Visiting Scientific Specialist, Environmental Monitoring - Prairie Research Institute

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 water pump samplers, telemetry, acoustic Doppler current profilers, and water quality sensors. Perform field sample and data collection, stream discharge measurements, and schedule field visits and sampling to meet project deliverables in a timely manner. Collect data during and after storm events, often requiring work from a boat or bridge under all lake and river conditions.
  
  Complete sample preservation, sensor data acquisition, and coordinate delivery, storage, and documentation of all samples and data. Support fabrication, maintenance, and care of field equipment and instrumentation, including hand soldering small electronic components onto microcontroller boards. Obtain, research, and analyze geological maps, regulatory files, site‑specific historical, and environmental data. Ensure the safety of staff and equipment. Participate in other field research projects and initiatives to further the mission 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. Prepare project reports, producing plots, figures, tables, and summaries using MS Office, Grapher, and ArcGIS Pro. Participate in other geological/environmental research initiatives to further the mission of the Water Survey, Geological Survey, PRI, and the University of Illinois. Keep abreast of developments in hydrology, watershed science, and geology.

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

Travel to and from research sites throughout the state of Illinois and beyond. Hours may be irregular and 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. Applicant must have a 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, navigation, weather awareness, water safety principles, towing, launching, and operating motorboats. Familiarity with boating regulations, right of way rules, and hazard recognition. State‑approved boat safety course completion preferred.

• Ability to follow field sample data collection procedures and schedules, meet deadlines, and consistently apply data collection and data management procedures. Effective communication, collaboration, organizational, and teamwork skills. Ability to produce an organized, detail‑oriented work product in a diverse environment with multiple priorities. Operate and maintain electronic/digital instrumentation. Proficiency in Word, Excel, Access, Outlook, and ArcGIS Pro, and ability to learn new software.
  
  Interpret maps and accurately collect, analyze, interpret, and summarize data.
• Sound judgment, situational awareness, communication, and decision‑making skills. Comfortable working independently with attention to detail. Demonstrated experience in electronics and…