Director of the OSU Research Forests & Assistant/Associate/Full Professor (Practice): Silviculture Extension Specialist

Director of the OSU Research Forests & Assistant/Associate/Full Professor (Practice): Silviculture Extension Specialist

Oregon State University

Department: College Forests (FOR)

Appointment Type: Professional Faculty

Job Location: Corvallis

Recommended Full-Time Salary Range: $105,000 - $155,000

Job Summary:

The College of Forestry (CoF) at Oregon State University (OSU ) invites applications for a full-time (1.00 FTE ), 12-month, combination position as Director of OSU Research Forests & Assistant/Associate/Full Professor (Practice): Silviculture Extension Specialist, reflecting duties in both academic and administrative areas.

The Director of OSU Research Forests position is a part-time (0.50 FTE ) 12-month professional faculty position and the Assistant/Associate/Full Professor (Practice) position is a part-time (0.50 FTE ), 12-month, fixed-term academic faculty position, with an academic home in the Department of Forest Engineering, Resources, and Management.

Appointment at the Assistant Professor rank is anticipated; however, higher rank may be considered depending upon the qualifications of the successful candidate.

We are also recruiting for a similar Silviculturist position as https://jobs.oregonstate.edu/postings/176263. If qualified, please apply.

The Oregon State University College of Forestry’s Research and Demonstration Forests comprise 18,000 acres across ten tracts statewide, serving as living laboratories for education, research, and sustainable forest management.

The Director of the OSU Research Forests provides strategic leadership and operational oversight of these working landscapes, which actively support multiple values including education, biodiversity, recreation, wildlife habitat, carbon sequestration, and forest health, while providing forest products. The Director collaborates with eight Research Forest staff to implement forest plans, advance research initiatives, strengthen community relations, and demonstrates that public access can coexist with research, education, and sustainable forest management.

This position requires balancing strategic planning with operational execution across four primary areas: community engagement, research oversight, forest plan implementation, and organizational leadership. The Director ensures compliance with federal and state regulations, has oversight of the research forest budget to meet economic, ecological, and social sustainability goals, and directly supervises the Associate Director of Operations and Recreation and Engagement Program Manager.

As a Silviculture Extension Specialist, this position will assess and address silviculture outreach and research needs for a variety of audiences and stakeholders including private forest owners, natural resource professionals, industrial and agency owners and managers, and policy makers. They are responsible for Extension programming, research and scholarly outputs, service, and functioning as a connector between Extension faculty and the Research Forests.

Commitment to inclusive excellence: Oregon State University is committed to creating and maintaining compassionate and inclusive learning and working environments for all learners, visitors and employees. We envision collaborative community environments that enhance civility and embrace diversity. All employees are responsible for achieving this commitment. This commitment includes, but is not limited to, complying with Civil Rights and Language Access regulations. In addition, this individual will design, develop, maintain and/or carry out Extension programs to ensure that educational programs and outreach activities serve diverse populations, including those that have been historically marginalized/excluded from participation.

Why OSU?

Working for Oregon State University is so much more than a job!

Oregon State University is a dynamic community of dreamers, doers, problem-solvers and change-makers. We don’t wait for challenges to present themselves — we seek them out and take them on. We welcome students, faculty and staff from every background and perspective into a community where everyone feels seen and heard. We have deep-rooted mindfulness for the natural world and all who depend on it, and together, we apply knowledge, tools and skills to build a better future for all.

FACTS :

• Top 1.4% university in the world

• More research funding than all public universities in Oregon combined

• 1 of 3 land, sea, space and sun grant universities in the U.S.

• 2 campuses, 11 colleges, 12 experiment stations, and Extension programs in all 36 counties

• 7 https://hr.oregonstate.edu/work-life/diversity-and-cultural-resources that offer education, celebration and belonging for everyone

• 100+ undergraduate degree programs, 80+ graduate degrees plus hundreds of minor options and certificates

• 35k+ students including more than 2.3k international students and 10k students of color

• 217k+ alumni worldwide

• For more interesting facts about OSU visit: https://oregonstate.edu/about

Locations:

Oregon State has a statewide presence with campuses in Corvallis and Bend, the OSU Portland Center and the Hatfield Marine Science Center on the Pacific Coast in Newport.

