What are the responsibilities and job description for the Research Assistant position at Texas A&M University Corpus Christi?
Job Title
Research Assistant
Agency
Texas A&M University - Corpus Christi
Department
Harte Research Institute For Gulf Of Mexico Studies
Proposed Minimum Salary
Commensurate
Job Location
Corpus Christi, Texas
Job Type
Staff
Job Description
TAMU-CC is a dynamic university designated as both a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) and Minority-Serving Institution (MSI) with approximately 11,000 students from 47 states and 54 foreign nations. We employ over 1,400 full-time and 2,000 part-time Islanders (including students/GAs). The University attracts highly talented faculty and staff and offers an array of undergraduate and graduate degrees, including doctoral programs. As a member of the Texas A&M University System, TAMU-CC benefits from a range of resources, increased visibility and influence, and opportunities to collaborate in mutually beneficial ways with peers across member institutions and associated agencies.
TAMU-CC’s beautiful campus is located on a 240-acre island on Corpus Christi Bay and was ranked #1 College by the Sea by Best College Reviews. Our natural setting is enhanced by its modern, attractive, and state-of-the-art classroom buildings and support facilities.
PURPOSE
The Research Assistant will support grant-funded laboratory and field data collection efforts in the Coastal Ecosystem Processes lab.
DESCRIPTION
Functional Area 1: Sample Processing and Analysis
Percent Effort: 50%
Job Duties
- Preparation of materials necessary for water sample collection and processing
- Water quality sample processing
- Analysis of chlorophyll, suspended solids and other water quality samples TBD
- Assist with other laboratory duties as necessary
Functional Area 2: Field Sampling
Percent Effort: 40%
Job Duties
- Conduct field sampling and research using motor vehicles, boats and kayaks, which may involve driving, and managing equipment of moderate weight during activities.
- Collection of water samples
- Operation of water quality sondes
Functional Area 3: Data Analysis
Percent Effort: 10%
Job Duties
- Curation of water quality sonde data
- QA/QC of water quality sonde data
- Analysis of water quality sonde data
QUALIFICATIONS
- B.S. in Marine Science, Environmental Science or related field
- Experience with water quality sample collection, processing and analysis.
- Experience with software such as Microsoft Excel, Word, Access, and R.
- Demonstrated ability to calibrate and operate water quality sondes
- Demonstrated ability to conduct chlorophyll analysis
- Strong attention to detail
- Ability to work on interdisciplinary research team
- Strong written and spoken communication skills.
- Ability to conduct research tasks in a variety of weather conditions.
- Ability to multitask and work cooperatively with others.
- Ability to lift moderately heavy objects.
- Work beyond normal business hours and/or work on weekends as required by research projects
- Ability to travel as needed for research field sampling.
- Ability to drive university vehicles.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Master of Science degree in Environmental Science, Marine Science, or related field.
- Ability to identify and enumerate phytoplankton and/or ability to operate a flow cytometer for phytoplankton analyses
Note: This position is grant-funded. Continued employment is contingent upon continued funding.
SALARY: $3,657.34- 3,750 approx. monthly ($43,888- 45,000 approx. annually)
BENEFITS (rules, policies, eligibility apply)
From our generous
benefits package
and professional development opportunities, to our retirement programs and our commitment to service excellence, the Island University is an engaging and rewarding place to work.
Insurance
- Medical
- $0 - $30 per month for Employee Only coverage after university contribution ($920 value).
- Up to 83% of premium covered by the university:
- Employee and Spouse
- Employee and Children
- Employee and Family coverage
- Dental & Vision
- Life Insurance, Accidental D&D, Long Term Disability, Flexible Spending Account and Day Care Spending Account
On-campus wellness opportunities
Dual Career Partner Program
Work Life Solutions:
- Counseling, Work Life Assistance, Financial Resources, and Legal Resources
Tuition Benefits:
- Public Loan Forgiveness
- Book scholarships
- 100% tuition coverage for up to 18 credit hours per fiscal year (other rules may apply).
Retirement
- Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS) or Optional Retirement Plan (ORP)
- Voluntary Tax Deferred Account/Deferred Compensation Plan
Time Off:
- 8 hours of vacation paid time off every month.
- 8 hours of sick leave time off every month.
- 8 hours of paid time off for Birthday leave.
- 12-15 paid holidays each year.
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.
Salary : $3,657 - $3,750
