Research Specialist I

William and Mary, United States

Updated: about 22 hours ago
Location: Williamsburg, VIRGINIA
Job Type: FullTime

Position Information
Position Information


Position Number 00613V
Position Title Research Specialist I
Employment Category Full Time Operational
Location VIMS - Gloucester
Department 1C1100 Ecosystem Health
Unit Mission Statement
The mission of VIMS is to seek and broadly communicate knowledge in marine and coastal science to the Commonwealth of Virginia, the nation, and the world through research, education, and advisory service. VIMS’ strategic sections are committed to the development of resilient systems through a focus on three grand challenges, ensuring science for stewardship of:
1. Ecosystem Health: connecting physical, chemical, biological, and socioeconomic systems to address environmental and community vulnerabilities
2. Natural Resources: providing translational science for sustainable management of coastal socio-ecological systems, especially fisheries and aquaculture
3. Coastal and Ocean Processes: connecting global trends and local drivers to understand and address environmental change
Position Summary
The Research Specialist I role provides support in the performance of various technical, scientific, or analytical activities for research programs. Duties may include specialized scientific procedures, conducting experiments and performing basic quantitative or qualitative analysis; planning and maintenance for field assignments and contributing to research procedures, compilation, and distribution of data. The Research Specialist I role is most often the second progression in the Research job family, following the Research Technician position
Conditions of Employment
COMPETENCIES:
  • 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 contract budget maintenance


EXPERIENCE:
  • Experience documenting, labeling, and storing samples.
  • Experience with database management.
  • Experience working on research vessels and leading a team in the field.
  • Experience sampling salt marshes and other benthic habitats.
Essential Designation No
FLSA Non-Exempt
Position Restricted? Yes, the appointment is limited due to funding availability
Position Term 12 month - Restricted
Position Months Staff: Other (specify pay period start/end dates)
Required Qualifications
EDUCATION:
  • Associate degree in scientific discipline; or equivalent combination of education and experience


COMPETENCIES:
  • Demonstrated knowledge of sanitation techniques and laboratory and field safety.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of research and testing procedures and techniques
  • Ability to prepare samples and perform standard or routine lab testing.
  • Demonstrated skills in operating and maintaining tools and equipment.
  • Ability to follow defined procedures and guidelines or under minimal supervision.
  • Ability to maintain records and record test results to a high degree of accuracy.
  • Proficiency in a variety of software applications to include MS office with the ability to record data
  • Ability to successfully complete tasks in outdoor environment, as applicable.
  • Microscopy skills, including marine invertebrate taxonomy with the ability to use dichotomous keys.
  • Strong attention to detail, with the ability to work independently and use sound judgement in performing responsibilities.

EXPERIENCE:
  • Prior research experience in scientific discipline including laboratory and field experience, most often obtained through experience and demonstrated competencies as a Research Technician (in the Research Career Path)
  • Experience sampling marine benthic invertebrates.
  • Experience in biological, chemical, and / or physical collections and performing sample processing.
Preferred Qualifications
EDUCATION:
  • Bachelor’s degree in biology/marine or related field or the equivalent combination of education and experience.
Is the position remote work eligible? Not eligible
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 $35,000 cwe
Advertised Pay Range Statement
University Salary Range U06
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 03/18/2024
Review Begin Date 04/01/2024
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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