Erosion and Stormwater Researcher

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. It will be responsible for running experiments, collecting data, writing reports on the data, and presenting the results.

Location and Work Environment: The position is in‑person on the St. Paul Campus of the University of Minnesota. Some research activities may occur in the field and 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, typically from 7:45 am to 4:30 pm on weekdays with rare occasions for weekend or night work.

• 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. Prepare test materials, calibrate and operate specialized equipment, and ensure adherence to research protocols and safety standards. Monitor ongoing tests, troubleshoot equipment, and maintain detailed records of experimental procedures and observations to ensure data integrity and reproducibility.
• 20% Presenting results in meetings or events - Prepare and deliver clear, concise presentations summarizing research objectives, methodologies, findings, and recommendations. Present to internal teams, stakeholders, industry partners, or at professional conferences and outreach events, in‑person or online, and respond to questions or feedback.
• 20% Reporting, writing, and administrative activities - Compile, analyze, and synthesize research findings into comprehensive written reports, including interim updates and final deliverables. Draft technical documentation, develop dissemination materials, support project website and inventory management, and maintain compliance documentation and project timelines.

Required Qualifications:

• BA/BS Degree in Bioproducts and Biosystems Engineering or related field plus at least four years of relevant experience, or a combination of education and relevant work experience equal to at least eight years.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Research experience
• MS Degree
• 4+ years of work experience in construction, erosion control, and research

Pay Range: $36 – $37.85 per hour ($74,880 – $78,728/yr); depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment: 100% Appointment

Position Type: Civil‑Service & Non‑Faculty Labor Represented Staff