Assistant Large River Ecologist, Illinois Natural History Survey (INHS) Prairie Research Institute (PRI), University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
INHS is seeking an individual to oversee the water quality component of the Long Term Resource Monitoring Program (LTRMP), which monitors the natural resources along an eighty-mile reach of the Illinois River. This position will be located at the Illinois River Biological Station in Havana, Illinois (http://wwx.inhs.illinois.edu/fieldstations/irbs/). Project description: Incumbent will serve as field crew leader/coordinator for Water Quality component of the Long Term Resource Monitoring (LTRMP), an element of the Upper Mississippi River Restoration (UMRR). This position is focused on monitoring the status and trends of selected water quality parameters of the La Grange Reach of the Illinois River. Additional research into other areas of study related to water quality and its effects on native biota will be encouraged. Funding for these efforts is made available through long-term agreements with US Army Corps of Engineers and The US Geological Survey. Job description: In cooperation with the Field Station Director, the successful candidate will collect and report on water quality data utilizing the Long Term Resource Monitoring Program (LTRMP) sampling protocols and focused research (http://www.umesc.usgs.gov/data_library/water_quality/water_quality_page.htm l). There will also be coordination and collaboration with other related projects (Ichthyologic, Limnological, and Benthological). Supervision of full and part- time assistants in lab work, as well as crews in boat-based field sampling efforts. Maintain field and laboratory equipment and facility. Analyze river water quality using modeling techniques (Hydraulic/hydrologic, spatial, watershed, or habitat). Maintain effective working relationships with the project sponsors, the field station director, and other employees. Qualifications: Required Bachelors degree in Biology, Environmental Science, Hydrology, Limnology, Engineering, or related field with at least 5 years post graduate experience, or a Masters degree involving research applicable to large river ecosystems. Must be familiar with standard water quality sampling protocols and equipment (sondes, data loggers, software); direct experience with data collection, entry, analysis, and reporting; experience trailering, launching, and operating boats on commercially navigable waters; strong interpersonal and communication skills. Preferred Training and/or practical experience in at least one of the following areas: Modeling skills related to analysis of river water quality (hydraulic/hydrologic, spatial, watershed or habitat) or, alternately, environmental toxicology or ecotoxicology; familiarity with GIS-based and statistical analysis of aquatic data; familiarity with basic concepts and theories of large river ecology; knowledge of LTRMP sampling protocols. Must have a valid drivers license and the ability to swim. Salary: $32,000 - $36,000 per year commensurate with experience and education. This is a regular, academic professional, full-time grant supported 12-month positions. The estimated starting date is August 16, 2014 (negotiable). Benefits: Generous vacation and sick leave. State Universities Retirement System. Group health, dental, vision and life insurance. Applications must be received by May 30, 2014. 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, curriculum vitae, working e-mail address, and the names, addresses, phone numbers, and e-mail addresses of three professional references. All requested information must be submitted for your application to be considered. Incomplete information will not be reviewed. Applications may be reviewed prior to closing. For further information please contact Erica Hanson, Human Resources, Illinois Natural History Survey, 217-333-6897, [email protected]. For technical questions, please contact: Dr. Andrew Casper, Search Committee Member (http://wwx.inhs.illinois.edu/directory/show/afcasper). Illinois is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, age, status as a protected veteran, or status as a qualified individual with a disability. Illinois welcomes individuals with diverse backgrounds, experiences, and ideas who embrace and value diversity and inclusivity (www.inclusiveillinois.illinois.edu
