Field Research Manager

Inside Higher Ed; Chapel Hill (NC); On-site; USD 41,328; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Professional training opportunities

Retail and restaurant discounts

Child care savings

Job summary

A prominent research university in Chapel Hill seeks a Field Research Manager for providing research program support for grant portfolios. The role involves implementing project management software, analyzing metrics, and collaborating with cross-functional teams. Candidates should have a relevant four-year degree and strong communication skills. This full-time temporary position offers a salary of $30 per hour and is located in North Carolina. Opportunities for training and exclusive perks are available.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in physical, biological, or environmental science preferred.
• Ability to work independently in a dynamic environment.
• Experience with data visualization is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Provide research program support for grant portfolios.
• Implement database and project management software.
• Analyze performance metrics and develop new metrics.

Skills

Effective communication skills

Project management

Data analytics

Collaboration

Education

Four-year degree in a related major

Job description

Be a Tar Heel!

A global higher education leader in innovative teaching, research and public service, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill consistently ranks as one of the nation’s top public universities. Known for its beautiful campus, world‑class medical care, commitment to the arts and top athletic programs, Carolina is an ideal place to teach, work and learn. One of the best college towns and best places to live in the United States, Chapel Hill has diverse social, cultural, recreation and professional opportunities that span the campus and community. University employees can choose from a wide range of professional training opportunities for career growth, skill development and lifelong learning and enjoy exclusive perks that include numerous retail and restaurant discounts, savings on local child care centers and special rates for performing arts events.

Job Details

• Position Title: Field Research Manager
• Position Type: Temporary Staff (SHRA)
• Full‑time/Part‑time: Full‑Time Temporary
• Hours per week: 40
• Work Schedule: Monday – Friday, 8:00am – 5:00pm
• Location: North Carolina, US
• Salary: $30 per hour
• Proposed Start Date: March 2, 2026
• Estimated Duration Of Appointment: 6 months not to exceed 11 months

Position Summary

The Field Research Manager provides research program support for the NC Collaboratory for their physical and social sciences grant award portfolios.

Responsibilities include implementing new database and project management software programs, migrating legacy files to the new platform, and creating/finalizing internal policies and processes for the department with a primary focus on research grant funding management protocols for both pre‑ and post‑award projects.

This position also analyzes performance metrics and develops new metrics to quantify the effectiveness of internal operations and those of external, grant awardees. Field support is given to rapid response research teams for water and air sampling, as well as to ongoing programs in flood resiliency (grantees at both NCSU and UNCCH), high‑performance computing, artificial intelligence, and those assigned by the Executive Director and Research Directors. Work also involves analyzing and applying LiDAR, digital orthophotos, and other photogrammetric data to support post‑Helene disaster assessment and redevelopment planning. Additional research‑related duties are performed as assigned.

Minimum Education And Experience Requirements

Four year degree with a preference for a related major in a physical science, biological science, environmental science/engineering, occupational safety, industrial technology or closely related science; or an equivalent combination of training and experience. Some positions may require specific certifications or licenses. Specific jobs will require additional minimum training and/or licensing upon selection.

Management Preferences

• Effective communication skills with a diverse range of stakeholders, including department team members, UNC‑CH campus partners, and research grant recipients across North Carolina.
• Strong ability to work independently in a dynamic environment with responsibilities that shift day to day.
• Experience collaborating with large, cross‑functional teams.
• Experience managing projects involving data analytics or data visualization.
• Knowledge of physical or social science operations within North Carolina state agencies.

Special Physical/Mental Requirements

Ability climb stairs and move objects/general material handling equipment weighing up to 50 lbs. with or without reasonable accommodations. Work may require the use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) (i.e. safety shoes, safety glasses, high visibility vest, gloves, and hearing protection) when working in or around fire stations and foam storage facilities.

Campus Security Authority Responsibilities

Not Applicable.