Welcome to Tall Timbers
Employment Opportunities
Post Doctoral Research Scientist
Area of Specialization: Fire and Forest Ecology
Tall Timbers is recruiting a Post-Doctoral Research Scientist to investigate the patterns and
mechanisms of post-fire tree mortality and fire-vegetation feedbacks in forests, savannas, and grasslands. The incumbent will work with a team including researchers and fire managers with expertise in multiple fire-prone ecosystems. The incumbent will be encouraged to lead independent research related to the broader goals of the team. The position is funded for 18 months, with additional support possible beyond that based on performance and funding availability.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
The candidate will primarily be responsible for designing experiments, collecting data, measuring vegetation and wildland fires, analyzing and modeling data, and writing manuscripts for relevant projects. The position may include other activities, including grant proposal writing, supervision of technician(s) and intern(s), project data management, and other analyses. Collaboration with Tall Timbers research and management staff and other partners is critical for the success of the project.
Minimum Qualifications
A completed Ph.D. degree (ABD- all but dissertation- acceptable) in either forestry, plant ecology, plant physiology, geospatial analysis, fire behavior, climatology, or a related field is required. Candidate should be highly motivated with the ability to work independently. The successful candidate should have skills in two or more of the following: statistical analyses, vegetation analyses, measuring field and laboratory fire behavior, micrometeorology, geospatial analysis, and scientific writing. Valid state driver’s license required.
Preferred Qualifications
Ph.D. in aforementioned fields of study. The candidate should have experience designing and implementing laboratory experiments, as evidenced by publication in peer-reviewed outlets. A strong understanding of fire and savanna or forest ecology of eastern US fire-prone ecosystems or similar is preferred, though not required. Experience with multivariate statistical analyses and familiarity with state-and-transition models is preferred.
Working Conditions and Physical Effort
Ability to perform routine office, field, and some laboratory work in inclement weather and under strenuous conditions in southern climates throughout the calendar year, including occasional long hours and weekends for field campaigns.
Workplace Environment:
Tall Timbers is committed as equal opportunity/affirmative action employer, and does not tolerate discrimination or hate toward any race, ethnicity, culture, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, ability, national origin, veteran status, socioeconomic class, religion, or professional status. We strongly encourage applications from historically underrepresented groups and those that add to and engage the local communities of the region.
Instructions for Applying
Applications should include (in a single PDF): 1) a letter of interest that includes educational and experiential preparation and 2) a current CV. All applications should be emailed to Dr. Morgan Varner (mvarner@talltimbers.org) and Erin Wachter (ewachter@talltimbers.org).
Contact
J. Morgan Varner, Director of Research & Senior Scientist Contact Email: mvarner@talltimbers.org
Applications Reviewed: February 22, 2026 or until a suitable candidate can be found
Position Start Date: Winter/Spring 2026 (negotiable)
Salary: $65,000 (negotiable if housing needed)
Work Location: The position will be based at the main campus of Tall Timbers in Tallahassee, Florida (www.talltimbers.org). Tallahassee is a vibrant community in the Red Hills region, notable for its education (Florida State University, Florida A&M University, and Tallahassee State College), conservation and recreation opportunities, and is the state capital of Florida.
______________________________________________________
Biologist I: Fire Research (Exempt)
The Fire Research Biologist is a key position for all fire research at Tall Timbers. The Biologist will assist the investigation of the patterns and mechanisms of post-fire tree mortality and fire-vegetation feedbacks in forests, savanna, and grasslands. The incumbent will primarily focus on a series of large permanent plots where prescribed fire is applied. The incumbent will be supervised by the Director of Research and work closely with other scientists and staff at Tall Timbers and collaboratively with other scientists and staff at the USDA Forest Service, and affiliated NGOs, universities, and land managers.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
The incumbent will primarily be responsible for collecting field data, data management, and
writing manuscripts. Additionally, the candidate will assist coordination for multiple field-based projects, including administration, field activities, and supervision of interns and other technicians.
Minimum Qualifications
A completed graduate degree in either forestry, ecology, plant physiology, or a related field.
Candidate should be highly motivated with the ability to work independently. The candidate
should have experience designing and implementing field and laboratory experiments. Experience with advanced statistical analyses is preferred. Valid state driver’s license required.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Knowledge of and experience with two or more of the following topic areas: forest ecology,
community ecology, fire ecology, fire behavior, statistical analyses, and scientific writing.
Working Conditions and Physical Effort
Ability to perform routine office work and fieldwork in inclement weather and under strenuous
conditions in southern climates throughout the calendar year, including occasional long hours and weekends for field campaigns.
Workplace Environment
Tall Timbers is committed as equal opportunity/affirmative action employer, and does not tolerate discrimination or hate toward any race, ethnicity, culture, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, ability, national origin, veteran status, socioeconomic class, religion, or professional status. We strongly encourage applications from historically underrepresented groups and those that add to and engage the local communities of the region.
