Title: Field Research Leader, Coastal Wetland Scientist

Department Org: Environmental Sciences - 101250

Employee Classification: U1 - Unclassified PSA FT

Bargaining Unit: Professional Staff Association

Primary Location: MC AC

Shift:  1

Posted Salary: Salary commensurable based on experience

Job Description:

The 100% externally funded Coastal Wetland Scientist and Field Lead will conduct research on wetlands in northwest Ohio associated with the University of Toledo, its Lake Erie Center, and the multi-university LEARN (Lake Erie and Aquatic Research Network) associated with the H2Ohio wetland restoration initiative. The Coastal Wetland Scientist and Field Lead will be based at the Main Campus and will lead sediment and water quality sampling and analysis efforts on a set of nearby wetlands. They will also facilitate visits to the wetlands from collaborating wetland LEARN teams and supervise periodic calibration and deployment of water quality instrumentation in restored wetlands. They will be responsible for the purchase and maintenance of equipment, fulfilling sampling obligations, and supervising undergraduate student workers. The coordinator will attend LEARN meetings, communicate, and coordinate with faculty and LEARN staff across the overall wetland effort, and will provide data and reports to their supervisor and the LEARN organizers. The position is initially available until June 30, 2025, with potential renewal pending continuing external funding.

Minimum Qualifications:

Education/experience/licensing:
• MS in Environmental Sciences, ecology, biology, geology, or related field completed by start date. PhDs are welcome to apply.
• Prior experience conducting water or soil-related research.
• Field sampling in wetlands requires a moderate degree of physical fitness and strength. Must be able to lift, carry, and launch a small vessel (canoe or kayak 50-70 lbs) for short distances over uneven terrain.
• Use of computer programs used in research, including the Microsoft Office Package and the ability to use MS Word to generate reports, MS Excel to analyze data, and MS PowerPoint to prepare and give scientific research presentations. Experience with R, Python or MATLAB statistical package preferred.
• Use, maintenance, calibration, and deployment of water quality sensors such as YSI Exo.
• Use of ArcGIS software to interpret and possibly edit maps of field sites.
• Ability to navigate and operate in wet and dry field sites, including wetlands, by wading and in floating craft such as canoes, kayaks, and boats.
• Valid driver’s license.

Communication and other skills:
• Effective communication skills (oral and written)
• Ability to work without close supervision and to make decisions concerning weather conditions and other logistical factors
• Ability to work closely with H2O co-workers, students, faculty and other LEC staff to maintain research efficiency of the project.

Conditions of Employment:

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:

The University of Toledo is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer. The University of Toledo does not discriminate in employment, educational programs, or activities on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, age, ancestry, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, military or veteran status, disability, familial status, or political affiliation. 

The University is dedicated to the goal of building a culturally diverse and pluralistic faculty and staff committed to teaching and working in a multicultural environment and strongly encourages applications from women, minorities, individuals with disabilities, dual-career professionals and covered veterans.

The University of Toledo provides reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities. If you require accommodation to complete this application, or for testing or interviewing, please contact the Human Resources Department at 419-530-4747 between the hours of 8:30AM and 5:00PM or apply online for an accommodation request. 

Computer access is available at most public libraries and at the Office of Human Resources located in the Center for Administrative Support on the Main Campus of the University of Toledo.