Oregon State’s beautiful, historic and state-of-the-art main campus is located in one of America’s best college towns. Corvallis is located close to the Pacific Ocean, the Cascade mountains and Oregon wine country. Nestled in the heart of the Willamette Valley, this beautiful city offers miles of mountain biking and hiking trails, a river perfect for boating or kayaking and an eclectic downtown featuring local cuisine, popular events and performances.

Total Rewards Package:

Oregon State University offers a https://hr.oregonstate.edu/benefits/prospective-employee with benefits eligible positions that is designed to meet the needs of employees and their families including:

• Medical, Dental, Vision and Basic Life. OSU pays 95% of premiums for you and your eligible dependents.

• Free confidential mental health and emotional support services, and counseling resources.

• Retirement savings paid by the university.

• A generous paid leave package, including holidays, vacation and sick leave.

• Tuition reduction benefits for you or your qualifying dependents at OSU or the additional six Oregon Public Universities.

• Robust Work Life programs including Dual Career assistance resources, flexible work arrangements, a Family Resource Center, Affinity Groups and an Employee Assistance Program.

• Optional lifestyle benefits such as pet, accident, and critical illness insurance, giving you peace of mind and the support you need to thrive in all aspects of your life.

Oregon State University is deeply committed to the principles of a Health Promoting University. This commitment drives a collaborative approach across OSU’s safety and well-being programs, reducing silos and coordinating efforts to enhance employee safety and well-being. By prioritizing resources that support the health of both employees and students, OSU fosters a culture of care and a healthier campus environment where everyone can thrive.

https://bestplace4workingparents.com/policies/

Future and current OSU employees can use the https://hr.oregonstate.edu/benefits/new-employees/benefits-calculator to learn more about the full value of the benefits provided at OSU .

Key Responsibilities

Director of the OSU Research Forests

COMMUNITY RELATIONS – 20% · Develop and implement programs that advance public understanding of the educational, research, recreational, and management activities occurring on the forests. · Anticipate the impact of forest management activities on recreation use, interface with user groups to increase understanding of access limitations and create learning opportunities about active forest management. · Maintain and enhance relations with Tribal Nations, community partners, agencies, organizations, and industry representatives. · Be responsive to community questions, concerns, and requests for information. · Review, comment, and provide testimony on nearby land use actions that may affect the Research Forests. RESEARCH OVERSIGHT – 10% · Engage in strategic planning for research and demonstration across all properties. · Engage with faculty, staff, and students to design and carry out research on the forests. · Ensure continuity of long-term research projects. · Ensure research is documented and showcased to advance understanding of research activities and impact. · Foster strategic use of satellite forests for research and demonstration by Extension faculty.

FOREST PLAN IMPLEMENTATION – 10% · Provide oversight of implementation of forest plans. · Maintain and regularly convene meetings of the technical advisory group to monitor execution of the forest plan. · Monitor progress on management plan: collect data, write reports, and document compliance. · Review, modify, approve timber harvest plan and associated closures. · Ensure annual appraisals are conducted for the three forest tracts for which this is mandated.

LEADERSHIP – 10% · Ensure fiscal viability by developing an annual budget and overseeing revenue-generating enterprises. · Provide leadership, mentorship and team development for the Research Forest staff. · Directly supervise the Associate Director of Operations and Recreation and Engagement Program Manager. · Support onboarding and training for new employees and student workers. · Facilitate discussions of topics associated with professional development, access, and inclusion within staff meetings. · Practice a welcoming and respectful workplace environment. · Participate in activities associated with the collective good of the forests (e.g., prescribed burning, herbicide applications, Get Outdoors Day, implementation of forest closures due to fire).

