Assistant Extension Professor, PFAS and Environmental Contaminants Analytical Educator, and Assistant Lab Director

University of Maine System•Orono, ME

12d•$70,000 - $75,000

About The Position

The University of Maine Cooperative Extension is hiring an innovative scientist, engaging educator, and collaborative leader to advance the University’s PFAS and Environmental Contaminants Analytical Laboratory and Extension programming. This faculty position combines applied research, laboratory leadership, and community education to address environmental challenges related to PFAS contamination in Maine. The successful candidate will work with researchers, agricultural producers, government agencies, and community partners to translate environmental science into practical knowledge and solutions for affected communities. The role includes supporting analytical research and laboratory operations and developing educational programs that help farmers and other stakeholders make informed decisions. The position is soft-money funded, with a typical hiring range of $70,000 to $75,000, commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Requirements

Master’s degree in Environmental Engineering, Analytical Chemistry, Environmental Chemistry, Chemistry, Soil Science, Environmental Science, or a closely related field by the date of hire.
Approximately 3 years of experience in PFAS analysis, pesticide residue analysis, or similar work.
Demonstrated experience with liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) analysis and data interpretation.
Ability to plan, organize, coordinate, teach, and evaluate educational programs.
Effective verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to articulate clear goals.
Proven ability to achieve goals and manage multiple tasks.
Demonstrated experience in teaching or training and communicating complex scientific information to a general public audience.
Demonstrated computer and educational technology skills, including Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint, Google Drive, and document management software.
Demonstrated experience with applied research and community needs assessments.
Excellent interpersonal, technical writing, and public communication skills.
Ability to work independently and effectively with others in a team environment.
Ability to creatively solve problems and manage conflicts within groups.

Nice To Haves

Experience with automated solid-phase extraction (SPE) systems and automated extraction systems.
Experience building partnerships with state agencies, federal agencies, agricultural organizations, commodity groups, or affected communities.
Experience with Cooperative Extension educational program development, delivery, and evaluation.
Experience in grant writing and financial management of grant funds.
Knowledge of current and emerging issues, practices, and trends in PFAS analytical methods.
A documented record of high-quality applied scientific research, demonstrated through publications in peer-reviewed journals and/or the popular press.

Responsibilities

Advance the University’s PFAS and Environmental Contaminants Analytical Laboratory and Extension programming.
Support analytical research and laboratory operations.
Develop and deliver educational programs that help farmers and stakeholders make informed decisions.
Translate complex environmental science into practical knowledge and solutions for communities affected by PFAS contamination.
Plan, organize, coordinate, teach, and evaluate educational programs.
Conduct applied research and community needs assessments.
Build partnerships with researchers, agricultural producers, government agencies, and community partners.