Research Associate

Texas A&M • Amarillo, TX

3d • Onsite

About The Position

The Research Associate supports the Environmental Quality and Natural Resources (EQNR) research program in the Texas Panhandle and the Dairy Net Zero research project. The Research Associate performs skilled, administrative, and managerial support in research, including collecting accurate soil, greenhouse gas, soil water, weather, plant biomass data, and respectively QA/QC data. Plans and directs certain phases in a research project.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in agriculture, biology, engineering, environmental science, or related disciplines.
• Two years of related professional experience.
• Possess valid driver's license.
• Must possess or be able to possess a Texas pesticide applicators license.
• Knowledge of instrument maintenance and equipment.
• Knowledge on Li-Cor multiplexers LI-7810/7820, neutron moisture meter (neutron probe), Giddings probe, tractors, weather stations, and small plot research.
• Knowledge of computers and Microsoft software related to the position.
• Ability to troubleshoot electrical, mechanical and computer/data issues and independently initiate repairs/solutions.
• Basic skills in welding and fabrication.
• Basic skills in hand and power tools.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with field-based agronomic experiments is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Supports the Environmental Quality and Soil Health research programs through planning, logistics, and execution of air-monitoring and soil health projects led by Professor and Center Director/Agricultural Engineering and by Assistant Professor of Soil Science/Soil Health.
• Exhibits a firm commitment to a culture of safety, and scientific standards.
• Drives state-owned vehicles to/from research sites at Bushland, TX, and across the Texas Panhandle and adjacent regions of the state. Occasional overnight travel is expected (e.g., training and certification for federal air quality compliance-monitoring operations in Austin, TX).
• Under limited supervision, performs weekly or bi-weekly calibrations, audits, maintenance, and troubleshooting of air-monitoring instruments; enters thorough documentation in electronic field book(s); reports on instrument malfunctions and low supply levels.
• Under limited supervision, perform weekly sample-retrieval and instrument troubleshooting, maintenance and repair at the Cañonceta atmospheric deposition-monitoring site.
• Under limited supervision, perform instrument maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair at TCEQ monitoring sites.
• Maintain inventory records, monitor supplies, and order restock as necessary.
• Receives shipments of sampling supplies; packages and ships samples to analytical laboratories.
• Pack and ship TCEQ analytical equipment as necessary.
• Uses computers and laboratory or technical equipment to perform data analysis, statistical analysis, and technical evaluation of research experiments and results.
• Evaluates and summarizes results.
• Assists undergraduate and/or graduate students and other laboratory, technical or field staff involved in research.
• Assists with reports, invoices, and cataloging records.
• Performs other, related duties as assigned by Supervisor(s) or their designee(s).

Benefits

• Health, dental, vision, life and long-term disability insurance with Texas A&M AgriLife contributing to employee health and basic life premiums
• 12-15 days of annual paid holidays
• Up to eight hours of paid sick leave and at least eight hours of paid vacation each month
• Automatic enrollment in the Teacher Retirement System of Texas
• Employee Wellness Initiative for Texas A&M AgriLife

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level