Visiting Scientific Specialist, Environmental Monitoring - Prairie Research Institute

Job Summary

Manage watershed field data collection campaigns and assist with the reduction and dissemination of collected data. Perform field data collection, deploy and maintain field instrumentation.

• Research-Field work/Data Collection – 65%
  • Operate and maintain research field instruments for environmental, hydrologic, and/or water quality monitoring: data loggers, sensors, etc. under supervision of senior scientists/field coordinators.
  • Perform field sample and data collection, stream discharge measurements, and schedule field visits and sampling based on requirements for overall project deliverables.
  • Collect high‑quality research data during and/or after storm events, possibly working from a boat or bridge under all lake and river conditions. Field projects are conducted year‑round and may be in any part of the state.
  • Complete sample preservation, sensor data acquisition, coordinate delivery, storage, and documentation of all samples and data to researchers/laboratories with a high level of accuracy and attention to detail.
  • Support fabrication, maintenance and care of field equipment and instrumentation, including soldering small electronic components onto microcontroller boards.
  • Obtain, research, and analyze geological maps, regulatory files, site‑specific historical and environmental data.
  • Ensure safety of staff and equipment.
  • Participate with team members on additional field research projects and initiatives to further the mission and goals of the Water Survey, Geological Survey, PRI, and the University of Illinois.
• Research
  - Data Analysis/Interpretation – 35%
  • Assist with interpretation, analysis, and summary of collected geologic, hydrologic and environmental data, lab results, and information for project deliverables.
  • Support preparation of project reports: producing plots, figures, tables and summaries using MS products (Word, Excel, Access, Outlook), Grapher software, and ArcGIS Pro.
  • Participate with team members in other geological/environmental research and initiatives.
  • Keep abreast of developments in hydrology, watershed science and/or geology.

Work in rural, natural areas and isolated field sites with limited accessibility. Working from small boats, wading in streams, often in adverse field conditions (heat, humidity, biting insects, etc.). Requires ability to lift and carry equipment weighing up to 35 pounds.

Travel including driving to research sites throughout Illinois and beyond. Hours may be irregular; overnight stays may be necessary.

• Bachelor's degree or higher in physical sciences (water resources, geosciences, or environmental sciences) with experience collecting field data and samples and creating and maintaining ArcGIS databases.
• Valid Illinois Driver’s License.

• Verified experience with automatic pump samplers, Campbell loggers, soldering electronic components, and performing discharge measurements.
• Basic boating knowledge and skills, including safe operation and maneuvering of small watercraft, fundamental navigation, weather awareness, and water safety principles; experience with towing, launching, and operating motorboats; state‑approved boat safety course completion preferred.

• Follow field sample data collection procedures and schedules; meet deadlines for project deliverables; maintain data management procedures.
• Effectively communicate, collaborate, and work in a team; produce organized, detail‑oriented work in a fast‑paced environment with multiple changing priorities.
• Operate and maintain electronic/digital instrumentation; proficiency in office software (Word, Excel, Access, Outlook) and ArcGIS Pro; ability to learn new software applications.
• Interpret maps and accurately collect, analyze, interpret, and report data from various sources.
• Sound judgment, situational awareness, decision‑making skills.
• Experience in electronics and soldering, compiling field‑collected environmental data in spreadsheets, and working outdoors for extended periods under all weather conditions.

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