Breeding Specialist Resource Assistant – The Corps Network (2024)

The Resource Assistant Program is a rigorous and immersive paid internship for individuals interested in Forest Service careers. Resource Assistants (RAs) work with Forest Service staff to complete mission-critical work that demonstrates leadership, critical thinking, and strategic communication. Through direct training, experience, and exposure, RAs gain the tools to launch their natural and cultural resource careers.

Through a partnership with Northwest Youth Corps, the selected Resource Assistant will support the Port-Orford-cedar disease resistance program at Dorena Genetic Resource Center. The selectee will assist with daily operations of a high throughput containerized tree improvement program focused on developing resistance to the non-native pathogen Phytophthora lateralis. This is an immersive professional internship that requires a skillful and confident applicant who can manage a busy workload and learning opportunities with the support of the program coordinator and nursery staff. This position will perform work at the equivalent of a GS-6/7 position in the federal service. Visit https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/pay-leave/pay-systems/general-schedule/ for more information.

• Maintains orchard by monitoring tree health, pruning, repotting, and fertilizing trees.
• Conducts propagation of large numbers of trees through cross­pollination, seeding, rooting, and grafting techniques.
• Assists with seed extraction efforts using mechanical and hand-processing techniques.
• Participates in tree breeding process by surveying for cone and seed crops, collecting cones or seeds, isolating female flowers to control pollination, and collecting pollen.
• Monitors for insect and disease infestations and coordinates appropriate response.
• Inputs, validates, and organizes detailed plant inventory and accession records.
• Uses personal computers, software packages, and techniques for data collection, data storage, and researching information to support work.
• Independently organizes work efforts with other technicians and managers who are involved with relevant projects. Communicates work plans and outcomes effectively with program coordinator.