Staff Research Scientist, Field Specialist

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Job Description
The Division of Hydrologic Sciences of the Desert Research Institute (DRI) is seeking a Staff Research Scientist, Field Specialist to assist the Community Environmental Monitoring Program (CEMP) in environmental research and data collection based out of its Las Vegas, NV campus. The successful applicant will work with DRI research personnel on hydrology, hydrogeology, and environmental science activities and will be involved in all aspects of scientific research including environmental laboratory activities, equipment testing and maintenance, field work, data collection and analysis, and report writing.
The CEMP Field Scientist position supports field work at CEMP stations through:
Working independently and as a team to develop, fabricate, install, troubleshoot, maintain, and repair remote weather and radiological monitoring instrumentation;
Using, maintaining, and repairing a variety of equipment, tools, and the associated safety gear/PPE;
Conducting multi-day field trips to remote locations, driving long distances alone and performing all job functions in extreme weather conditions;
Providing accurate records of inventory, field logs, purchases, travel, and labor performed;
Assisting the CEMP team in acquisition, preparation, distribution, and proper storage of hazardous equipment/materials;
Supervising and coordinating all fieldwork activities conducted by various personnel;
Coordinating maintenance of station equipment and instrumentation with manufacturers
Perform training of new Community Environmental Monitors
Representing the CEMP by conducting outreach events within CEMP communities;
Maintaining good communication with the CEMP team to keep all members of the team updated on current job/task status.
Required Qualifications
Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited institution
Previous experience working with instrumentation
Demonstrated field experience, including working in remote locations
Established mechanical aptitude, including familiarity with the use of hand and power tools, as well as basic knowledge of AC/DC current and experience with electrical/electronic equipment and systems (such as solar power systems, environmental sensors, and related instrumentation)
Demonstrated experience with collecting, organizing, and analyzing data
Proven ability to maintain quality, safety, and control standards
Willingness to learn basic laboratory skills
Demonstrated proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite software (EXCEL, WORD, PowerPoint, Outlook), with basic EXCEL skills such as data entry, data formatting, and writing simple formulas.
Use of strong oral and written communication skills
Proven ability to work both independently and within a team setting, with diverse interests and abilities to adapt and learn new skills
Accountable to maintain equipment and records such as timesheets, inventory, purchases, and field logs.
Preferred Qualifications
Greater consideration will be given to those who possess one or more of the following skills:
Previous experience working with research grade environmental sensors, dataloggers, and remote electronics, including field installations (e.g., weather stations, well logging, water quality monitoring, power systems, telemetry devices)
Previous experience writing and/or contributing to technical reports
Conditions of Employment
U.S. Citizenship per sponsor funding requirements
Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background check
Valid driver’s license required or ability to obtain one by date of hire
Fieldwork in remote locations will regularly be required.
Must be able to travel to local and regional locations for several days at a time on a regular basis.
This position will require the ability to perform physical tasks, such as moving or lifting objects up to 40 lbs., and occasional stooping, bending, and kneeling.
Salary/Benefits
Minimum starting salary is $60,206 and is commensurate with experience and education. DRI offers a benefits package that includes health, dental, vision, and life insurance; including 19.25% retirement match, 24 annual leave days, beginning balance of 30 sick leave days, 12 paid holidays, educational benefits, and the choice of three health insurance plans that can be supplemented with flexible spending accounts or health savings accounts. Additionally, there is no state income tax and no social security deduction. This position is eligible for relocation assistance.
Organizational Summary
DRI is a recognized world leader in basic and applied environmental research. Committed to scientific excellence and integrity, DRI faculty, students who work alongside them, and staff have developed scientific knowledge and innovative technologies in research projects around the globe.
Since 1959, DRI’s research has advanced scientific knowledge on topics ranging from humans’ impact on the environment to the environment’s impact on humans. DRI’s impactful science and inspiring solutions support Nevada’s diverse economy, provide science-based educational opportunities, and inform policymakers, business leaders, and community members. With campuses in Las Vegas and Reno, DRI serves as the non-profit research arm of the Nevada System of Higher Education.
The Community Environmental Monitoring Program (CEMP) is a network of 28 monitoring stations located in communities surrounding and downwind of