Research Assistant I

Auburn University • Auburn, AL

70d

About The Position

This position is located in Mobile, Alabama at the Auburn University Marine Extension and Research Center (AUMERC) with work being done in Mobile Bay, the Mississippi Sound (AL and MS), Little Lagoon, and surrounding watersheds. The Research Assistant will be responsible for assisting the Pls of AUMERC in ongoing grant-funded extension and research projects including but not limited to an investigation of estuarine and nearshore microbial/physicochemical water quality conditions, evaluation of oyster restoration locations and approaches, Oyster Gardening programs located in both Mississippi and Alabama, as well as additional projects related to the study of water and habitat quality within the greater Mobile Bay area. This position will require significant time spent in the field where working conditions can be wet, muddy, hot, and sunny. There will also be regular lab and office work including meetings. The selected candidate should be comfortable in all the above-mentioned settings. Limited overnight travel may be necessary while same-day travel will be routine. This is a three-year, limited-term appointment funding by extramural sources. Continuation of employment is contingent upon availability of funds.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution in Marine Biology, Fisheries, Environmental Science, or closely related field.
• Must possess excellent written and oral communication (public engagement) skills, as well as being competent at following protocols/instructions and well organized.
• The candidate must also be able to work independently, be willing to work in all types of weather conditions, and able to lift up to 50 lbs.
• Must be competent with Microsoft Office programs; additional software training will be provided upon hire.
• A valid driver's license or the ability to obtain one prior to employment is required as well as reliable transportation to work and field sites (mileage reimbursement provided).
• Current Boat/Vessel Operator endorsement required within 30 days of hire.

Nice To Haves

• Boat driving/docking experience under a variety of conditions, field data collection, multiparameter instrument handling/logging, oyster/water sample collection, open water SCUBA certification, hands-on experience with typical laboratory equipment (e.g., drying ovens, microscopes, and autoclaves).

Responsibilities

• Assist with the extension and research projects listed in the job summary above, with primary responsibility found within nearshore water quality investigations.
• Assist AUMERC staff with the care, maintenance, and calibration of field and lab equipment.
• Collection and analysis of field samples (e.g., water, oysters, and algae).
• Maintain records/databases and files of research.
• Assist with grant reporting
• Perform other duties as assigned by supervisor and/or as needed.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Industry: Educational Services
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees