Staff Research Associate 2 - 128871

Updated: about 1 month ago
Location: La Jolla, CALIFORNIA
Deadline: ;

This is a 100% Limited position. This appointment may be extended or converted to career status based on the needs of the department.

A Cover Letter is Required. Applicant should state their research and outreach accomplishments and interests; please also include the names and contact information of three (3) professional references The incumbent will be based in one of our locations where Specialists are housed (Santa Barbara or Monterey) depending upon the incumbent’s preference, and will assist with activities statewide.

California Sea Grant is a statewide program and the largest in a national network of 34 Sea Grant programs operating in all coastal, Great Lakes states, and territories. The primary mission of California Sea Grant is to provide integrated research, extension, outreach, and education to help Californians balance diverse interests that intersect with the coastal and marine environments, and adapt to changing conditions and needs. We accomplish this by sponsoring marine research, extension services, and education activities and collaborating with a range of local, state, regional, national, and international partners to further the acquisition and application of relevant scientific knowledge.

Under general supervision the Staff Research Associate 2 will assist a dynamic team of California Sea Grant Extension Specialists with applied scientific research, outreach, and education projects focused on achieving sustainable fisheries and aquaculture, healthy coastal ecosystems, and resilient coastal communities. With direction from the Extension Specialists, work duties may include: directing and participating in interdisciplinary field and laboratory research (e.g., ecological surveys, aquaculture experiments, social science and public perception assessments); preparation and hosting of outreach and educational activities (e.g., web-based seafood resources, fisheries and aquaculture themed touch tables, hands-on marine debris awareness activities, developing sea careers training curricula); helping to plan and implement meetings and workshops with colleagues and stakeholders; conducting literature and information searches; data entry, quality assurance, basic analyses, and visualization help with preparation of reports, presentations and manuscripts; managing lab and work spaces; and training undergraduate staff and interns.

This position will be based in one of two locations where Specialists are housed (Santa Barbara and Monterey) depending upon the incumbent’s preference, and will assist with activities statewide.

  • A bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (e.g., aquatic biology, marine science, environmental management, or coastal resources management) or equivalent research experience (e.g., 2 years with a relevant associates degree plus 2 years relevant experience). Preferred M.S. or equivalent education and experience in Biological or Aquatic Sciences (or similar relevant field).

  • Knowledge of and experience with computers including word processing, presentation preparation, data management, statistical analyses, video conferencing, page layout, literature database platforms and/or software.

  • Experience conducting field and/or lab marine science data collections, basic data analyses and interpretation, and literature reviews.

  • Experience with laboratory and field gear and procedures (e.g., use of microscopes, balances, calipers) including routine aquarium procedures (e.g., tank/filter cleaning, basic plant/algal care and animal husbandry).

  • Ability to train, advise and mentor interns, students and/or volunteers.

  • Demonstrated ability to work independently and as part of a team, exercising flexibility, initiative, good judgment and discretion.

  • Demonstrated written and verbal communication, interpersonal, organizational, time management, and problem-solving skills.

  • Job offer is contingent upon successful completion of a background check.

  • Must have access to reliable transportation and/or a valid driver’s license.

  • Must be able to work during non-business hours and on weekends, and on occasion for more than 8 hours a day.

  • Must be able to travel for program activities.


Pay Transparency Act

Annual Full Pay Range: $58,505 - $94,113 (will be prorated if the appointment percentage is less than 100%)

Hourly Equivalent: $28.02 - $45.07

Factors in determining the appropriate compensation for a role include experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, and other business and organizational needs. The Hiring Pay Scale referenced in the job posting is the budgeted salary or hourly range that the University reasonably expects to pay for this position. The Annual Full Pay Range may be broader than what the University anticipates to pay for this position, based on internal equity, budget, and collective bargaining agreements (when applicable).


If employed by the University of California, you will be required to comply with our Policy on Vaccination Programs, which may be amended or revised from time to time. Federal, state, or local public health directives may impose additional requirements.

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The University of California is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, gender identity or sexual orientation. For the complete University of California nondiscrimination and affirmative action policy see: http://www-hr.ucsd.edu/saa/nondiscr.html

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