Scientist, Environmental Compliance, Environmental Science

Required License/Registration/Certification

None

Lifting objects up to 50 lbs, bending, squatting, and sitting for long periods. Regular job‑related travel and ability to drive a 4X4 vehicle.

Monday‑Friday 8:00 AM‑5:00 PM (40 hours/week). Possible weekend and night work as needed.

The Department of Plant and Soil Sciences at the Martin‑Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment seeks a full‑time Field Scientist for a USDA NRCS‑funded research project focused on wetland water quality in western Kentucky. The project evaluates the effectiveness of wetlands established through the Agricultural Conservation Easement Program Wetland Reserve Easement (ACEP‑WRE) in reducing nutrient and sediment transport from agricultural landscapes.

The successful candidate will join a multidisciplinary research team investigating how wetland age and management influence surface water quality. Responsibilities include operating and maintaining water‑quality monitoring equipment, collecting environmental samples, processing and managing data, and assisting with technical reporting. Training will be provided for project‑specific methods and instrumentation.

The position requires periodic overnight travel within western Kentucky, with all project‑related travel expenses covered. Candidates should possess, or be willing to obtain, a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Small Unmanned Aircraft System (sUAS) Remote Pilot Certificate to support aerial data collection.

• Operate and maintain water‑quality monitoring equipment.
• Collect environmental samples and conduct field sampling using ATVs, pickup trucks, and trailers.
• Process, analyze, and manage data from monitoring systems.
• Inspect and maintain instrumentation.
• Prepare summaries and reports of field activities and data collection.

• MS degree in agriculture, soil, water, geology, or environmental science (or BS with equivalent experience).
• Two or more years of relevant field experience (e.g., farm background, geology, forestry field course, internship).
• Proficiency with GPS, MS Excel, MS Word, ESRI GIS, and operating Mac OS/PC OS.
• Valid driver’s license (preferred).
• Ability to work independently and in a collaborative science team.
• Willingness to obtain FAA sUAS Remote Pilot Certificate.

• Exceptional benefits package.
• Formal mentoring program to support professional development.
• Staff development fund for continued learning and skill building.
• Staff recognition programs celebrating contributions.

07/03/2026

We value the well‑being of each employee and are dedicated to creating a healthy, Tobacco & Drug Free campus. The University follows federal and state laws on nondiscrimination and provides equal opportunities for all qualified persons. Candidates may be required to pass pre‑employment screenings as mandated by the University of Kentucky Human Resources.