Research Support Specialist II, BEE; Hybrid

The New York State Water Resources Institute (NYSWRI) at Cornell University is seeking a Research Support Specialist II to support research and restoration efforts that improve aquatic connectivity throughout New York State. NYSWRI works with state agencies, nonprofit organizations, and local communities to restore free-flowing rivers and streams by removing or modifying aging dams, undersized culverts, and other barriers that impact aquatic ecosystems.

In this role, you will conduct field research, analyze ecological data, and collaborate with partners to evaluate the impacts of stream restoration and dam removal projects. This is an exciting opportunity for an environmental professional who enjoys balancing fieldwork, scientific analysis, and stakeholder engagement while contributing to meaningful conservation outcomes.

This position is a full-time, 35 hours/week, one-year term appointment that is contingent upon available work, funding, and performance.

• Lead and support aquatic ecology and stream restoration monitoring projects across New York State
• Conduct stream surveys, habitat assessments, biological monitoring, and geomorphic field measurements
• Collect, process, and analyze ecological data, including aquatic macroinvertebrate samples
• Prepare technical reports, scientific publications, presentations, and project documentation.
• Collaborate with state agencies, environmental organizations, and community partners to advance restoration initiatives
• Communicate scientific findings to a variety of audiences, from technical experts to community stakeholders
• Support project planning, development, and implementation efforts that advance water resource management across New York State

The Department of Biological and Environmental Engineering (BEE) is one of the largest of its kind in the country with a very diverse faculty, staff, and student population. The department serves three integrated functions: teaching undergraduate and graduate students, researching problems in biology and the environment, and public outreach to help society implement new knowledge.

• Bachelor's Degree and 3+ years of relevant experience in aquatic biology, ecology, natural resources, environmental studies or equivalent combination of education and experience
• Experience conducting field-based environmental or ecological research in/on water bodies and wetlands involving stream surveys, macroinvertebrate collection and analysis, instream habitat assessments, and rod/level topographic surveying
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to present technical information clearly
• Demonstrated ability to independently manage multiple projects and competing priorities, balance field and office responsibilities, and consistently meet project deadlines
• Experience managing, analyzing, and interpreting environmental data using statistical software such as R
• Experience using Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, and PowerPoint) and R statistical software.
• Knowledge of stream assessment methods, aquatic ecosystems, and biological monitoring techniques
• Ability to safely carry field equipment weighing up to 30 pounds and access remote field locations
• Valid driver's license and ability to meet university driving requirements; boating experience or certification is a plus
• Ability to cultivate and develop inclusive and equitable working relationships with students, faculty, staff, and community members.

If you have all those things, great! We have a few more things that we would prefer you to have, but it’s ok if you don’t.

• Master's degree in Aquatic Biology, Ecology, Natural Resources, Environmental Studies or equivalent
• 6-8 years’ experience implementing and managing field projects, particularly those which investigate macroinvertebrate responses to changing environmental conditions, and disseminating project outcomes to relevant stakeholder groups
• Familiarity with NYS DEC stream biomonitoring protocols, field collection methods, and water quality assessments
• Extensive knowledge (family level or better) of aquatic macroinvertebrate taxonomic identifications, particularly in regard to taxa found within New York State
• Experience working with local stakeholders and NGOs, such as Hudson Riverkeeper, Agency partners such as NYDEC Hudson River Estuary Program and Great Lakes Program, US Fish and Wildlife Service, etc
• Experience and proficiency with watercraft (motorized and…