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, Campbell loggers, Arduino, automatic pump samplers, telemetry, acoustic Doppler current profilers, water quality sensors). Perform field sample and data collection, stream discharge measurements, and schedule field visits and sampling based on overall project deliverables to collect high quality research.
  
  Coordinate sample preservation, sensor data acquisition, and data delivery to researchers and laboratories with a high level of accuracy. Support fabrication, maintenance, and care of field equipment and instrumentation, including hand soldering of electronic components onto microcontroller boards. Obtain, research, and analyze geological maps, regulatory files, and site‑specific historical and environmental data. Ensure safety of staff and equipment.

• 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 Office (Word, Excel, Access, Outlook), Grapher, and ArcGIS Pro. Participate in other geological/environmental research initiatives.

Work in rural, natural areas and isolated field sites with limited accessibility. Work from small boats, wade in streams, and operate under adverse field conditions (heat, humidity, insects). Ability to lift and carry equipment weighing up to 35 pounds.

Travel across the state of 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 required.

• 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 under diverse conditions; knowledge of navigation, weather awareness, and water safety principles.
• Experience with towing, launching, and operating motorboats; state‑approved boat safety course completion preferred.

• Ability to follow field sample data collection procedures and schedules; discipline to meet project deliverables.
• Effective communication, collaboration, organization, and teamwork skills.
• Independent, detail‑oriented work in a fast‑paced, priority‑shifting environment.
• Proficiency with office software (Word, Excel, Access, Outlook) and ArcGIS Pro; ability to learn new software.
• Ability to interpret maps and accurately collect, analyze, interpret, and summarize data from various sources.
• Sound judgment, situational awareness, decision‑making, and communication skills.
• Experience in electronics and soldering, compiling spreadsheet data, and working outdoors for extended periods under all weather conditions.

This is a 100% full‑time Visiting Academic Professional position, appointed on a 12‑month basis. Expected start date as soon as possible after July 16, 2026. The position may become a regular, non‑visiting position later. Salary range $45,000–$55,000.

Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Retirement Plan, Paid Time Off, Tuition waivers for employees and dependents.

The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity employer, including but not limited to disability and/or veteran status, and complies with all applicable state and federal employment mandates. Please visit Required Employment Notices and Posters for the non‑discrimination statement and additional information regarding background checks, sexual harassment/misconduct disclosures, and employment eligibility review through E‑Verify. Applicants with disabilities are encouraged to apply and may request a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (2008).

Requests may be submitted through the reasonable accommodation portal, or by contacting the Office for Access & Equity.

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