One of the major challenges the world faces is how to provide sustainable sources of energy that meet societal needs as the population continues to grow. The Center for Advanced Bioenergy and Bioproducts Innovation (CABBI) will develop efficient ways to grow bioenergy crops, transform biomass into valuable chemicals, and market the resulting biofuels and other bioproducts. The CABBI is looking for a full-time Field and Laboratory Specialist who will support group research activities through building field experiment platforms, fabricating necessary accessories, installing and maintaining instruments and sensors, conducting field measurements, collecting field data, processing field samples, and closely working with other lab members on different experimental works.
The University of Illinois is an Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action employer. Minorities, women, veterans and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply. For more information, visit http://go.illinois.edu/EEO.
MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES –
Establish and maintain automatic ground observation systems (spectrometers, cameras, environmental sensors, vegetation sensors, soil sensors, etc.) in Illinois.
Routine monitoring, inspection, troubleshooting and repair are required to ensure all system components collect data correctly and continuously throughout the project period.
Conduct manual field measurements and sample collections using different instruments/tools, and compile, process, organize and document collected data and samples in the laboratory.
Coordinate and assist lab members with field, airborne and laboratory experiments, particularly with regards to instrument installation, uninstallation, maintenance, calibration, operation and other necessary materials and supplies.
Collect, label and process samples from satellite images to facilitate related researches.
QUALIFICATIONS –
Education – Required: Bachelor’s degree. Preferred: Master’s degree in environmental science, ecology, agriculture or related fields.
Experience – Required: A minimum of six months’ machinery operation or engineering work experience. Preferred: Research experience in the field and in the laboratory; experience working on farms and with farmers
Training, Licenses or Certifications – Required: A valid driver’s license is required due to traveling to research sites throughout Illinois. Training will be provided as needed.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities – Ability to work effectively as both a team member/leader and independently with minimal supervision. Attention to detail is highly required to ensure valid research data. Basic computer skills (MS Word, Excel). Effective communication, organizational and personal relations skills. Ability to travel to research sites throughout Illinois; pre-dawn, sunset and weekend fieldwork are sometimes needed. Knowledge on environmental, ecology, agriculture, or related fields.
Environmental Demands – Work will take place in both the field and laboratory settings. Ability to work in inclement weather including heat, humidity, biting insects, etc. Ability to conduct manual labor. Position involves carrying equipment weighing up to 30 pounds. Ability to walk on unstable field surfaces. Salary: Commensurate with experience and qualifications
Status: Full-time academic professional, grant-supported appointment renewable annually pending continued funding and satisfactory progress within the position. Qualified individuals will be eligible to receive vacation, sick, and personal leave; retirement through the State Universities Retirement System; and group health, dental, vision and life insurance.
Start Date: As soon as possible after the close date
Applications must be received by March 13, 2020. To apply, all candidates must submit an online profile through https://jobs.illinois.edu by the close of the posting period. Qualified candidates must upload a letter of which details qualifications noted above, resume and the names and contact information of three professional references. All requested information must be submitted for your application to be considered. Incomplete applications will not be reviewed. For further information, please contact Erica Hanson, Human Resources, [email protected].
The University of Illinois conducts criminal background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer.
As a qualifying federal contractor, the University of Illinois System uses E-Verify to verify employment eligibility.