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 44589.
The primary function of this position is to carry out the field and laboratory activities of the MU Limnology Lab (limnology.missouri.edu). We monitor water quality in Missouri’s reservoirs through a long-term project, the Statewide Lake Assessment Program (SLAP). This position is multi-faceted, involving water chemistry analysis, field research, data management, and training and supervising of hourly employees working in the lab and field.
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. Field days can be 12-16 hours long, but hours will not exceed 40 a week. 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. They will also be responsible for maintaining vehicles, boats, and field equipment. Some overnight stays are likely.
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 phytoplankton biomass, and gravimetric analysis of suspended solids. Good laboratory hygiene is required.
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. Employee should have advanced people/soft skills and be a team player.
Salary: Salary Range: $15.75 - $21.29 /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.
- Must be proficient in trailering and operating a motorboat up to 18 ft.
Preferred Qualifications
- Previous chemistry lab experience is preferred.
- Valid driver's license.
- Experience with software such as Microsoft Excel, Word, Access, and R.
- Some heavy lifting (~40 lbs)
Projected start date: January 3rd, 2023
This position is full time and benefit eligible.
Application Deadline: Review of applications will begin on December 1, 2022 and will continue until the position is filled. For additional information about the position, please contact Dr. Rebecca North (northr@missouri.edu).