Instructions for Applying
Applications should include (in a single PDF): 1) a letter of interest that includes educational and experiential preparation and 2) a current resume. All applications should be emailed to Dr. Morgan Varner (mvarner@talltimbers.org) and Erin Wachter (ewachter@talltimbers.org).
Contact: Erin Wachter, Lead Fire Research Biologist
Contact Email: ewachter@talltimbers.org
Contact Phone: 804-305-1330
Applications Reviewed: February 22, 2026 or until a suitable candidate can be found
Position Start Date: Winter/Spring 2026 (negotiable)
Full-Time/Part-Time: Full-Time (Exempt)
Salary: $50,000 – $60,000 plus potential on-site housing in Florida
Work Location: Tall Timbers, Tallahassee, Florida
About Tall Timbers
Tall Timbers, a 4,000-acre site founded in 1958, is located in Tallahassee, Florida. Research at Tall Timbers is focused on fire ecology, vertebrate ecology, Northern bobwhite ecology, fire behavior, and advanced fire training to meet next-generation fire management needs. Tall Timbers also owns and manages the 7,800 acre Livingston Place, near Monticello, Florida. Both sites are frequently burned and have a diversity of ecosystems where fire is a dominant ecological process. More information on Tall Timbers can be found here: https://talltimbers.org/
______________________________________________________
Research Technician III: Fire Research
Tall Timbers is recruiting a Research Technician III to coordinate field research for the Fire
Research lab at sites across the southern United States. The research will investigate the patterns and mechanisms of post-fire tree mortality and fire-vegetation feedbacks in forests, savanna, and grasslands. The incumbent will be supervised by Dr. Morgan Varner and work closely with biologist Erin Wachter at Tall Timbers and collaboratively with other scientists and staff at the USDA Forest Service, and affiliated NGOs, universities, and land managers. The position is funded for 12 months, with additional support possible beyond based on performance and funding availability.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
The candidate will primarily be responsible for collecting field data, data management, and data analysis. Additionally, the candidate will assist coordination for multiple field-based projects, including administration and field activities.
Minimum Qualifications
A completed B.S degree in either forestry, ecology, plant physiology, or a related field. Candidate should be highly motivated with the ability to work independently. Valid state driver’s license required.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Knowledge of and experience with some of the following topic areas: forest ecology, field
techniques and measurement, fire behavior, and statistical analyses.
Working Conditions and Physical Effort
Ability to perform routine office work and fieldwork in inclement weather and under strenuous
conditions in southern climates throughout the calendar year, including occasional long hours and weekends for field campaigns.
Workplace Environment
Tall Timbers has a commitment as an equal opportunity employer, and rejects racism, prejudice, discrimination or hate toward any race, ethnicity, culture, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, ability, national origin, veteran status, socioeconomic class, religion, or professional status. We strongly encourage applications from underrepresented groups and those that add to and engage the local communities.
Instructions for Applying
Applications should include (in a single PDF): 1) a letter of interest that includes educational and experiential preparation and 2) a current resume. All applications should be emailed to Erin Wachter (ewachter@talltimbers.org).
Contact: Erin Wachter, Lead Fire Research Biologist
Contact Email: ewachter@talltimbers.org
Contact Phone: 804-305-1330
Applications Reviewed: February 22, 2026 or until a suitable candidate can be found
Position Start Date: Winter/Spring 2026 (negotiable)
Full-Time/Part-Time: Full-Time
Salary: $35,000 – $42,000 plus on-site housing in Utah and Florida
Work Location: Tall Timbers, Tallahassee, FL
About Tall Timbers
Tall Timbers, a 4,000-acre site founded in 1958, is located in Tallahassee, Florida. Research at Tall Timbers is focused on fire ecology, vertebrate ecology, Northern bobwhite ecology, fire behavior, and advanced fire training to meet next-generation fire management needs. Tall Timbers also owns and manages the 7,800 acre Livingston Place, near Monticello, Florida. Both sites are frequently burned and have a diversity of ecosystems where fire is a dominant ecological process. More information on Tall Timbers can be found here: https://talltimbers.org/
______________________________________________________
Assistant Fire Team Lead – Private Lands Fire Initiative
Location: Tall Timbers Research Station, Tallahassee, Florida (with travel to project sites across the Southeast)
Reports to: Private Lands Burn Team Lead
Position Type: Full-time term (2 years) (potential to extend if funding is available)
Compensation: $55,000/ year
Benefits: Health and dental insurance coverage is available for Full-time Employees
Position Summary
Tall Timbers Research Station is seeking a motivated and dependable Assistant Fire Team Lead to support the implementation of prescribed fire primarily on privately owned lands through the Department of Prescribed Fire Application (PFA). This position plays a critical role in increasing the use of prescribed fire to restore and maintain fire-adapted ecosystems across the Southeast. The Assistant Fire Team Lead will assist in planning, preparing, and conducting prescribed burns. Additionally, with this position, we aim to grow our support for landowner engagement, mentorship of fire practitioners, and monitoring activities. The current funding for this position will run for two years.
