Field Research Technician

Iowa State University • Ames, IA

1d

About The Position

The Department of Ecology, Evolution, and Organismal Biology at Iowa State University seeks applicants for a Research Technician II position to assist with ongoing water quality research projects across Iowa. Primary responsibilities include collecting water-quality samples and field data from wetland, riverine, and lake research sites across the state; installing, calibrating, and maintaining field equipment; preparing and analyzing water samples; and reporting field and laboratory results. This is an entry-level position that requires foundational professional and technical skills and is performed under general supervision. Key Responsibilities include: Assist with the installation and maintenance of automated water quality sampling and monitoring equipment at wetland and riverine research sites Assist with the installation and maintenance of flow monitoring equipment at wetland and riverine research sites Assist with the collection of water quality samples and field data at wetland, riverine, and lake research sites Document and maintain records on equipment installation, maintenance, and field sampling activities Maintain timely communications with supervisor and colleagues regarding all aspects of ongoing projects The successful applicant will be able to work independently with minimal supervision in both laboratory and field settings. Strong written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills are essential. The selected candidate will receive on-the-job training specific to the position's duties and to broaden their understanding of the research projects supported by the laboratory. Please submit a cover letter describing your experience related to the responsibilities and preferred qualifications for the position. This is a term position with opportunity for renewal. Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship. Immigration sponsorship is not available for this position Level Guidelines • Career-level position demonstrating proficiency and knowledge of related competencies • Works under direct to general supervision and may receive guidance on more complex assignments • Follows established procedures for work assignments, and completes assignments which are semi-routine and may be atypical in nature • Applies thorough knowledge to respond to inquiries and requests • Able to resolve most problems and issues and respond to requests without escalation • Provides guidance to students • May provide supervision to one to two other staff or lead a small work team

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent and 3 years of related experience
• Drivers License
• Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship.

Nice To Haves

• Associate’s degree in environmental science or a closely related natural science field
• Experience installing and maintaining automated water quality samplers and flow/stage monitoring equipment in aquatic systems
• Experience collecting water quality samples and recording field measurements from aquatic systems
• Experience collecting dissolved gas samples and measuring greenhouse gas emissions from aquatic systems

Responsibilities

• Assist with the installation and maintenance of automated water quality sampling and monitoring equipment at wetland and riverine research sites
• Assist with the installation and maintenance of flow monitoring equipment at wetland and riverine research sites
• Assist with the collection of water quality samples and field data at wetland, riverine, and lake research sites
• Document and maintain records on equipment installation, maintenance, and field sampling activities
• Maintain timely communications with supervisor and colleagues regarding all aspects of ongoing projects

Benefits

• Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental
• Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
• Generous vacation, holiday and sick time and leave plans
• Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)
• Life insurance and long-term disability
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Various voluntary benefits and discounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Wellbeing program

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED