Research Specialist IV

Job Title

Research Specialist IV

Agency

Texas A&M University

Department

Geochemical & Environmental Research Group

Proposed Minimum Salary

Commensurate

Job Location

College Station, Texas

Job Type

Staff

Job Description

Our Commitment

Texas A&M University is committed to enriching the learning and working environment by promoting a culture that respects all perspectives, talents & identities.  Embracing varying opinions and perspectives strengthens our core values which are: Respect, Excellence, Leadership, Loyalty, Integrity, and Selfless Service.

Who we are

The Geochemical and Environmental Research Group (GERG) is a center of excellence in applied geosciences within the College of Geosciences of Texas A&M University. GERG, founded in 1981, focuses on applied interdisciplinary research in the ocean and environmental sciences. As part of GERG's mission in education, graduate and undergraduate students are encouraged to interact with GERG's scientists and staff in their study and research. Students at GERG are mentored and advised in their study and research in many areas by the staff and scientists at GERG. GERG benefits from the leadership developed by the students and the dynamic and diversity of student activities.

What we want

The Research Specialist will be responsible for the technical design and engineering activities of the ocean observing research group at GERG. Duties will include: the design, development, and testing of research and operational systems at GERG, supervision of technical staff related to engineering and design (software, mechanical, electrical, systems engineering), coordination of logistical and field personnel, and assisting senior management in the execution of research projects and activities. If this job description sounds interesting to you, we invite you to apply to be considered for this opportunity.

What You Need to Know

Salary: Compensation will be commensurate to selected hire’s experience.

Required Education and Experience:

• Appropriate Bachelor’s degree

• 10 years of experience in an engineering or science field relevant to the duties and responsibilities of the assignment including:

• Experience with operations of electronic measurement systems and platforms in environmental settings.

• Knowledge of materials and mechanical systems for use in environmental settings.

• Knowledge of engineering best practices for environmental research.

• (Master’s degree is equivalent to two years of experience).

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Advanced use and application of modern design software: e.g., computer-aided-design (CAD), three-dimensional printing applications, for the design of mechanical and electrical systems and components.

• Knowledge of basic electronics, basic oceanographic/environmental instrumentation sensors, and understanding of principals of environmental field work.

• Strong organizational and leadership skills.

• Ability to multi-task and work cooperatively with others.

• Ability to work in a team environment.

Required Licenses and Certifications:

• Valid Texas Driver’s license and valid US Passport (or ability to obtain prior to position start).

Other Requirements:

• Collaborate with undergraduate and graduate students, postdocs, and affiliated faculty.

• Participate in field work activities, such as, oceanographic service cruises, research cruises, and meetings/conferences.

• Work closely with the GERG Management Team (GERG Director, GERG Ocean Observing Team Lead, GERG Operations Lead, GERG Business Director) to efficiently conduct ocean related research.

Preferred Education and Experience:

• Master’s degree in an engineering or science field relevant to the duties and responsibilities of the position.

• 10 years of related experience including: Experience in the design and application of electrical sensors, in harsh environments (salt water, large stress (high winds or currents), and/or high pressure).

• Evidence of supervising technical staff.

Preferred Special Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Knowledge of oceanographic system design and applications.

• At-sea experience.

Preferred Licenses and Certifications:

• PE certification in mechanical engineering or related engineering.

Preferred Other Factors

• Participate in undergraduate and graduate student training, as appropriate, and when interest, resources, and time allow.

Responsibilities:

• Engineering Design of MetOcean Systems - Design meteorological and oceanographic observational system components for use on ongoing and proposed research projects. Includes the design of moored systems, ocean surface buoys, mechanical and electronic equipment in environmentally hostile conditions (at sea, underwater, coastal locations, etc).

• Grant Proposal and Report Writing - Assist GERG senior scientists in the writing of research proposals to secure extramural funding. Proposal targets include: State agencies, federal agencies, private industry, foundations, and internal university competitions. Prepare and assist with team’s scientific manuscripts for submission to appropriate peer-reviewed scientific and engineering journals. Prepare progress and status reports to funding agencies according to contract deliverables scheduling.

• Development and Outreach to Ocean Engineering Professional Community - Participate in the research enterprise of GERG by contributing to and developing abstracts for presentations (poster/oral) at appropriate national, international, and regional conferences, workshops and meetings. Outreach to state, federal, international ocean research communities through membership and participation in professional societies and industry partnerships.

• Student Engagement and Training - Participate in the academic mission of the College of Arts and Sciences by interfacing and assisting with the mentoring of undergraduate and graduate students. This includes engaging with Oceanography MOST-degree candidates, Oceanography Undergraduate student (technology track), and Ocean Engineering students. Performs other duties as assigned.

Instructions to Applicants: Applications received by Texas A&M University must either have all job application data entered or a resume attached. Failure to provide all job application data or a complete resume could result in an invalid submission and a rejected application. We encourage all applicants to upload a resume or use a LinkedIn profile to pre-populate the online application.

All positions are security-sensitive. Applicants are subject to a criminal history investigation, and employment is contingent upon the institution’s verification of credentials and/or other information required by the institution’s procedures, including the completion of the criminal history check.

Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action/Veterans/Disability Employer committed to diversity.