Laboratory and Research Specialist II

Job Description

The School of Plant and Environmental Sciences in the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences seeks to hire a full-time Laboratory and Research Specialist with expertise in Agro-environmental Sensors and Electronics. This position serves as a primary research support specialist for instrumentation and data management in agricultural and environmental systems. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, designing, deploying and maintaining instruments and networks devoted to environmental sensing (e.g., soil moisture, stream flow/chemistry, greenhouse gas emissions, sap flux, GPS-and/or RFID-based tracking); implementing cutting-edge environmental sensors and methods; assisting with data processing and analysis; implementing database management practices; recognizing and prioritizing research needs; working cooperatively with other team members; and assisting others with proper means and methods for accurately and safely meeting research tasks and objectives.

Required Qualifications

Bachelor's in science or engineering or related study or equivalent training, experience; Ability to lift up to 30 lbs. and perform strenuous work under adverse environmental conditions; Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively and effectively with others; Demonstrated organizational skills and ability to manage detailed and complex tasks with good results; Experience with environmental sensors and equipment; Proven excellence in outreach, verbal and written skills; Virginia Driver's License required with clear driving record.

Preferred Qualifications

Data management tools such as R. Python, MySQL and/or MatLab Electronics circuits and printed circuit board (PCB) design and development; Micro-controller and/or mini-computer experience (e.g., Arduino, Raspberry Pl.); Computer programming experience

Pay Band

4

Overtime Status

Non-Exempt: Eligible for overtime

Appointment Type

Regular

Salary Information

52,000-54,000

Hours per week

40

Review Date

04/20/2025

Additional Information

The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.

About Virginia Tech

Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight undergraduate colleges, a school of medicine, a veterinary medicine college, Graduate School, and Honors College. The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including the Innovation Campus in Northern Virginia; the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke; sites in Newport News and Richmond; and numerous Extension offices and research centers. A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $500 million in research annually.

Virginia Tech endorses and encourages participation in professional development opportunities and university shared governance. These valuable contributions to university shared governance provide important representation and perspective, along with opportunities for unique and impactful professional development.