Erosion and Stormwater Researcher

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This position is not eligible for H-1B or Green Card sponsorship. This position does not offer a STEM OPT training program.

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.

This position is in-person and located 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 provides a Regent Scholarship for employees who take additional classes, and the position allows flexibility to take classes each semester to achieve an advanced degree.

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

• 60% Running experiments, collecting, and processing data
  • Design, set up, execute laboratory and field experiments to evaluate performance of erosion and sediment control products, systems, and methodologies. Includes preparing test materials, calibrating and operating specialized equipment, ensuring adherence to research protocols and safety standards.
  • Fieldwork may involve installing and maintaining instrumentation in outdoor environments, monitoring ongoing tests, troubleshooting equipment, and ensuring data integrity.
  • Laboratory work may include operating flumes and hydraulic testing apparatus, simulating real‑world conditions, and ensuring accurate measurement of sediment transport, water flow, and product performance.
• 20% Presenting results in meetings or events
  • Prepare and deliver concise, audience‑appropriate presentations summarizing research objectives, methodologies, findings, and recommendations.
  • Present to internal research teams, stakeholders, industry partners, or at conferences and outreach events in-person or online.
  • Develop presentation materials such as slides and technical graphics, explain complex technical concepts, 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, summarize methodologies, interpret results, and ensure accuracy and clarity in communications.
  • Support administrative functions: maintain project websites, order supplies, coordinate equipment use, ensure documentation and data entry, track timelines, and support overall project coordination.

• Required Qualifications
  • 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 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 (approximately $74,880 – $78,728 per year).
• Time Appointment: 100%.
• Position Type:
  Civil‑Service & Non‑Faculty Labor‑Represented Staff.
• Benefits include: competitive wages, paid holidays, generous time off, professional training, tuition support, low‑cost medical, dental, pharmacy plans, health‑care and dependent‑care FSA, HSA contributions, disability and life insurance, employee wellbeing program, retirement plans with employer contribution, public‑service loan forgiveness opportunity, financial counseling, employee assistance program, employee transit pass.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.