Research Technician I–II

Texas A&M - Corpus Christi • Corpus Christi, TX

2d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Research Technician I or II will contribute to ongoing research with the Coastal Conservation and Restoration Ecology Group at the Harte Research Institute. This position supports a variety of field and laboratory efforts focused on oyster reefs and other coastal habitats. The Technician will assist with sample collection, processing, and data management in support of scientific studies aimed at understanding and restoring coastal ecosystems. The role involves a fast-paced, hands-on work environment, and applicants should be comfortable with physically active fieldwork including wading, boating, and working outdoors in variable conditions. This position may be filled at the Research Technician I or Research Technician II level. Final classification will be determined based on the selected candidate’s education, experience, and qualifications in accordance with applicable TAMU System job profile requirements.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED.
• Two (2) years of related experience working in dynamic field settings such as intertidal or estuarine environments, or comparable experience in a related field. (For Research Technician I)
• Three (3) years of relevant experience working in dynamic field settings such as intertidal or estuarine environments, or comparable experience in a related field. (For Research Technician II)
• Valid driver’s license
• Willingness and ability to travel as needed and work long/nonstandard hours during fieldwork and sample collection.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to lift and carry objects weighing up to 50 pounds.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor's degree in a related field.
• Field and/or laboratory experience with Eastern oyster (Crassostrea virginica) and other benthic invertebrates.
• Competence in identification and classification of invertebrates using dichotomous keys.
• Current valid SCUBA diving certification.
• Experience operating and trailering small vessels.
• Hands-on experience maintaining laboratory and field equipment.
• Familiarity with data entry and quality control procedures using Microsoft Excel.
• Educational outreach experience, including the ability to communicate research concepts to a broad audience.

Responsibilities

• Process samples in the laboratory (e.g., sorting benthic fauna, analyzing oyster tissue for disease, filtering water for chlorophyll and TSS, and preparing sediments for stable isotope analysis).
• Identify invertebrate organisms using dichotomous keys.
• Participate in field research, typically 1-2 days per week, including water and biological sample collection from boats or the shoreline. Fieldwork involves physical effort and often requires time in the water.
• Operate University vehicles to safely transport personnel and equipment in support of field sampling and research activities.
• Perform other duties as assigned
• Maintain and troubleshoot laboratory and field equipment.
• Keep laboratory spaces clean, organized, and well-stocked.
• Track inventory and coordinate ordering of consumables, field gear, and outreach materials.
• Maintain organized and accurate data records.
• Coordinate and provide logistical support for field activities, including preparing equipment, loading vehicles, and ensuring safety protocols are followed.
• Operate University vehicles and conduct field sampling/research via boats
• Coordinate and participate in educational outreach events, including tabling, hands-on demonstrations, and community engagement activities.
• Maintain updated outreach materials and ensure that supplies and equipment and ready for use.
• Assist with laboratory tours by preparing spaces, guiding visitors, and helping communicate research activities.
• Provide internal support for reporting by gathering information, locating records, or summarizing activities as needed.
• Assist in identifying and troubleshooting logistical or operational issues and contribute to the development of effective solutions.

Benefits

• Medical$0 - $30 per month for Employee Only coverage after university contribution ($920 value).Up to 83% of premium covered by the university: Employee and Spouse Employee and Children Employee and Family coverage
• Dental & Vision
• Life Insurance, Accidental D&D, Long Term Disability, Flexible Spending Account and Day Care Spending Account
• DUAL CAREER PARTNER PROGRAM
• ON-CAMPUS WELLNESS OPPORTUNITIES
• Work Life Solutions: Counseling, Work Life Assistance, Financial Resources, and Legal Resources
• Tuition Benefits: Public Loan Forgiveness
• Book scholarships 100% tuition coverage for up to 18 credit hours per fiscal year (other rules may apply).
• Retirement : Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS) or Optional Retirement Plan (ORP)
• Voluntary Tax Deferred Account/Deferred Compensation Plan
• Time Off : 8+ hours of vacation paid time off every month.
• 8 hours of sick leave time off every month.
• 8 hours of paid time off for Birthday leave.
• 12-15 paid holidays each year.

What This Job Offers

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