Key Responsibilities
Prescribed Fire Operations/Ecosystem restorations (Primary Focus – ~60%)
● Assist the Fire Team Lead in coordinating and implementing prescribed burns on private lands in execution of at least 50 burn days per year.
● When Fire Team Lead is offsite or absent assume responsibility for coordination and leading burns.
● Ensure fire equipment, including UTVs, engines, drip torches, radios, hand tools, and other pertinent equipment are fire ready.
● Communicate, record, and facilitate repairs and equipment needs.
● Ensure all burns are conducted in accordance with Tall Timbers protocols, burn plans, and safety guidelines.
● Serve in key operational roles on burn days, such as holding, ignition, and burn bossing (if applicable/able)
● Document fire behavior, weather, and outcomes post-burn.
● Assist with writing and editing burn plans.
● Tracking work completed to include use of spreadsheets, mapping, etc.
Training, Professional Development and Mentorship (~15%)
● Support the mentoring of emerging fire professionals
● Serve as a positive role model in the field, emphasizing safety, skill-building, and teamwork.
● Participate in safety briefings, field/classroom training, and mentorship opportunities.
● Assist with onboarding and supervising technicians, interns, or other Tall Timbers staff.
● Assist with writing, brainstorming, and implementing future projects.
● Assist Burn Team Lead and Wildland Fire Training Specialist with updating IQS experience records for PFA staff.
Planning and Logistics (~10%)
● Assist with pre-burn site visits, preparation (e.g., line work), and coordination with landowners.
● Help ensure that all tools, PPE, and communications gear are field-ready.
● Support documentation and data entry related to burns and site conditions.
Landowner Engagement and Outreach (~10%)
● Professionally represent Tall Timbers during interactions with landowners and partners.
● Communicate respectfully and clearly with private landowners before, during, and after burns.
● Help promote prescribed fire as a land management tool in Tall Timbers focal areas.
● Promote and direct landowners to PBAs and cost share programs when appropriate.
Other Duties (~5%)
● Assist with administrative tasks, field logistics, other departments of Tall Timbers, support for seasonal crew members/interns as needed or other duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications
● NWCG Fire Fighter Type-2 qualified. (FFT2) (S-130/190, IS-700)
● High school diploma or GED; Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in forestry, natural resources, fire ecology, or related field preferred.
● 2–4 years of prescribed fire experience, ideally including prescribed burning on private lands.
● Strong commitment to prescribed fire as a conservation tool and culture.
● Individuals must be able to drive Tall Timbers vehicles and, as such, need a valid driver’s license and a clean three-year driving record. Tall Timbers will require a review of your driving record.
● Must be able to commute to Tall Timbers daily.
Preferred Qualifications
● NWCG Fire Fighter Type-1 Qualified. (FFT1)
● Experience working with or mentoring groups in fire or natural resources
● Familiarity with fire dependent pine ecosystems, and Southeastern land management practices.
● Certified burn manager for FL, GA, and/or AL or ability to obtain certification within 6 months of employment.
● Basic GIS or mapping skills for burn unit navigation and documentation.
● Understanding of mechanics of basic firefighting equipment such as chainsaws, pumps, drip torches and hand tools.
Work Environment & Conditions
● Field-based position requiring frequent travel (sometimes overnight for multiple days), early mornings, (sometimes) weekends, and long hours particularly on burn days.
● Exposure to smoke, heat, rugged terrain, and inclement weather.
● Office time for planning, documentation, and coordination as needed.
● Garage time for rehabbing and caring for equipment.
● 90-day probationary period.
About the Department of Prescribed Fire Application:
The PFA is a department of Tall Timbers that increases prescribed fire use on private lands, particularly in fire-dependent ecosystems across the Red Hills, Big Bend, and Wiregrass regions of the southeast. The department aims to address impediments to restoring fire to the landscape and instilling a culture of prescribed burning.
Benefits: Tall Timbers provides a package of standard benefits including health care, dental care, vision insurance, life insurance, retirement plan, and medical flexible spending account. These benefits are subject to employee contributions according to Tall Timbers’ policy.
Vacation and Sick Leave: Up to 5 days of leave is available in your first year, following a 90- day probationary period. Employees accrue up to 10 days of annual leave for calendar year two, then 15 days in calendar years three and four, followed by 20 days at years five.
How to Apply: Submit a CV or resume, cover letter, and references to Stephen Wasp (Swasp@talltimbers.org) by March 2, 2026.
