NERR Field and Administrative Technician

The University of Texas at Austin•Port Aransas, TX

34d•$40,000

About The Position

The Mission-Aransas National Estuarine Research Reserve (MAR) at the University of Texas Marine Science Institute (UTMSI) 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. The NERR Tech will work closely with the stewardship and research staff to maintain and implement the various aspects of our environmental long-term monitoring programs, conduct marine debris monitoring surveys, post-restoration monitoring, habitat maintenance, and overall NERR-related activities.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in natural sciences; or a high school diploma and four years of experience directly related to the job functions
Valid Texas driver’s license to operate University fleet vehicles
Ability to travel within the state and region for work on a regular basis
Ability to work in extreme weather conditions and perform basic fieldwork
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

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of coastal and estuarine ecosystems and processes
Experience trailering, serving as crew, operating and captaining vessels (up to 24 ft) in shallow water conditions
Strong organizational and time management skills
Strong problem solving, technical and mechanical, and communication skills
Knowledge of water quality sampling and analysis procedures
Ability to use hand and power tools
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.

Responsibilities

Assist in SWMP-related fieldwork (water quality, meteorological, vegetation, and habitat monitoring).
Assist NERR staff with pre- and post- fieldwork activities such as gathering equipment/supplies and post-field clean-up.
Assist in data entry, data management and QA/QC data checks.
Enter data into designated databases and data management systems following established protocols, and assist staff with data submission, analysis and/or writing reports.
Support Reserve staff and partners in marine debris related projects, including marine debris surveys, clean-ups, and outreach/educations activities.
Habitat maintenance of MAR trails and natural areas around the UTMSI campus. Tasks may include trail upkeep, vegetation management, debris removal, signage maintenance, and general site stewardship to support safe access, habitat quality, and educational use of Reserve lands.
Attend NERR staff meetings, staff development trainings and activities. Engage in team discussions, and training sessions to support effective communication, coordination, and skill development
Assist in other components of NERR field or lab work.
Assist in program activities of the MAR across all sectors. Support MAR program activities across Research, Stewardship, Education, Training, and Engagement sectors. Responsibilities may include assisting with events, workshops, volunteer activities, or special projects that advance the Reserve’s mission and goals.
Other duties as assigned.
Perform additional duties as needed to support the Mission‑Aransas National Estuarine Research Reserve operations, projects, and priorities