University of Wisconsin System

ATTENTION:

Researcher I: Field Biologist, Lake Superior Research Institute

Reports To: Research Center Program Manager

UW-Superior is committed to making excellence inclusive in every aspect of the institution. Diversity, inclusion and equity are prioritized learning resources for all community members. We strive to offer quality programs in an environment of trust and cooperation that centers on the worth of all individuals. The University is seeking candidates who will contribute to our mission.

Make a difference working with environmental researchers in the Great Lakes Region The Lake Superior Research Institute has been with the UWS campus for over 55 years. We are dedicated to conducting environmental research that benefits the people, industries and natural resources of the Upper Midwest and Great Lakes Region. The successful candidate will be passionate about conducting scientific research that drives environmental policy and advances our knowledge of global aquatic nuisance species research. Candidates that demonstrate the ability to problem solve, think independently, prioritize research objectives and schedules, and work collaboratively with a diverse team are encouraged to apply. The work you'll do is more than just a job.

POSITION:

Researcher I, RE040, Academic Staff, Renewable, 100%, 12-month Appointment, 2 Vacancies

POSITION SUMMARY:

Researcher I Field Biologist (water quality) provides technical expertise to fundamental and/or applied scientific research under the direction of senior research personnel. Serves as a field biologist for the Lake Superior Research Institute's (LSRI) Great Waters Research Collaborative (GWRC) program and other projects.

The individuals in this position will be part of a team sampling water in Great Lakes ports for chemical and biological parameters. Data from these field events will be used to help regulators and scientists understand the challenges ballast water treatment systems face in Great Lakes ports. This data is critical to informing ballast water treatment developers as they develop treatment systems and the United States EPA as it develops ballast water treatment standards for the shipping industry.

UW-STANDARD JOB DESCRIPTION DUTIES:

• Collects and analyzes basic research data, conducts experiments and interviews, and documents results according to established policies and procedures.
• Conducts and coordinates research in support of water quality testing in Great Lakes ports.
• Conducts literature reviews, prepares reports and materials, and disseminates information to appropriate entities and assists with publications.
• Guarantees quality assurance and quality control in all aspects of the research area, including during field collections and research facility operations.
• Trains individuals and groups on equipment operations, research protocols, and techniques within a specialized laboratory or research area.
• Assists with the development of research methodologies and procedures.
• Identifies concerns and recommends solutions to leadership.
• Assists in developing grant applications and proposals to secure research funding.

Other Duties:

• Complete required trainings and professional development as assigned.
• Other duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Knowledge and ability to collect physical, chemical, and biological samples in a field setting.
• Knowledge and ability to obtain and prepare sampling supplies and equipment for sampling events.
• Ability to plan and organize travel and sampling logistics for field testing in various Great Lakes ports.
• Candidate must be willing and able to travel. Travel throughout the Great Lakes region occurs monthly, including occasional international travel to Canada. Trips are typically 2 days to 1 week in duration.
• With appropriate training, ability to trailer and operate a small motorboat for field sampling events.
• Ability to problem solve and balance multiple priorities.
• Knowledge and ability to work with a diverse team of colleagues (e.g., co-workers, student employees, researchers, stakeholders, agency staff, etc.).
• Ability to comfortably communicate at a professional level with diverse groups of people (e.g., ship crew, project partners, colleagues, students, researchers, stakeholders).
• Ability to maintain a positive attitude and adapt to rapidly changing situations (e.g., schedules, weather, research objectives, etc.).
• Ability to work both independently and in collaboration with team members to meet projected deadlines.
• Skilled in use of word processing software and use of spreadsheets to enter, manipulate and report data.
• Ability and willingness to work outdoors year-round in a wide variety of weather conditions.
• Ability to set up lab equipment in non-traditional settings.
• Given training and necessary safety equipment, ability to work in an industrial setting (i.e., on a large ship with tight quarters, variety of climates, loud noises).
• Ability to lift 40 lbs. and climb steep stairs while carrying sampling equipment.
• Ability and willingness to work weekends and nights.
• Ability to operate a state vehicle per state regulations within six months of start date.
• Able to obtain a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) card and passport.
• Willingness to serve the mission of UWS and LSRI by being a representative at activities such as Science Fest, or Campus Preview Days.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS INCLUDE:

• Bachelor's degree in biology or a closely related field (e.g., ecology, limnology, environmental science).
• Experience collecting and analyzing physical, biological, and chemical data in a field, remote, or industrial setting.
• Experience planning and coordinating logistics associated with field sampling events.
• Experience documenting, interpreting, summarizing, and analyzing field data and maintaining well-organized written and electronic records.
• Valid driver's license

This position is currently ineligible for H1-B sponsorship. A qualification for this position includes independent eligibility to work within the United States upon hire date.