______________________________________________________
Technician – Private Lands Burn Team
Location: Tall Timbers Research Station, Tallahassee, Florida (with travel to project sites across the Southeast)
Reports to: Private Lands Burn Team Lead
Position Type: Full-time term (2 years) (potential to extend if funding is available)
Compensation: $40,000/ year
Benefits: Health and dental insurance coverage is available for Full-time Employees
Position Summary
Tall Timbers Research Station is seeking a motivated and dependable Technician to support the implementation of prescribed fire primarily on privately owned lands through the Department of Prescribed Fire Application (PFA). This position plays a key role in increasing the use of prescribed fire to restore and maintain fire-adapted ecosystems across the Southeast. The Technician will assist in planning, preparing, and conducting prescribed burns while supporting landowner engagement, field operations, and post-burn documentation. The current funding for this position will run for two years.
Key Responsibilities
Prescribed Fire Operations & Ecosystem Restoration (Primary Focus – ~40%)
● Assist Burn Team Lead and Crew Leaders in implementing prescribed burns on private lands.
● Operate and maintain fire equipment, including drip torches, hand tools, engines, UTVs, and radios.
● Perform operational roles during burns, such as holding, ignition, or firing tasks, depending on qualifications and experience.
● Ensure all burns are conducted in accordance with Tall Timbers protocols, burn plans, and safety guidelines.
● Document fire behavior, weather conditions, and outcomes post-burn.
Equipment & Vehicle Maintenance (~20%)
● Maintain hand tools, fire engines, vehicles, and PPE to ensure operational readiness.
● Assist in inventory management and preparation for field operations.
Fire Line Construction & Fuel Management (~10%)
● Cut and maintain fire lines and manage vegetation to prepare burn units.
● Assist with fuel reduction and other field operations to support safe and effective burns.
Planning, Documentation, & Logistics (~10%)
● Assist burn team coordinator and assistant with PFA inventory. Ensuring inventory is up to date and physical items match records.
● Support documentation of burns, monitoring data, and site conditions.
● Help ensure tools, PPE, and communications equipment are operational and ready for field use.
Landowner Engagement & Outreach (~10%)
● Professionally represent Tall Timbers in communications with private landowners and partners.
● Explain burn objectives and ecological benefits, answering questions and promoting prescribed fire.
Training & Professional Development (~5%)
● Participate in safety briefings, field/classroom training, and mentorship opportunities.
● Serve as a positive role model for safe and professional field practices.
Other Duties (~5%)
● Assist with administrative tasks, field logistics, other departments of Tall Timbers, support for seasonal crew members/interns as needed, or other duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications
● High school diploma or GED; coursework or degree in forestry, natural resources, fire ecology, or related field preferred.
● Previous experience in prescribed fire, ideally on private lands.
● Ability to work in physically demanding outdoor conditions.
● Commitment to prescribed fire as a conservation and ecological restoration tool.
● Individuals must be able to drive Tall Timbers vehicles and, as such, need a valid driver’s license and a clean three-year driving record. Tall Timbers will require a review of your driving record
● Must be able to commute to Tall Timbers daily.
Preferred Qualifications
● Firefighter Type 2 (FFT2) (S-130/190, IS-700)
● Experience working with or mentoring individuals in fire or natural resources.
● Familiarity with longleaf pine ecosystems, fire-adapted habitats, or Southeastern land management practices.
● Basic GIS or mapping skills for burn unit navigation and documentation.
Work Environment & Conditions
● Field-based position requiring frequent travel (sometimes overnight for multiple days), early mornings, (sometimes) weekends, and long hours particularly on burn days.
● Exposure to smoke, heat, rugged terrain, and inclement weather.
● Office time for planning, documentation, and coordination as needed.
● Garage time for rehabbing and caring for equipment.
● 90-day probationary period.
About the Department of Prescribed Fire Application:
The PFA is a department of Tall Timbers that increases prescribed fire use on private lands, particularly in fire-dependent ecosystems across the Red Hills, Big Bend, and Wiregrass regions of the southeast. The department aims to address impediments to restoring fire to the landscape and instilling a culture of prescribed burning.
Benefits: Tall Timbers provides a package of standard benefits including health care, dental care, vision insurance, life insurance, retirement plan, and medical flexible spending account. These benefits are subject to employee contributions according to Tall Timbers’ policy.
Vacation and Sick Leave: Up to 5 days of leave is available in your first year, following a 90- day probationary period. Employees accrue up to 10 days of annual leave for calendar year two, then 15 days in calendar years three and four, followed by 20 days at years five.
How to Apply: Submit a CV or resume, cover letter, and references to Stephen Wasp (Swasp@talltimbers.org) by March 2, 2026.
______________________________________________________
Wiregrass Prescribed Burn Association Coordinator
Location: Southeast Alabama
Preferred Start Date: March, 2026
About Tall Timbers
Tall Timbers is recognized as the home of the study of fire ecology and an advocate to protect the right to use prescribed fire for conservation. It is also recognized as one of the nation’s leading land trusts. Since 1958, Tall Timbers has been using prescribed fire science to solve land management problems. Our unique perspective is rooted in this long-term practice of working cooperatively with partners to conduct research and apply results on the land.