Silviculture Extension Specialist

EXTENSION PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT , IMPLEMENTATION , AND MANAGEMENT – 40% · Serve as statewide Extension Specialist in Silviculture, covering all aspects of managing natural and plantation forests for timber, forest ecology, and other associated ecosystem values. Track trends, initiatives, and developments in silviculture science and forest management approaches, and integrate pertinent information into educational programs and partnerships. · Assess priority needs, assets, and opportunities within target audiences. Methods may include combinations of focus groups, interviews, surveys, evaluation of secondary data, sensing and listening, attending local and regional meetings, and other techniques purposefully implemented to understand conditions and design responsive programming. · Develop an annual plan of work that addresses educational needs and evaluates the quality and impact of educational programs provided to audiences. · Educational programming should include multiple means tailored to meet clientele needs. This can include classes, workshops, short courses, seminars, forest tours, experiential learning, webinars, web-based instructional modules, videos, etc. · Develop educational materials such as Extension bulletins, magazine and newsletter articles, websites, blogs, videos, podcasts, and other social or mass media content. · Develop culturally inclusive and socially cognizant marketing/promotional materials that ensure communication to a broad and diverse audience utilizing appropriate tools (digital and print assets, video, press releases, social media). · Develop applied demonstration areas on Research Forests or other appropriate sites to use in educational programs. · Contribute to FNR Extension program core curriculum and recurring programs (e.g., Master Woodland Manager, Tree Schools), and respond to relevant “Ask Extension” inquiries. · Provide local opinion leaders and decision makers with understanding and context of how the FNR Extension program relates to overall Extension programming in Oregon. · Create accessible and inclusive environments that make space for a range of learner needs and provide reasonable accommodations. · Supervise undergraduate and graduate students, research assistants, and/or professional faculty as needed for Extension non-credit programmatic and research needs. This may include but is not limited to supervision of students engaged in research and/or forestry course work or related activities and supervision of unpaid and paid positions that could cover student employees, technicians, research assistants, teaching assistants, and/or scholars.

APPLIED RESEARCH AND SCHOLARLY OUTCOMES – 5% Develop and implement an applied research program in silviculture and related forest management to address critical needs of forest owners and managers. Conduct applied research to better inform practices or to assess impacts. Examples of applied research include field trials and experiments, social science studies that inform effective processes and partnerships, demonstration projects, and examination of program outcomes. Utilize OSU Research Forests, other appropriate field sites, and collaborate with campus-based faculty and other collaborators within the university, as well as government agencies and non-profits involved in applied research. Research should serve to connect the Extension Program with the Research Forests when possible. Seek and secure contract and grant funds to support scholarly efforts. Scholarly and creative work is intellectual work whose significance is validated by peers and that is communicated. Emphasis in scholarship should be placed on outcomes that recognize activities as a professional practitioner in community settings as defined by the incumbent’s position description. Appropriate types of scholarship for this position include, but are not limited to: · Publications in peer-reviewed journals which might encompass description and evaluation of novel community-based professional practice or research application, program development and innovation, outcomes of innovative programs and/or services, definitive professional practice reviews, or case reports, among others. · Authorship of Extension publications, local or regional “practice” publications, book chapters, other educational materials and digital information delivery media if it is either peer reviewed before dissemination or if there is evidence of its adoption and use by peers. To achieve promotion, there must be an on-going record that both of these types of scholarship are being done though each does not need to be present in every year of record. Documentation must also be provided that shows these scholarly outputs have had impact. These durable, web-findable materials may be augmented by other forms of peer validation such as the following: · Invited presentations, poster and podium presentations, and published abstracts and/or proceedings at state, regional and national levels, provided that evidence of peer validation is provided. · Documented impact due to local or regional adoption of improved practices, methods, or programs. · Secured competitive grants and contracts appropriate for the scope and focus of the faculty member’s position. · Named inventor of a protected intellectual property in the faculty member’s field. · Recognition as a professional practitioner in community settings as demonstrated by: o Honorary degrees o Awards recognizing community, professional and/or scientific achievements o Fellowships in national professional and/or scientific organizations o Requests to serve as a technical advisor to government agencies, industry, or professional groups

For more information on the scholarly outcome expectations for this position, please refer to the “”https://academicaffairs.oregonstate.edu/guidelines-professor-practice-appointments-and-promotion">Guidelines for Professors of Practice" contained in the OSU Promotion & Tenure Guidelines. Best practice is to ensure an inclusive scholarship: · Including diverse perspectives on the research team, particularly among co-principal investigators. · Emphasizing diversity to address broadening participation in grant proposals. · Writing articles and books that address issues of diversity/social justice. · Presenting conference papers on issues of diversity/social justice. · Increasing the diversity of students who serve as research assistants.

SERVICE – 5% · Serve on FNR Extension, FERM Department, and University committees as appropriate, participating in Extension group projects and providing disciplinary expertise for relevant statewide Extension programs (e.g., Master Woodland Manager, Tree Schools). · Participate in service to the research discipline through journal and grant review processes, and other activities, as appropriate. · Partake in leadership roles in related professional organizations such as the Society of American Foresters (SAF ) and the Association of Natural Resources Extension Professionals (ANREP ). · Participate in professional development activities annually. Work as a team with other OSU Extension employees in planning, implementing, evaluating, and marketing programs on a statewide basis.

