Erosion and Stormwater Researcher

Position: Erosion and Stormwater Researcher 3
About the Job

Visa Language:
Please note, this position is not eligible for H-1B or Green Card sponsorship. This position does not offer a STEM OPT training program.

Position Overview

This position will support research, outreach, and other activities within the Erosion and Stormwater Management Certification Program. This position will be responsible for running experiments, collecting data, writing reports on the data and presenting the results.

Location and Work environment:
This position is in-person and will be located on the St. Paul Campus of the University of Minnesota. Some research activities may occur in the field and some occasional travel around Minnesota or the nation is expected. The University of Minnesota provides a Regent Scholarship for employees who take additional classes, and this position will allow flexibility for taking classes each semester to achieve an advanced degree.

Work Schedule:

Work hours are flexible, but are typically expected to be 7:45am to 4:30pm weekdays with some rare occasions for weekend or night work. In-person - St. Paul Campus

Responsibilities

* 60% Running experiments, collecting, and processing data

* Design, set up, and execute laboratory and field experiments to evaluate the performance and effectiveness of erosion and sediment control products, systems, and methodologies. This includes preparing test materials, calibrating and operating specialized equipment, and ensuring adherence to established research protocols and safety standards. Fieldwork may involve installing and maintaining instrumentation in outdoor environments, often under variable weather and site conditions, as well as monitoring ongoing tests and troubleshooting equipment as needed.

Laboratory work may include operating flumes and other hydraulic testing apparatus, simulating real-world conditions, and ensuring accurate measurement of sediment transport, water flow, and product performance. Responsibilities also include collecting, organizing, and validating raw data; performing preliminary data analysis; maintaining detailed records of experimental procedures and observations; and ensuring data integrity and reproducibility across trials.

* 20% Presenting results in meetings or events

* Prepare and deliver clear, concise, and audience-appropriate presentations summarizing research objectives, methodologies, findings, and recommendations. This may include presenting to internal research teams, project stakeholders, industry partners, or at professional conferences and outreach events in-person or on-line. Responsibilities include developing presentation materials such as slides, visual data summaries, and technical graphics; explaining complex technical concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences;

and responding to questions or feedback. May also contribute to collaborative discussions on research direction, interpretation of findings, and potential applications or improvements to tested products and methods

20% Reporting, writing, and administrative activities

* Compile, analyze, and synthesize research findings into comprehensive written reports, including interim updates and final deliverables. This includes drafting technical documentation, summarizing methodologies, interpreting results, and ensuring accuracy and clarity in all written communications. Assist in developing materials for broader dissemination of results, such as website content, summaries, or outreach materials. Support administrative and operational functions of the research program, including maintaining and updating project websites, ordering and inventorying research supplies, coordinating the scheduling and use of research vehicles and equipment, and ensuring proper documentation and data entry in relevant systems.

May also assist with maintaining compliance documentation, tracking project timelines, and supporting overall project coordination.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications (must be mentioned on application/resume):

* BA/BS Degree in Bioproducts and Biosystems Engineering or related degree plus at least four years of relevant experience, or a combination of education and relevant work…