Position Summary
This term position will include improving upon previous outreach efforts and establish a successful Prescribed Burn Association (PBA) in the Wiregrass region of Southeast Alabama. Utilizing the PBA to conduct prescribed fires, hosting training and workshops, and working with partners to provide technical assistance will be key to seeing success in this region.
Focus counties: Barbour, Butler, Coffee, Covington, Crenshaw, Dale, Geneva, Henry, Houston, and Pike.
The specific duties of the position include:
1) Formalizes and acts as a full-time coordinator of the Wiregrass Prescribed Burn Association (name subject to change) at the behest of Tall Timbers and the Association.
2) Works closely with Board of the Association and other partners (to include Tall Timbers Geospatial Lab) to coordinate and ensure prioritization and safe execution of prescribed burns on private land within the Association.
3) Uses Burn Association to facilitate fire use, pool risk to create cost-effective insurance coverage and annually plan burns to mitigate smoke emissions and ameliorate limited workforce capacity.
4) Leads the effort to create communication and collaboration with private land participants within the Association through regular landowner site visits and facilitating quarterly outreach and/or training workshops.
5) Assists in reducing backlog of NRCS cost-share burn acres when and where feasible within Association in part through coordinating landowners with vendors and other burning options (such as burn teams).6) Oversees local extension and outreach services to private landowners, agencies and public land managers through weekly landowner visits, quarterly workshops and participation in conferences and the Alabama Prescribed Fire Council meetings.
7) Assists with burn implementation as needed as a team member with the Tall Timbers Department of Prescribed Fire Applications.
8) Seeks funding from agencies and landowners to support efforts and assists with land management through cooperation with other groups and agencies.
9) Host field days and workshops to demonstrate successes and provide hands-on training. Increase capacity of certified burn managers through facilitating certification training.
10) Participates with other Tall Timbers outreach and training staff to implement fire or assist in other fire related activities as needed.
Qualifications and Experience That Will Help You Succeed
• Dynamic personality with a demonstrated ability to deliver high quality classroom and field instruction on topics such as fire behavior, operational safety, fire effects, smoke management, fire planning, and fire weather to diverse audiences.
• High degree of interpersonal and communication skills, emotional and professional intelligence, self-motivation, creativity, organizational skills and a positive reputation within the fire and/or forestry community.
• Bachelor’s degree in natural sciences such as, but not limited to, wildland fire, forestry and/or wildlife management.
• At least 2 years of professional experience working in wildland fire or natural resource field.
• Experience participating in and conducting prescribed burns is required.
• Alabama Certified Prescribed Burn Manager is a plus.
• ALSBRF RF, CWB, or CF is a plus.
• Must reside in or adjacent to one of the PBA focus counties listed above.
Benefits: Tall Timbers provides a package of standard benefits including health care, dental care, vision insurance, life insurance, retirement plan, and medical flexible spending account. These benefits are subject to employee contributions according to Tall Timbers’ policy.
Vacation and Sick Leave: Up to 5 days of leave is available in your first year, following a 90- day probationary period. Employees accrue up to 10 days of annual leave for calendar year two, then 15 days in calendar years three and four, followed by 20 days at years five.
How to Apply: To apply to this position, submit a resume and cover letter explaining why you are the best applicant for the job to: Ryan Mitchell rmitchell@talltimbers.org on or before February 15, 2026. Questions to same.
______________________________________________________
Development Administrative Assistant
Department: Development
Reports to: Director of Development
Desired Hire: January – March 2026
Salary Range: $30,000 – $40,0000
Hours: 32 -40 (Flexible work schedule open for discussion)
Scope and Impact
The Development Administrative Assistant plays an important role by providing support to the Development Office by assisting with donor appeals, data base entry and filing. The Development Administrative Assistant reports to the Development Director.
Position Summary
The Development Administrative Assistant is responsible for assisting with all administrative aspects of the Development Office which consist of daily reports, organized record keeping, management of direct mail appeal, and assistance with day to day items.
Principle Responsibilities
- Prepare acknowledgement letters and other correspondence.
- Maintain foundation, corporation and individual donor files.
- Create monthly fundraising reports and other database reports as needed.
- Continually update and correct database records.
- Coordinate productions and mailing of donor letters.
- Track tax credit donations in the database and keep a file for each tax credit donor.
- Assist with administrative details associated with the Development Committee and Foundation Board. (i.e. assist with PowerPoint presentation and board meeting notes.)
- Digitize & and keep up with filing of all donor materials
- Create and share monthly manager’s reports
- Assist in office preparation of events (name tags and printed materials)
Possible Performance Measures
- Success in maintaining accuracy of database records.
- Success in coordinating the production of direct mail appeals.
