Visiting Scientific Specialist, Environmental Monitoring - Prairie Research Institute

Visiting Scientific Specialist, Environmental Monitoring - Prairie Research Institute

Illinois State Water Survey

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.

Duties & Responsibilities

* 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. (Campbell, Arduino, automatic water 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 requirements for overall project deliverables in a timely and accurate manner to collect high quality research.

Data/sample collection is often required during and/or after storm events when stream levels are high and may involve 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, and coordinate delivery, storage, and documentation of all samples and data to researchers/laboratories with a high level of accuracy and attention to detail to meet project deliverables.

Support the fabrication, maintenance and care of field equipment and instrumentation. Hand soldering small electronic components onto microcontroller boards for instrument development and maintenance. Obtain, research, and analyze geological maps, regulatory files, site-specific historical, and environmental data. Ensure the safety of staff and equipment. Participate with team members on other FIELD research projects and initiatives in order 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 the collected geologic, hydrologic and environmental data, lab results, and information for project deliverables. Support the preparation of project reports: producing plots, figures, tables and summaries from project data using MS products (i.e. Word, Excel, Access, Outlook…), Grapher software, and ArcGIS Pro. Participate with team members in other geological/environmental research and initiatives in order to further the mission and goals of the Water Survey, Geological Survey, PRI, and the University of Illinois.

Keep abreast of developments in hydrology, watershed science and/or geology.

Physical Demands and Working Conditions

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

Work Schedule, Travel, or Other Job Expectations

Travel including driving to and from research sites throughout the state of Illinois and beyond. Hours may be irregular and overnights may be necessary.

Minimum Qualifications

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. Applicant must have a valid Illinois Driver's License.

Preferred Qualifications

Verified experience with automatic pump samplers, Campbell loggers, soldering electronic components, and performing discharge measurements. Basic boating knowledge and skills, including the ability to safely operate and maneuver small watercraft under a variety of conditions. Demonstrated understanding of fundamental navigation, weather awareness, and water safety principles.

Experience with towing, launching, and operating motorboats. Verified experience driving motorboats. Individuals should be familiar with applicable boating regulations, right of way rules, and hazard recognition (e.g., shallow areas, debris,…