Assistant Research Scientist, Sensor Specialist

The Division of Earth and Ecosystem Sciences (DEES) of the Desert Research Institute (DRI) is seeking a Sensor Specialist to assist with ongoing sensor/system development activities under current Department of Defense (DOD) funded projects based out of its Reno, NV campus. The successful applicant will be hired as an Assistant Research Scientist (Rank 2). The incumbent will serve as a specialist or subject matter expert (SME) to coordinate design, testing, and engineering activities associated with the development of sensor systems. The ideal candidate should be familiar and comfortable with one or more of the following: statistical data analysis, scientific programming, and/or the collection and processing of data from sensors used to characterize land surface and subsurface. Responsibilities will include assistance in a wide variety of projects as opportunities and needs arise, including support of field research activities. Research projects have a network of equipment and sensors that require routine maintenance, upgrades, and new installations.

The position requires prior experience in some or all of the following broad areas: sensor deployment and calibration, sensor data fusion, and system integration and field testing.

Required Qualifications

• Advanced degree in in geosciences, hydrogeology, hydrology, engineering, physics, optics, electro-optics or other relevant discipline from an accredited institution
• At least 1 year of demonstrated experience in collection and/or processing of sensor data
• Demonstrated experience with the collection and/or processing of thermal IR, GPR, magnetometry, hyperspectral, or LiDAR data
• Demonstrated experience with scientific programming languages (Python, MATLAB, C preferred)
• Strong analytical and quantitative background
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Team player with diverse interests and excellent interpersonal skills

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience/interest in data fusion techniques
• Experience/interest in AI/machine learning techniques such as object detection

Conditions of Employment

• U.S. Citizenship required per sponsor funding requirement
• Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check
• Valid driver’s license required or ability to obtain one by date of hire
• Must have the ability to work on DOD installations
• Must be willing and able to travel for fieldwork (e.g., installation and/or maintenance of equipment)
• Fieldwork to local, regional, and remote locations may be required

Salary/Benefits

The minimum annual starting salary is $85,169 and is competitive and commensurate with education, experience, and aligns with similar public academic research institutions. DRI offers a benefits package that includes health, dental, vision, life and long-term disability insurance; including 17.5% retirement match, 24 annual leave days, beginning balance of 30 sick leave days, 12 paid holidays, educational benefits, and the choice of two 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.

The position will be based in Reno situated in northwestern Nevada at the base of the eastern Sierra Nevada Mountains, 25 minutes from Lake Tahoe. Reno boasts 300 days of sunshine and offers unparalleled opportunities for outdoor activities ranging from mountain biking, hiking, fishing, hunting, whitewater paddling, and golfing in the summer and fall to alpine skiing, snowboarding, and cross-country skiing in the winter.

Application / Review Process

Qualified individuals interested in this position must apply online.

Please upload the following documents in the specified section of your application in Workday:

• A cover letter detailing your research experience and professional qualifications
• A current curriculum vitae.
• Contact information for three professional references, to be contacted at the appropriate phase of the recruitment process based on applicant permission.

Qualified individuals who meet all qualifications and requirements are encouraged to apply immediately and provide all required attachments to receive full consideration. Recruitment will close without notice when a sufficient number of applications are received, or a hiring decision has been made.

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR INTERNAL NSHE CANDIDATES

DRI employees or employees within the Nevada System of Higher Education (NSHE) MUST use the “Browse Jobs” report within Workday to find and apply for jobs at DRI and other NSHE Institutions. Once you log into Workday, type "Browse Jobs" in the search box which will navigate to the internal job posting site. Locate this specific job posting by typing the job requisition number, “R0146242” in the search box.

For more detailed information about DRI, please visit us at www.dri.edu. For questions regarding this position or assistance with your application, please email jobs@dri.edu or call the recruiting office at 775-673-7431.