Hydrologic and Water Quality Research Assistant

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Job Title:

Hydrologic and Water Quality Research Assistant

Department:

FAES | Food, Agricultural and Biological Engineering

Position Summary:

We are seeking a reliable and motivated Research Assistant to support a variety of tasks related to field research, laboratory research, Extension/Outreach education, and data management. The ideal candidate will possess a strong work ethic, a willingness to learn, a hands-on approach to problem solving, and the ability to work effectively in both outdoor and laboratory environments. You will assist in field operations, basic laboratory procedures, managing data records, and help ensure the upkeep, accuracy and quality of our field research monitoring infrastructure.

Essential Functions:

Field Responsibilities

• Assist with the setup, operation, troubleshooting, and maintenance of research equipment and tools – such as ISCO samplers, flow meters, soil and water monitoring sensors, data loggers, pumps and heaters etc.
• Prepare, load, transport, and organize field equipment and supplies as needed
• Support and/or conduct site surveys, data collection and testing as directed
• Maintain accurate records of work performed, including field notes and field supplies inventory tracking and procurement of new inventory and associated services
• Follow all safety protocols to ensure a safe working environment.
• Perform basic troubleshooting and report issues to the appropriate technician or supervisor
• Load, transport, and organize field equipment and supplies as needed

Laboratory

• Log, label and track samples to ensure proper chain-of-custody and data integrity
• Prepare and store water samples for analysis in accordance with established protocols as needed
• Perform basic soil and water quality analyses under supervision as needed – the current analyses include soil physical properties using laboratory and field methods, dissolved and total nutrient concentrations using Seal Autoanalyzer, elemental analysis using ICP, Total Suspended Solids (TSS) analysis.
• Assist in maintaining laboratory cleanliness and equipment calibration as needed

Data & Inventory Management

• Create and maintain inventory of research equipment, sensors, and key supplies for field work
• Enter, verify, and manage environmental data using spreadsheets, databases, or management software
• Assist with the preparation of technical reports and data summaries
• Maintain organized records of field and laboratory activities
• Flag and report data anomalies or quality control issues to senior staff

Required Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent experience with 1 year of relevant experience.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and work in various weather conditions and terrain
• Strong attention to detail and a commitment to quality work
• Good communication and teamwork skills
• Valid drivers license and clean driving record

Preferred Qualifications:

• Undergraduate or graduate degree in fields related to agriculture, soil, water, environment, or engineering
• Experience with GIS, R, Python, Matlab, and similar advanced software platforms is desirable
• Experience with data organization, data management, and data analysis is also desirable
• Basic understanding of hydrology, water quality parameters, meteorology, and environmental monitoring
• Experience in graphic design, communications, or education is also desirable
• Technical certifications or coursework in related topics
• Basic mechanical or technical aptitude – especially in areas of agricultural machinery, construction equipment, electrical systems, and/or electronic systems
• Prior experience in a hands-on, field-based role – especially in areas of hydrologic monitoring or environmental monitoring is highly desirable

Working Conditions:

• Exposure to varying environmental conditions (e.g., heat, cold, freezing weather, standing water, rain, insects, poisonous plants).
• Laboratory work may involve handling chemicals and working in a controlled environment
• Frequent road travel to field sites such as agricultural farms, research plots, wetlands, reservoirs, natural ecosystems, and urban infrastructure.

May require early morning starts, long days, or occasional weekend work based on project needs.

Additional Information:

Required Application Materials:

A detailed resume highlighting education and work experience relevant to the job & Cover letter summarizing interest and qualifications for the position.

How to apply: Electronically submit a cover letter & CV via the OSU careers site: https://hr.osu.edu/careers/. Interviewed candidates may be subject to reference check.

Contact:

Position-specific questions should be directed to Dr. Vinayak Shedekar ([email protected]).  

This job profile is a Research Technician 2 (T2 level) on the career roadmap.

The offer for this position will fall within this range based on internal equity, unit’s available budget, and the candidate’s qualifications.

Location:

Agricultural Engineering Building (0298)

Position Type:

Term (Fixed Term)

Scheduled Hours:

40

Shift:

First Shift

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