Research Engineering/ Scientist Associate I (4216)

Research Engineering/ Scientist Associate I (4216)The Mission-Aransas National Estuarine Research Reserve (MAR) at the University of Texas Marine Science Institute (UTMSI) seeks to hire a Research Engineering / Scientist Associate I with the Research & Monitoring Program. The MAR is one of 30 reserves that make up the National Estuarine Research Reserve System, dedicated to research, monitoring, education and stewardship of estuaries and their coastal watersheds.POSITION IS LOCATED AT THE UT MARINE SCIENCE INSTITUTE IN PORT ARANSAS, TEXAS.This is a full-time, grant-funded, 12-month position. This position is subject to annual renewal, contingent on satisfactory performance and budget funding.PurposeThe Research Engineering / Scientist Associate I will work closely with the research staff to maintain and implement the various aspects of our environmental long-term monitoring program.Responsibilities· Troubleshoot, clean, calibrate, deploy and retrieve scientific equipment (i.e., YSI sensors/sondes/handheld meters); service water quality and weather station equipment on a weekly, bi-weekly and/or monthly basis according to standardized protocols; maintain and repair SWMP station infrastructure and in situ instrumentation as required; coordinate and perform research activities related to sample collection (e.g., scheduling, water collection, deployment/retrieval of automated portable water sampler); operate vessels in shallow water conditions along the Texas Coastal Bend, including trailering vessels· Laboratory preparation and analysis of field samples (e.g., prepare sampling containers/filters, water filtration, weigh filters, chlorophyll analysis)· Retrieve and submit SWMP raw data; conduct QA/QC data checks and generate quarterly/annual metadata files for submission to the NERRS CDMO; ensure all data (water quality, meteorological, nutrient) are entered by the submission deadline· Maintain an organized and clean working environment (e.g., wash dishes, stow equipment/supplies); manage equipment inventory and order equipment and supplies· Training and supervision of interns, students and volunteers in support of the SWMP and other MAR programs as needed· Assist in program activities of the MAR across all sectors· Other duties as assigned· Attendance at an annual, week-long training for NERR SWMP technicians (out of state, fully funded)Required Qualifications· Strong troubleshooting, diagnostic, technical, mechanical, and communication skills· Ability to work in extreme weather conditions and perform basic fieldwork requiring lifting, pushing and pulling of heavy objects· Ability and flexibility to work long and/or irregular hours· Ability and comfortability to work in both a field and laboratory setting· Ability and comfortability to swim· Self-directed and solution-oriented mindset· Strong organizational and time management skills· Ability to work independently and cooperatively with others· Ability to conduct basic internet/literature searches· Ability to travel within the state and region for work on a regular basis· Ability to travel to a week-long annual training, out-of-state· Computer proficiency (Microsoft 365 Suite) and knowledge of basic data management· High school diploma or equivalent. Candidates with alternative qualifications or who have taken a less traditional career path may be considered if an aptitude for success and a strong willingness to learn is clearly apparent.Preferred Qualifications· Mechanically adept with at least on year of hands-on experience in a technical maintenance role (marine, mechanical, electrical or related field)· Ability to read technical manuals, schematics, and wiring diagrams· Experience trailering, serving as crew, operating and captaining vessels (up to 24 ft) in shallow water conditions· Ability to use hand and power tools· Knowledge of water quality sampling and analysis procedures· Knowledge of coastal and estuarine ecosystems and processesDriving RequiredThis job requires a class "C" operator's driver's license. The applicant selected must provide a current three-year driving record from the current state of residence. If not currently a Texas resident, a Texas driver's license must be obtained within 30 days of becoming a Texas resident. Employees who are required to have a CDL are subject to drug and alcohol testing (pre-employment, post-accident, reasonable suspicion, random, return-to-duty, and follow-up drug and alcohol testing).Salary Range$43,000 + depending on education and experienceWorking ConditionsA substantial portion of the work will occur outside, often under adverse weather conditions, including extremes of heat, cold, wind and rain. May work around chemicals and biohazards, as well as mechanical and electrical hazards. Candidates should be able to lift and manipulate up to 50 pounds (alone or as a team) as part of regular work activities. Candidates must be comfortable backpacking gear up a ladder to a secondary platform (approximately 15' above the water surface) to service instruments. Weekend, evening and holiday work may be necessary.Work ShiftM-F, 8am – 5pm with the occasional abnormal hours due to fieldworkRequired Materials· Resume· 3 work references with their contact information; at least one reference should be from a supervisor· Letter of interest