- Success in maintaining donor hard copy files
Preparation and Knowledge
- Associates or bachelor’s degree in a related field.
- A minimum of three years’ experience preferred in an administrative position, preferably in a not-for-profit development office
- Proficiency with PC and Microsoft Office Suite, especially Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint, required. Database management systems experience –Donor Perfect preferred or similar.
- Proficiency with digital media tools
- Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills with the ability to act in a professional manner with donors, trustees, and other constituents
- High level of discretion in dealing with sensitive and confidential information
- Ability to present information concisely and effectively, both verbally and in writing
- Ability to organize and prioritize work
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Tall Timbers Research, Inc. is an EOE employer.
For full consideration, please submit cover letter and resume to Crystal Rice at cdrice@talltimbers.org
___________________________________________________
Louisiana Prescribed Burn Association Coordinator
Location: Within ≈1 hour of Leesville, Louisiana
Preferred Start Date: October 1st, 2025 (Term Position)
Position Summary:
This position will work in collaboration with existing Tall Timbers staff and local partners to include the American Bird Conservancy, Lower Mississippi Valley Joint Venture, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Services, Quail Forever, United States Forest Service, Louisiana Department of Agriculture & Forestry, Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, Longleaf Alliance, or other fire delivery organizations in the region to grow demand and implementation of prescribed fire activities on private lands.
Job Description:
– Leads and develops the concept of “neighbor-helping-neighbor” via Prescribed Burn
Associations (PBA’s) in order to facilitate fire use and gather resources on techniques to pool risk and availability of cost-effective insurance coverage. Annually plan burns to mitigate smoke emissions and ameliorate limited workforce capacity.
– Works closely with Board of the Burn Association and other partners to coordinate and ensure prioritization and safe execution of prescribed burns on private land within the Association, especially private landowners that are Farm Bill recipients.
– Leads the effort to distribute place-based communication and collaboration with private
landowners through regular site visits and facilitating quarterly workshops and/or trainings.
Work closely with Tall Timber’s East Texas Prescribed Fire Coordinator and appropriate partners to ensure production of high quality, relevant and accurate prescribed fire outreach and training modules.
– Assists in reducing backlog of NRCS cost-share burn acres within region and/or in other priority areas of LA through coordinating landowners with relevant burn contractors, QF Habitat Team, Tall Timbers Private Land Burn Team, or the PBA sweat equity model.
– Oversees local extension and outreach services to private landowners, agencies through weekly landowner visits, quarterly workshops and participation in conferences and LA Prescribed Fire Council meetings.
– Seek funding from agencies, partners, and landowners to support workshops and/or training.
– Host field days and workshops to demonstrate successes and provide hands-on training.
Facilitate increased capacity of Certified Burn Managers in Louisiana by assisting individuals, who have passed the LA Certified Burn training class, with finalizing the certification process by completing their 5 required Burn Boss certification burns under a Supervisory Burn Boss. Assist with the Louisiana certification training courses as needed.
Qualifications and Experience That Will Help You Succeed:
– Dynamic personality with a demonstrated ability to deliver high quality classroom and field
instruction on topics such as fire behavior, operational safety, fire effects, smoke management, fire planning, and fire weather to diverse audiences.
– High degree of interpersonal and communication skills, emotional and professional intelligence, self-motivation, creativity, organizational skills and a positive reputation within the fire and/or forestry community in Louisiana.
– Bachelor’s degree in natural science such as, but not limited to, wildland fire, forestry and/or wildlife management.
– At least 3 years of professional experience working in wildland fire or natural resource field.
– State certified burn manager is a plus.
Salary: $60,000.00
Benefits: Tall Timbers provides a package of standard benefits including health care, dental care, vision insurance, life insurance, retirement plan, and medical flexible spending account. These benefits are subject to employee contributions according to Tall Timbers’ policy.
Deadline: Applications accepted until position(s) filled.
Vacation & Sick Leave: Up to 5 days of leave is available in your first year, following a 90-day probationary period. Employees accrue up to 10 days of annual leave for calendar year two, then 15 days in calendar years three and four, followed by 20 days at year five.
How to Apply: To apply to this position, submit a resume and cover letter explaining why you are the best applicant for the job to: Kyle Carrington kcarrington@talltimbers.org on or before (September 15, 2025). Questions to same.
All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran and disability status.
About Tall Timbers:
Tall Timbers is recognized as the cradle of the study of fire ecology and is an advocate to protect the right to use prescribed fire for land management. It is also recognized as one of the nation’s leading land trusts. Since 1958, Tall Timbers has been using prescribed fire science to solve land management problems. Their unique perspective is rooted in this long-term practice of working cooperatively with partners to conduct research and apply results on the land. More information on Tall Timbers can be found here: https://talltimbers.org/
_________________________________________________
Accounting Specialist
Location- Tall Timbers main campus, Tallahassee, FL.
