Research Technician I-II

About the role

The Research Technician I or II will contribute to ongoing research with the Coastal Conservation and Restoration Ecology Group at the Harte Research Institute. This position supports a variety of field and laboratory efforts focused on oyster reefs and other coastal habitats. The Technician will assist with sample collection, processing, and data management in support of scientific studies aimed at understanding and restoring coastal ecosystems. The role involves a fast-paced, hands-on work environment, and applicants should be comfortable with physically active fieldwork including wading, boating, and working outdoors in variable conditions. This position may be filled at the Research Technician I or Research Technician II level; final classification will be based on the selected candidate's education, experience, and qualifications.

Responsibilities

• Research (60% effort): Process samples in the laboratory (e.g., sorting benthic fauna, analyzing oyster tissue for disease, filtering water for chlorophyll and TSS, preparing sediments for stable isotope analysis); identify invertebrate organisms using dichotomous keys; participate in field research (typically 1‑2 days per week) including water and biological sample collection from boats or shoreline; operate University vehicles to transport personnel and equipment; perform other duties as assigned.
• Operations (20% effort): Maintain and troubleshoot laboratory and field equipment; keep laboratory spaces clean, organized, and well‑stocked; track inventory and coordinate ordering of consumables, field gear, and outreach materials; maintain organized and accurate data records; coordinate and provide logistical support for field activities (preparing equipment, loading vehicles, ensuring safety protocols); operate University vehicles and conduct field sampling/research via boats.
• Support (20% effort): Coordinate and participate in educational outreach events (tabling, hands‑on demonstrations, community engagement); maintain updated outreach materials and ensure supplies/equipment are ready; assist with laboratory tours (preparing spaces, guiding visitors, communicating research); provide internal support for reporting (gathering information, locating records, summarizing activities); assist in identifying and troubleshooting logistical or operational issues and contribute to developing effective solutions.

Requirements

Research Technician I: High school diploma or GED; two (2) years of related experience in dynamic field settings such as intertidal or estuarine environments (or comparable experience); valid driver's license; willingness and ability to travel as needed and work long/nonstandard hours during fieldwork; excellent written and verbal communication skills; strong organizational skills and attention to detail; ability to lift and carry objects up to 50 pounds.

Research Technician II: High school diploma or GED; three (3) years of relevant experience in dynamic field settings (or comparable experience); valid driver's license; willingness and ability to travel as needed and work long/nonstandard hours during fieldwork; excellent written and verbal communication skills; strong organizational skills and attention to detail; ability to lift and carry objects up to 50 pounds.

Skills

Preferred qualifications: Bachelor's degree in a related field; field and/or laboratory experience with Eastern oyster (Crassostrea virginica) and other benthic invertebrates; competence in identification and classification of invertebrates using dichotomous keys; current valid SCUBA diving certification; experience operating and trailering small vessels; hands‑on experience maintaining laboratory and field equipment; familiarity with data entry and quality control procedures using Microsoft Excel; educational outreach experience, including ability to communicate research concepts to a broad audience.

Pay

Research Technician I: up to $16.25 hourly (up to $33,800 annually).
Research Technician II: up to $20.67 hourly (up to $42,993.60 annually).

Benefits

• Medical: $0‑$30 per month for employee‑only coverage after university contribution ($920 value); up to 83% of premium covered for employee/spouse, employee/children, employee/family.
• Dental & Vision, Life Insurance, Accidental D&D, Long Term Disability, Flexible Spending Account, Dependent Care Spending Account.
• Dual Career Partner Program, On‑campus Wellness Opportunities.
• Work Life Solutions: counseling, assistance, financial and legal resources.
• Tuition Benefits: Public Loan Forgiveness, Book scholarships, 100% tuition coverage for up to 18 credit hours per fiscal year.
• Retirement: Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS) or Optional Retirement Plan (ORP); Voluntary Tax Deferred Account/Deferred Compensation Plan.
• Time Off: 8+ hours vacation per month, 8 hours sick leave per month, 8 hours birthday leave, 12‑15 paid holidays per year.