Research Specialist Advanced

William and Mary, United States

Updated: 3 months ago
Location: Williamsburg, VIRGINIA
Job Type: FullTime

Position Information
Position Information


Position Number 00604V
Position Title Research Specialist Advanced
Employment Category Full Time Operational
Location VIMS - Gloucester
Department 1N3100 Marine Advisory Program
Unit Mission Statement
The Marine Advisory Program at William & Mary’s Virginia Institute of Marine Science (VIMS) includes education, outreach, and technical assistance in the areas of aquaculture, commercial and sport fishing, marine education, marine business, and seafood technology and safety. The importance of advisory services at VIMS equals that of research and graduate education. While all VIMS faculty and scientists are from time to time involved in providing expert advice to the Commonwealth, the Marine Advisory Program is unique in that it is home to scientists whose sole responsibility is for advisory programs on behalf of Commonwealth citizenry, marine industries, and government.
Position Summary
The Marine Advisory Program (MAP) has an exciting opportunity for a Research Specialist, Advanced position to serve as an integral member of the Fisheries Research group.
The Research Specialist Advanced role is responsible for advanced to expert level duties in a laboratory, field setting and office setting. This position will engage in complex scientific procedures to support a research program, reporting to a program manager, principal investigator, or project director. The incumbent will deliver scientific services and may assume additional supervisory and administrative responsibilities.
Responsibilities include:
  • Leading work in the application and execution of lab techniques, field surveys or research procedures;
  • Writing or modifying computer programs to analyze data and generate reports;
  • Reviewing literature related to projects/procedures;
  • Conducting experiments;
  • Writing segments of proposals, reports and manuscripts;
  • Contributing to the coordination of grant by tracking budget expenditures;
  • Assisting lower level staff and troubleshooting instrument problems; and
  • Performing preventive maintenance on equipment.
Conditions of Employment
  • This is a restricted position, subject to the continuation of funding.
  • This is a non-exempt position, eligible to receive overtime in accordance with the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) and university policy.
  • This position is subject to overtime, weekend, and holiday work as needed. For the most part, these needs are restricted to times when sea scallop field surveys are in operation, and field work being conducted.
  • A valid Driver’s license must be maintained throughout employment.
  • Ability to successfully pass the VIMS at-sea survival training exercise. Remain current at-sea safety and survival techniques.
  • Ability to work on a commercial fishing boat for multiple weeks, and successfully perform all responsibilities while at sea, in all weather conditions, while resisting motion sickness.
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. and pick and shove catch repeatedly over 16-18 hour work day, while at sea.
Essential Designation No
FLSA Non-Exempt
Position Restricted? Yes, the appointment is limited due to funding availability
Position Term 12 month - Restricted
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree in a scientific discipline or equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Highly experienced in laboratory, field, and research discipline, most often obtained through experience and demonstrated competencies as a Research Specialist.
  • Basic knowledge of qualitative and/or quantitative research methods.
  • Demonstrated ability to conduct a variety of research techniques and procedures, operate laboratory equipment, and collect and report basic findings.
  • Ability to independently carry out structured research projects and provide assistance in developing research procedures.
  • Ability to independently carry out defined procedures and guidelines.
  • Ability to operate a variety of lab and field instrumentation.
  • Ability to communicate data and research findings.
  • Knowledge of contract budget maintenance.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Working knowledge of small vessels/boats, or ability to obtain small vessel certification,
    when applicable.
  • Ability to develop experimental design and research procedures.
  • Ability to operate, troubleshoot, and repair a variety of lab and field instrumentation.
  • Ability to lead, mentor, and teach basic research processes, safety, techniques, and methodology to lower-level employees.
  • Ability to oversee and direct basic research operations including laboratory and field duties of lower level employees.
  • Knowledge of computer programming software (such as automating and analysis – R, Matlab, Python, SAS, GIS, webpage, etc.
  • Ability to present data and training to other research groups and external contacts.
  • Knowledge of the research proposal process.
  • Technical writing skills.
  • Knowledge of basic budget expenditures and financial reporting.
Is the position remote work eligible? Hybrid (works remotely at least 1 day per week but not full-time)
Remote Work Disclaimer
Remote work eligibility is not guaranteed and is subject to approval. Employee eligibility depends on the likelihood of the employee succeeding in a remote work arrangement and the supervisor’s ability to manage remote workers. Departments and/or Human Resources may amend, alter, change, delete, or modify eligibility.
Advertised Pay Range Up to $50,000 commensurate with experience
Advertised Pay Range Statement
University Salary Range U07
Benefits Summary Statement
William & Mary offers our employees a full array of benefits including retirement, health insurance with options for expanded dental and vision along with group and optional life insurance with coverage for spouse and children, flexible spending accounts, and an EAP (Employee Assistance Program).
Our employees enjoy additional university benefits such as educational assistance, professional development, wellness benefits, and a robust holiday schedule. All employees have access to fitness facilities on campus. Staff members also have access to the university libraries, and much more. To learn more, go to: https://www.wm.edu/offices/uhr/benefits/index.php?type=none
Job Open Date 11/06/2023
Review Begin Date 11/20/2023
Job Close Date
Open Until Filled Yes
Special Application Instructions
Background Check Statement
William & Mary is committed to providing a safe campus community. W&M conducts background investigations for applicants being considered for employment. Background investigations include reference checks, a criminal history record check, and when appropriate, a financial (credit) report or driving history check.
EEO Statement
William & Mary values diversity and invites applications from underrepresented groups who will enrich the research, teaching and service missions of the university. The university is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer and encourages applications from women, minorities, protected veterans, and individuals with disabilities.

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