Employer: Tall Timbers
Position Type: Full-Time, pay depending on experience
Reports To: Melissa Proctor, Controller, Chief Financial Officer
Position Description
Currently there are two positions open. The position(s) of Accounting Specialist show proficiency in basic accounting functions with a focus on accuracy over all things and ability to work as part of a team providing customer service to Tall Timbers employees/department heads. Must have excellent organizational skills and attention to details. Must be proficient in Microsoft Excel and Word, basic email correspondence. Sage Intacct experience is a plus.
Position one: Accounting Specialist Revenue Recognition
Job Duties include but not limited to:
– Recording and reconciliation of incoming e-payments (Paypal, Square, Stripe)
– Utilizing Sage – recording cash receipts/ daily deposits
– Monthly revenue reconciliation with other departments
– Digitizing/Archiving revenue records
– Basic journal entry – data entry
– Assist with preparations for audits, pulling cash receipting support documents on demand.
– Contributes to team efforts by accomplishing related tasks as needed.
Position two: Accounting Specialist Grant Tracking
Job Duties include but not limited to:
– Set up and update monthly grant records
– SEFA report management
– Digitize and manage executed grant agreements and modifications
– Utilizing Sage – prepare monthly and/or quarterly grant invoices
– Work with Assistant Controller to track unpaid invoices – grants receivable
– Assist with new grant kickoff meetings
Minimum Training and Experience
– Associates degree; high school diploma/equivalent and experience equal to four years. (Note: post-high school education may substitute for experience at the equivalent rate.)
– Knowledge of GAAP (General Accepting Accounting Principles).
– Communication skills – Ability to document and convey basic accounting information to
accounting and non-accounting users.
– Willingness to learn new concepts and skills.
Salary and Benefits: Competitive salary. Full Time. Inhouse. 10 paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave. Medical and dental/vision benefits.
Deadline: Applications accepted until position(s) filled.
For additional information, please contact Melissa Proctor at mproctor@talltimbers.org. No phone calls
How to apply: Please email all of the following information to mproctor@talltimbers.org
1. A cover letter explaining your interest and salary requirements;
2. Resume
3. Two Professional References
About Tall Timbers – The mission of Tall Timbers is to foster exemplary land stewardship through research, conservation and education. Our primary research focus is the ecology and management of fire- dependent ecosystems and wildlife, including bobwhite quail, in the Southeastern Coastal Plain. Our conservation efforts are dedicated to helping protect the distinctive rural landscapes and traditional land uses of South Georgia and North Florida. Our Tall Timbers Land Conservancy is an accredited land trust, protecting more than 157,000 acres of high-quality habitat in North Florida and Southwest Georgia.
___________________________________________________________________________________________
Post-Doctoral Research Scientist
Area of Specialization: Fire and Forest Ecology
Background: Tall Timbers, in collaboration with the University of Missouri and USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), are recruiting a Post-Doctoral Research Scientist to develop state-and-transition models that incorporate plant community flammability for eastern US forests. The incumbent will focus on priority ecosystems and work with a team including researchers with expertise in fire regimes and forest ecology. The position is funded for 18 months, with additional support possible beyond that based on performance and funding availability.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities: The successful candidate will lead efforts on quantifying community flammability using species-specific data. The candidate will primarily be responsible for collecting, measuring, analyzing and modeling data and writing manuscripts. The position may include administration, other field activities, supervision of technician(s) and intern(s), data management, and analysis. Collaboration with Tall Timbers research and management staff, University of Missouri research staff, and NRCS staff are critical for the success of the project.
Minimum Qualifications: A completed Ph.D. degree (ABD- all but dissertation- acceptable) in either forestry, plant ecology, plant physiology, geospatial analysis, fire behavior, climatology, or a related field. Candidate should be highly motivated with the ability to work independently. The successful candidate should have skills in two or more of the following: statistical analyses, vegetation analyses, measuring field and laboratory fire behavior, micrometeorology, geospatial analysis, and scientific writing. Valid state driver’s license required.
Preferred Qualifications: Ph.D. in aforementioned fields of study. The candidate should have experience designing and implementing laboratory experiments, as evidenced by publication in peer-reviewed outlets. A strong understanding of fire and forest ecology of eastern US fire-prone ecosystems or similar is preferred, though not required. Experience with multivariate statistical analyses and familiarity with state-and-transition models is preferred.
Working Conditions and Physical Effort: Ability to perform routine office, field, and some laboratory work and fieldwork in inclement weather under strenuous conditions.
Instructions for Applying: Applications should include (in a single PDF): 1) a letter of interest that includes educational and experiential preparation and 2) a current CV. All applications should be emailed to Dr. Morgan Varner (mvarner@talltimbers.org).