What You Will Need

• Master’s degree in Forestry, Natural Resources, or a closely related field.

• Demonstrated expertise in silviculture and forest ecology.

• Demonstrated ability to lead teams effectively through collaborative decision-making and respectful engagement.

• Experience in financial management and budgeting, including developing budgets, monitoring expenditures, and ensuring fiscal accountability.

• Demonstrated ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders and communities, such as students, private landowners, Tribal Nations, natural resource professionals, industry representatives, agency personnel, and the general public.

• Demonstrated strong interpersonal, written and oral communication skills.

• For individuals seeking the rank of Associate Professor (Practice) or Professor (Practice): Candidate should have a demonstrated record of accomplishment in silviculture and formal or informal instruction that merits appointment as an Associate Professor (Practice) or Professor (Practice), meeting the OSU teaching, advising, scholarship, and service criteria for appointment at the desired rank (see the https://academicaffairs.oregonstate.edu/promotion-tenure/guidelines-professor-practice-appointments-and-promotion for details). OSU will consider previous years of experience at other similar institutions towards timelines for rank promotions.

This position is designated as a critical or security-sensitive position; therefore, the incumbent must successfully complete a criminal history check and be determined to be position qualified as per University Standard: 05-010 et seq. Incumbents are required to self-report convictions and those in youth programs may have additional criminal history checks every 24 months.

This position requires driving a university vehicle or a personal vehicle on behalf of the university; therefore, the incumbent must successfully complete a motor vehicle history check, possess and maintain a current, valid driver’s license in their state of residence, be determined to be position qualified and self-report convictions as per University Policy 05-030.

What We Would Like You to Have

• Knowledge of Pacific Northwest forest ecosystems, silviculture practices, and natural resource management issues.

• Practical experience in forest management that balances multiple values (ecological, economic, recreational, educational) to advance applied science and public engagement.

• Experience developing and delivering educational programs to audiences with varying technical backgrounds.

• Demonstrated capacity to produce scholarly or professional outputs, including peer-reviewed publications, Extension materials, or professional presentations.

• Track record of securing external funding through grants, contracts, or partnerships.

• Demonstrated commitment to creating respectful, safe, and inclusive work and learning environments, including active efforts to engage historically marginalized or underserved communities.

• Ability to communicate effectively with media representatives and respond to public inquiries or concerns about forest management activities.

Working Conditions / Work Schedule

The ability to work in varied fields and weather conditions is required. This includes extensive walking/hiking on uneven ground, steep terrain, and uncomfortable weather conditions (e.g., heat, cold, rain, wind, poison oak, heavy pollen counts). The position requires travel/driving to research sites, workshops, and conference venues. Typical work schedule is Monday – Friday with occasional work on weekends and evenings as required to meet project needs.

Special Instructions to Applicants

To ensure full consideration, applications must be received by February 22, 2026. Applications will continue to be accepted after the full consideration date, until a sufficient applicant pool has been achieved or the position is filled. The closing date is subject to change without notice to applicants.

When applying you will be required to attach the following electronic documents:

1) A Curriculum Vitae; and

2) A cover letter indicating (1) how your qualifications and experience have prepared you for this position; (2) and what excites you about bridging forest management, applied research, and Extension outreach in this dual role, and how you would approach integrating these responsibilities.

You will also be required to submit the names of at least three professional references, their e-mail addresses and telephone numbers as part of the application process.

For additional information please contact:

Jeff Hatten

jeff.hatten@oregonstate.edu

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability, protected veteran, and other protected status.

OSU will conduct a review of the National Sex Offender Public website prior to hire.

Starting salary within the salary range will be commensurate with skills, education, and experience.

OSU is a fair chance employer committed to inclusive hiring. We encourage applications from candidates who bring a wide range of lived experience including involvement with the justice system. This job has “critical or security-sensitive” responsibilities. If you are selected as a finalist, your initial job offer will be contingent upon the results of a job-related pre-employment check (such as a background check, motor vehicle history check, sexual misconduct reference check, etc.). Background check results do not automatically disqualify a candidate. Take a look at our https://hr.oregonstate.edu/careers/background-checks website including the https://hr.oregonstate.edu/careers/candidates section for more details. If you have questions or concerns about the pre-employment check, please contact OSU’s Employee and Labor Relations team at employee.relations@oregonstate.edu.

To apply, please visit: https://apptrkr.com/6864477

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