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS INCLUDE:

• 2 years of post-degree biological research experience.
• Experience preparing, operating, calibrating, and maintaining scientific field equipment such as: zooplankton nets, ponar grabs, multiparameter sondes, flow meters, survey equipment, GPS units, and cameras.
• Experience trailering and operating a small motorboat for field work.
• Experience applying quality assurance/quality control requirements for successful sample collection and analysis.
• Experience drafting standard operating procedures (SOPs) and test plans.
• Experience as lead author for technical reports.
• Experience training and mentoring staff and student employees.
• Experience using basic statistical analysis to identify patterns and trends.
• Experience working with aquatic invasive species.

SALARY & BENEFITS: 

Salary range for this position is: $45,000 - $50,000 annually. Specific benefit information can be found here. A snapshot of benefits offered for this position include:

Paid Time Off:

• 176 hours of Vacation
• 36 hours of Personal
• 96 hours of Sick Leave
• 9 legal holidays

State Group Health Insurance Plans:

• Health Plan, High Deductible, or Access Plans available
• Flexible Spending or Health Savings Accounts

Access to Additional Insurance:

• Dental
• Vision
• Life
• Income Continuation

Retirement Plans Through Wisconsin Retirement System:

• 6.90% contribution with employer match
• Vested at 5 years (must meet eligibility requirements)

Other Benefits

• Employee Assistant Program (EAP) - provides free and confidential resources to address personal and work-related concerns for employee and their immediate family members.
• On-site wellness resources and opportunities through the Pruitt Center for Mindfulness and Well-Being, Marcovich Wellness Center, and Department of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion.

STARTING DATE:

As soon as possible.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

For additional information about UW-Superior, visit www.uwsuper.edu;

For additional information about this position, contact Roberta Grube at rgrube2@uwsuper.edu 

APPLICATION PROCESS:

Review of all complete applications will commence at 4:30pm on May 13, 2024 and will continue until the position is filled. Once an application is received, your user profile information remains in UW-Superior's Talent Management System for future submissions.

To Apply:

1. Select UW-Careers at www.careers.wisconsin.edu.

a. Internal applicants: select the internal applicant link. Registration for account not required.

b. External applicants: select the external applicant link and register for an account.

2. In the Search Jobs box enter the job number #24-81: Researcher I Field Biologist (water quality) - LSRI and hit Enter.

3. Click on the Position title.

4. Click on the Apply for Job button.

At any time, you may select the Save as Draft button to save your current progress. Once you've Submitted your application, the ability to change submitted materials will not exist.

Internal Applicants:

1. Sign in using your login and password.

2. Complete steps one through ten where you can upload the following required documents:

a. Cover Letter

b. Resume

c. Names and contact information for only three (3) professional references

d. Unofficial transcripts of all degrees earned.

External Applicants:

1. Click on the Register Now link to create your username and password.

2. Complete steps one through ten where you can upload the following required documents:

a. Cover Letter 

b. Resume

c. Names and contact information for only three (3) professional references

d. Unofficial transcripts of all degrees earned.

All Applicants:

1. To submit your resume, cover letter, etc., you must add the document as an attachment.

2. Click Next and complete the Preferences section - this tab is optional.

3. Click Next to complete the Online Questionnaire - this tab is required.

4. Click Next and if required, provide the contact information for three professional references by clicking the Add Reference link.

5. Click Next and select your preference for the Request for Confidentiality section.

6. Click on Next and complete the next section titled How did you find out about the position?

7. Click Next and complete the Self-Identity sections - this tab is optional.

8. Click Next and review your information.

9. Once all sections are completed and reviewed, click on Submit; your application has been submitted.

Refer to the following links for troubleshooting:

• Internal Applicant: https://kb.uwss.wisconsin.edu/21544
• External Applicant: https://kb.uwss.wisconsin.edu/19833
• Frequently Asked Questions: https://kb.uwss.wisconsin.edu/21900#toc4

UW-Superior, A Superior Place:

The University will not reveal the identities of applicants who request confidentiality in writing, except that the identities of "final candidates" must be revealed upon request. According to the Attorney General, "final candidates" under Wisconsin law means the five candidates who are considered most qualified for the position. See Wis. Stat. Sec. 19.36(7)(a).

The University reserves the right to check additional references with notices given to the candidates at the appropriate time in the process.

Employment will require a criminal background check. A pending criminal charge or conviction will not necessarily disqualify an applicant. In compliance with the Wisconsin Fair Employment Act, the University does not discriminate based on an arrest or conviction record.

Employment will also require a sexual harassment reference check. The reference check process includes asking the final candidate and most recent supervisor questions regarding sexual violence and sexual harassment. Final candidates with previous employment within the UW System and State of WI agencies will be subject to additional reference checks.

Employment is subject to federal laws that require verification of identity and legal right to work in the United States as required by the Immigration Reform and Control Act.

For UW-Superior campus safety information and crime statistics, review the Annual Security Report or contact the University Police Department Safety at 715-394-8114 for a printed copy.

UW-Superior is an AA/EEO/Veterans/Disability employer dedicated to enhancing equity, diversity, and inclusivity.

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