Research Technician, temp/casual

Complete data collection that will contribute to the long-term research and development program at the MEF and the collection of data for the development of a landscape-scale model of soil water availability. The goal is to collect soil, water, and biological data, and maintain environmental monitoring capacity to produce data. This is a temp/casual position that will be short-term and part-time.

85% maintain monitoring and operations at the MEF according to established schedules and protocols for collecting sub-daily, daily, weekly, monthly, and quarterly data, depending on measurement type and established methods; collection of new soil and water samples; installation of new environmental sensors and measurement infrastructure

5% enter data and maintain records of field work, contribute to metadata documentation and the archival process for data

5% participate in project meetings and professional development opportunities

5% work with Forest Service personnel to document and publish data

Required Qualifications:

BS in hydrology, soil science, environmental studies, ecology, engineering, or closely related fields
Ability to work independently and closely with others
Commitment to broad engagement with research partners including senior personnel, graduate students, and other technical support staff involved in the MEF research program
Ability to complete moderately strenuous work outdoors throughout the year in the northern Minnesota landscape as well as complete office and laboratory work as needed to support the research program at the Marcell Experimental Forest
Excellent oral and written communication skills
Maintain a valid driver's license, insurance coverage, and a safe driving record.

Preferred Qualifications include one or more of the following:

Experience and proficiency with basic hydrological and meteorological measurements
Knowledge of environmental sensors, dataloggers, and associated telecommunications devices/protocols
Experience with and expertise in soil moisture measurement and monitoring methods
Familiarity with small catchment studies and long-term monitoring studies

The Saint Anthony Falls Laboratory is a globally recognized hub for pioneering research in experimental and computational fluid mechanics, hydrology, and earth-surface dynamics. For over 80 years, our innovative and adaptable facilities have attracted trailblazers, problem solvers, and visionary thinkers. SAFL transcends traditional academic boundaries, embracing a spirit of curiosity and unorthodox collaboration. By fostering a culture of innovation, our diverse network of scholars and skilled engineers delivers groundbreaking solutions to the most pressing environmental science and engineering challenges, deepening our understanding of Earth's dynamic systems.

Fixed Pay Rate: $18.00 per hour

Retirement plan options are available for Civil Service, Faculty, Labor-Represented, Professional & Administrative, and Temp Casual classifications. Learn more about retirement plans.

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

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The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America's Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).