Research Specialist - Applied Aquatic Ecology

North Carolina State University

$ 45,454 - $ 109,409

United States, North Carolina, Raleigh

Nov 06, 2024

Job Posting Information

Posting Number	PG194333SP
Internal Recruitment	No
Working Title	Research Specialist - Applied Aquatic Ecology
Anticipated Hiring Range	Commensurate with experience ($57,000 - $59,000)
Work Schedule	9-6 M-F with occasional evening and/or weekend
Job Location	Raleigh, NC
Department	Applied Aquatic Ecology Center
About the Department	The overall goal of the Center for Applied Aquatic Ecology (CAAE) is to provide services related to surface water quality and associated sample analyses, algal ecology, and education and outreach in aquatic sciences. Our work requires various facilities and equipment, such as a State-certified water quality laboratory and a network of real-time remote monitoring ( RTRM) field instrumentation. High-quality water quality and algal data from the CAAE contribute to the State Environmental Agency database and to NCSU student research projects. CAAE water quality monitoring/research programs help safeguard potable source-water reservoirs depended upon by approximately 750,000 North Carolinians. CAAE programs also track water quality in selected estuaries and marine coastal areas.
Essential Job Duties	The Research Specialist will manage and support field research projects for the Center for Applied Aquatic Ecology ( CAAE). This role is part of a multi-funded initiative that examines the physical and chemical changes in freshwater, coastal, and marine environments in North Carolina, focusing on event-driven, seasonal, and annual variations. Key Responsibilities: Oversee field research activities, including planning and executing data collection in diverse aquatic environments. Collect water samples and environmental data using small boats in a variety of weather and environmental conditions. Operate specialized equipment, including multiparameter sondes, Acoustic Doppler Current Profilers (ADCP), and continuous monitoring systems. Ensure accurate data collection and documentation in alignment with project goals and protocols. Collaborate with team members to analyze findings and prepare reports for stakeholders. Provides thorough preliminary documentation of experiments/procedures in the lab. Responsible for basic maintenance of boats, boat motors, trailers, and trucks. Responsible for maintenance of field equipment, calibration of sensors, and detailed logs and recordkeeping. Consistently identifies, plans, and documents the correct materials and equipment needed to conduct State-certified water quality analysis in the lab. Why Join Us? This role offers the opportunity to work on innovative research that impacts our understanding of North Carolina's aquatic ecosystems. You will be part of a collaborative, mission-driven team focused on critical environmental challenges.
Other Responsibilities	Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Minimum Experience/Education	Bachelor's degree in a discipline related to the area of assignment; or an equivalent combination of training and experience. All degrees must be received from appropriately accredited institutions.
Other Required Qualifications	Must be able to operate and trailer boats to study sites and work in all types of weather. Must be able to lift 50 lbs with or without reasonable accommodations Must be familiar with programming cell phone modems and operating them in the field. Essential understanding is needed to operate laboratory instruments and equipment. Has the experience to perform specialized research procedures for water quality analyses that are required to calculate appropriate quantities of chemical(s) to ensure accurate results. Is able to identify and report discrepancies in data in the Analytical Lab at the center.
Preferred Qualifications	Experience preferred with wiring diagrams and electronics. In-depth knowledge of the research CAAE is dedicated to. Experience in using software for research objectives. Appropriate field experience.
Required License or Certification	A valid NC Driver's License and the ability to obtain an NC Driver's License within 60 days of hire. A valid Driver's License must be maintained throughout employment. NC Boating Safely Certification.
Valid NC Driver's License required	Yes
Commercial Driver's License Required?	No

Recruitment Dates and Special Instructions

Job Open Date	11/06/2024
Earliest Close Date---- (Positions will be posted until 5:00 PM ET on this date. Positions remaining posted after this date are still accepting applications but may close at any time.)	11/13/2024
Notice to Applicants
Special Instructions	Please attach a Cover Letter, resume/CV, and contact information for three (3) professional references. Please make sure that the information entered on the application matches what is on your resume.

Position Details

Position Number	00104330
Position Type	SHRA
Position Classification Band Title	Research Specialist
Position Classification Band Level	Contributing
Position Classification Salary Range	$ 45,454 - $ 109,409
Salary Grade Equivalency	620X07
Alternate Option	If no applicants apply who meet the required competency level and training & experience requirements, then management may consider other applicants. Salary would be determined based on competencies, equity, budget, and market considerations.
Full Time Equivalent (FTE) (1.0 = 40 hours/week)	1.00
Appointment	12 Month Recurring
Mandatory Designation - Adverse Weather	Non Mandatory - Adverse Weather
Mandatory Designation - Emergency Events	Mandatory - Medical Emergencies
Time Limited Position	No
Time-Limited Appointment Length (if applicable)
Department Id	112104 - Applied Aquatic Ecology Center
AA/EEO	NC State University is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, status as an individual with a disability, or status as a protected veteran. Individuals with disabilities requiring disability-related accommodations in the application and interview process are welcome to contact 919-515-3148 to speak with a representative at the Office of Institutional Equity and Diversity. If you have general questions about the application process, you may contact Human Resources at (919) 515-2135 or workatncstate@ncsu.edu. Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. Degree(s) must be obtained prior to start date in order to meet qualifications and receive credit. NC State University participates in E-Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States.