Limnology Research Specialist I position available
University of Missouri-Columbia
To apply for this position, please visit the MU web site at http://hrs.missouri.edu/find-a-job/staff/ and look for job opening ID 36060.
The primary function of this position is management of the day-to-day laboratory and field activities of the MU Limnology Lab (limnology.missouri.edu). We monitor water quality in Missouri’s reservoirs through two long-term projects, the Statewide Lake Assessment Program (SLAP) and a citizen science effort, the Lakes of Missouri Volunteer Program (LMVP). This position is multi-faceted, involving water chemistry analysis, field research, data management, training and supervising of hourly employees working in the lab and field, and interacting with volunteers.
Water chemistry analysis- Employee will be responsible for conducting analyses on water quality samples from Missouri water bodies. Previous chemistry lab experience is required. Analyses include colorimetric measurement of nutrients (phosphorus and nitrogen) in water, fluorometric measurements of algal biomass, and gravimetric analysis of suspended solids. Good laboratory hygiene is required.
Conducting field research - This position requires the applicant to conduct field sampling/research from water bodies via a canoe or motor boat, while also training/supervising others in that effort. Given this is outdoor work, they should expect exposure to heat, rain, etc. Employee will be responsible for collecting and processing water samples, operating water monitoring equipment, and driving to monitoring sites at a variety of reservoirs in Missouri. Some overnight stays are likely.
Data entry and management- This position will be required to upload data (entered in Excel by technicians they supervise), to a central ACCESS database and manage that database. They will also assist with conducting Quality Assurance and Quality Control (QAQC) of water quality data.
Personnel management- On a daily basis, they will need to make decisions that require professional judgment and assume a position of responsibility in the lab. There is a tremendous amount of communication necessary between this person and others while supervising lab and field technicians and coordinating their activities. Our citizen science program- LMVP- requires close communication with volunteers throughout the state. Employee should have advanced people/soft skills and be a team player.
Salary
Salary Range: $15.29 - $20.07/hour
Grade: GGS-007
University Title: Research Specialist I
Internal applicants can determine their current grade and university title by accessing the Job Information page through the Additional Employee Info tile in myHR.
Shift
Monday - Friday
8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Minimum Qualifications
A Bachelor's degree or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience and at least 1 year of experience from which comparable knowledge and skills can be acquired is necessary.
Preferred Qualifications
- Previous chemistry lab experience is preferred.
- Valid driver's license.
- Experience with software such as Microsoft Excel, Word, Access, and R.
Other Information
Some heavy lifting (~40 lbs)
Projected start date: June 1st, 2021
This position is full time and benefit eligible.
Application Deadline: Review of applications will begin on April 1, 2021 and will continue until the position is filled. For additional information about the position, please contact Dr. Rebecca North (northr@missouri.edu) or Dr Alba Argerich (argericha@missouri.edu).