Contacts: J. Morgan Varner, Director of Research & Senior Scientist
Contact Email: mvarner@talltimbers.org
Applications Reviewed: February 1st, 2025 or until a suitable candidate can be found
Position Start Date: Winter/Spring 2025 (negotiable)
Salary: $62,500 (negotiable if housing needed)
Work Location: The position will ideally be based at the main campus of Tall Timbers in Tallahassee, Florida (www.talltimbers.org) or can be a remote post for the right candidate. Tallahassee is a vibrant community in the Red Hills region, notable for its education (Florida State University, Florida A&M University, and Tallahassee State College), conservation and recreation opportunities, and is the state capital of Florida.
_________________________________________________________
Internships
Livingston Place Quail Management Internship
- Quail hunting and field trials,
- Preserving the historical, cultural and natural features, and
- Education and training.
The internship is a 16 week program usually from Jan-April that is designed to indoctrinate young people to Tall Timbers land ethic of Exemplary Land Stewardship. The student will be housed and employed at Livingston Place and exposed to a wide array of activities in a short time. The end result is expected to be placement of the intern in a position on a managed quail property. A checklist of activities/skills the intern will be exposed to includes the following:
- Tractor driving (roller chopping, mowing, fire break harrowing, planting, etc.)
- Basic power equipment operation and maintenance (chainsaw, limb pruner, lawnmower, etc.)
- Horseback hunting for wild quail
- Assisting with wild quail field trials
- Introduction to horse care and maintenance
- Prescribed burning
- Supplemental feeding including grain handling/storage
- Wildlife research (radio-tracking quail, avian census, predator index, small mammal trapping, etc.)
- Nest predator trapping
- Quail trapping for research and translocation
- Feral hog trapping
- ATV and pickup operation and maintenance
Interested parties should have completed an A.S. or B.S. in wildlife management or be very close to doing so. A cover letter and resume can be sent to the Livingston Place office at 1583 Livingston Road, Greenville, FL 32331. TEL 850.997.1957, or emailed to LivingstonPlace@talltimbers.org.
Fire Ecology Internships
The Fire Ecology Program seeks to provide field and laboratory experience for college students and recent graduates in the areas of plant ecology, ecosystem ecology, and fire ecology. Our research focus includes effects of fire regime on plant communities, soil chemistry and carbon sequestration, long-term pine and hardwood forest dynamics, and natural history of the southeastern U.S. Coastal Plain and Red Hills Region.
Duties:
Most internships last 8-16 weeks and are largely fieldwork based but include some lab and computer work. Specific activities vary from year to year.
Summer interns (May-August): Summer interns are usually focused on fieldwork in pine savannas with emphasis on identifying, measuring, and collecting plants to characterize changes in vegetation in response to fire regime or land-use history. Summer interns also often help conduct prescribed burns. Fall interns (October-December): We hire fall interns focused on measuring trees for a long-term census in an old-growth beech magnolia forest, longleaf pine savanna, and a shortleaf pine-oak-hickory upland community. We will consider having summer interns continue to work through the fall if interested.
In addition to the above tasks, interns may also help with mapping burned areas with a GPS unit, entering and processing data using database and GIS software, entering data in Excel or Access, collecting and processing soil samples, adding information to a database on local native plants, and drying and weighing fuels. Interns also typically have educational experiences, including an intern exchange with other regional research and conservation organizations, and opportunities assist with research in other programs at Tall Timbers.
Qualifications:
Applicants should be college students or recent graduates in biology, wildlife, forestry, natural resources, environmental studies/science, or related fields and have an interest in a career in natural resources. Applicants will be evaluated based on the potential benefit of the experience to his or her career plans and satisfactory references regarding work habits, professionalism, attitude, and physical fitness, as work is sometimes strenuous and conducted in difficult outdoor conditions. Employment will be contingent upon passing a driver’s record background check (no points on driver’s record for the past 3 years) for insurance purposes, although exceptions are sometimes made. We encourage students of varying backgrounds to apply. Deaf and hard-of-hearing applicants are welcome.
Compensation:
Internships are technically unpaid but provide a stipend of $295 per week. Limited on-site housing is available at no cost to full-time interns. For interns that commute, some compensation is provided. Interns will be expected to work full 8 hour days (8-4:30, with a half hour lunch).
Deadlines:
Summer internships: Review of applications begins March 1 each year and are filled as appropriate candidates are found.
To apply
please submit:
- A resume
- A 1-2 pg. cover letter describing your qualifications, interests, and how you expect the experience to benefit your career. At the end of the cover letter, please be sure to state the beginning and ending date of your availability and note whether or not you require housing on station.
- Updated academic transcript (does not have to be official).
- Full contact information for two or more references from previous employers or educators.
Email application materials to: Brandi Griffin
Brandi Griffin, Fire Ecologist
Tall Timbers
13093 Henry Beadel Road
Tallahassee, FL 32312
Fire Science Internships
No internships at this time









