National Center for Water Quality Research

The National Center for Water Quality Research (NCWQR) at Heidelberg University seeks a highly motivated wetland research technician with experience sampling aquatic ecosystems, preferably wetlands. The staff member will work primarily on a project examining nutrient reductions associated with wetlands constructed throughout Ohio as part of the Ohio Department of Natural Resources H2Ohio Program.  In addition, they will assist with the overall operation and success of the NCWQR.  The ideal candidate will have a passion for environmental sciences, be detail-oriented, and enjoy working in a fast-paced laboratory with a mix of field work and laboratory analysis.

A majority of the individual’s time will be spent on the H2Ohio wetlands project, primarily conducting fieldwork to collect samples and characterize the wetlands, sample preparation and analysis in the laboratory, and follow-up data entry and project organization. Some time may be spent on other activities, especially the Heidelberg Tributary Loading Program. 

1. H2Ohio Wetland Monitoring (75%)
   1. Prepare for and conduct fieldwork from wetlands throughout Northwest Ohio, including water and soil/sediment collection, water sensor analysis and downloads, physical measurements, and overall general observations. 
   1. Assist with laboratory water analysis of wetland samples
   1. Manage data entry and back up following field work
   1. Assist with updates to monitoring protocols and plans as needed
   1. Assist with data analysis
   1. Attend project meetings and workshops
2. Other field and laboratory activities (15%)
3. As needed, assist with the Heidelberg Tributary Loading Program sample preparation and analysis, data management, field station maintenance and repair, and weekly sample collection.  
4. Assist with other laboratory projects and the private well testing program (see more at https://ncwqr.org/)
5. Education and Outreach (10%)
6. Train and supervise student interns
7. Assist students with independent research projects

The successful candidate will have demonstrated experience and qualifications, including:

1. Completion of a Bachelor of Science in the Natural Sciences, Engineering, or a related field.
2. Knowledge and excitement of wetland ecosystems and experience conducting field research either as an independent study or as part of a class.   
3. Experience in sampling wetlands, using handheld sensors and chemical analysis to quantify nutrient concentrations in water, preferred.
4. Ability to work in adverse field conditions and to lift equipment and samples weighing up to 50 lbs.
5. Must have a valid driver’s license and be willing to work a flexible schedule. 

The wetland research technician will be hired on a year-round appointment with full employee benefits with guaranteed funding for 2 years. The NCWQR is a research arm of the science departments at Heidelberg University, which is a private, comprehensive Master’s institution located in Tiffin in northwestern Ohio. For consideration, or to obtain additional information, please visit https://www.heidelberg.edu/careers. For questions or more information, contact Laura Johnson– ljohnson@heidelberg.edu. Candidates should upload a cover letter describing why they’re interested in this position, a current resume, and the contact information for three references. Review of candidates will begin March 21, 2022 and will continue until the position has been filled.