Field Research Assistant

The University of New Mexico•Albuquerque, NM

6d•Onsite

About The Position

Field and lab technician to work on SHIPs for the FOR-NM project. This position will work on building out electrical components of the SHIPs in the lab. Responsible for supporting Lead SHIP technician in testing and calibrating sensors in the lab. This position will support the Lead SHIP technician in the installation of these sensors in the field. Work requires periods of heavy physical effort, handling heavy objects, general construction skills, and/or extended periods of standing or walking for large portions of the work day. Field work may involve prolonged exposure including high temperatures, dusty conditions, high light, low humidity, and high winds. Outdoor work may also include chance encounters with poisonous snakes or spiders however these organisms will not be handled in any way. Laboratory work may include exposure to hazards or physical risks that require following basic safety procedures. The duty station for this position is UNM Biology. Often requires working long hours in the field outside of normal business hours (dawn-dusk measurement campaigns, etc.).

Requirements

High school diploma or GED
At least 1 year of experience directly related to the duties and responsibilities specified.
Possession of a valid New Mexico driver's license.
Successful candidate must submit to post-offer, pre-employment physical examination and medical history check.
Employees who provide services or work in patient care or clinical areas are required to be in compliance with the University's influenza vaccination requirement.

Nice To Haves

Demonstrated experience operating safely in remote and rugged terrain.
Wilderness first aid training is preferred.
Demonstrated technical understanding of electronics and electricity.
A background in engineering is desirable.
Demonstrated experience with computer programming.
Demonstrated experience with basic construction tools such as hand saw, table saw, cordless drills, etc.
Demonstrated proficiency with Campbell datalogger programming and data retrieval, interface with multiplexers and sensors.
Demonstrated proficiency with instrumentation, and ecophysiological field instrumentation.
In particular, basic micrometeorology sensors, soil water content, temperature and sapflow probes.

Responsibilities

Building out electrical components of the SHIPs in the lab.
Supporting Lead SHIP technician in testing and calibrating sensors in the lab.
Supporting the Lead SHIP technician in the installation of these sensors in the field.