Research Engineering/ Scientist Associate I (4216)

The University of Texas at Austin; Port Aransas (TX); On-site; USD 38,700 - 47,300; Full time

Job summary

A leading academic institution in Port Aransas seeks a Research Engineering/Scientist Associate I to support its Marine Science Institute. This role involves troubleshooting and maintaining scientific equipment, analyzing field samples, and ensuring data integrity. Ideal candidates will have strong technical and communication skills, be capable of performing fieldwork in various conditions, and possess a high school diploma. This full-time position offers a salary starting at $43,000 and includes outdoor work responsibilities.

Qualifications

• Strong troubleshooting and technical skills required.
• Ability to work in extreme weather and lift heavy objects.
• Computer proficiency and data management knowledge needed.

Responsibilities

• Troubleshoot and maintain scientific equipment.
• Prepare laboratory materials and analyze field samples.
• Conduct QA/QC data checks and maintain organized work environment.

Skills

Troubleshooting

Technical skills

Communication

Organizational skills

Time-management

Ability to work independently

Fieldwork capability

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Microsoft 365 Suite

Hand and power tools

Job description

Job Title

Research Engineering/ Scientist Associate I (4216)

Department

Marine Science Institute

Position Open to

All Applicants

Weekly Scheduled Hours

40

FLSA Status

Exempt

Earliest Start Date

May 20, 2026

Position Duration

Expected to Continue Until May 31, 2027

Location

Marine Science Institute – Port Aransas, Texas

Overview

The Mission-Aransas National Estuarine Research Reserve (MAR) at the University of Texas Marine Science Institute (UTMSI) seeks to hire a Research Engineering / Scientist Associate I within the Research & Monitoring Program. MAR is one of 30 reserves that comprise the National Estuarine Research Reserve System, dedicated to research, monitoring, education and stewardship of estuaries and their coastal watersheds.

Purpose

The Research Engineering / Scientist Associate I will work closely with research staff to maintain and implement various aspects of the Environmental Long‑Term Monitoring Program.

Responsibilities

• Troubleshoot, clean, calibrate, deploy and retrieve scientific equipment (e.g., YSI sensors, sondes, handheld meters); service water quality and weather station equipment on a weekly, bi‑weekly or monthly basis per standardized protocols; maintain and repair SWMP station infrastructure and in‑situ instrumentation as required; coordinate and perform research activities related to sample collection (e.g., scheduling, water collection, deployment/retrieval of automated portable water samplers); operate vessels in shallow water conditions along the Texas Coastal Bend, including trailering vessels.
• Prepare laboratory materials and analyze field samples (e.g., prepare sampling containers & filters, water filtration, weigh filters, conduct chlorophyll analysis).
• Retrieve and submit SWMP raw data; conduct QA/QC data checks and generate quarterly/annual metadata files for submission to the NERRS CDMO; ensure all data (water quality, meteorological, nutrient) are entered by the submission deadline.
• Maintain an organized and clean working environment (e.g., wash dishes, stow equipment/supplies); manage equipment inventory and order supplies.
• Train and supervise interns, students and volunteers supporting the SWMP and other MAR programs as needed.
• Assist in program activities of the MAR across all sectors.
• Other duties as assigned.
• Attend an annual week‑long training for NERR SWMP technicians (out of state, fully funded).

Required Qualifications

• Strong troubleshooting, diagnostic, technical, mechanical, and communication skills.
• Ability to work in extreme weather conditions and perform basic fieldwork requiring lifting, pushing and pulling of heavy objects.
• Ability and flexibility to work long and/or irregular hours.
• Comfortable working in both field and laboratory settings.
• Swim capability.
• Self‑directed and solution‑oriented mindset.
• Strong organizational and time‑management skills.
• Ability to work independently and cooperatively with others.
• Basic internet/literature search skills.
• Ability to travel within the state and region for work regularly.
• Ability to attend a week‑long annual training out of state.
• Computer proficiency (Microsoft 365 Suite) and basic data management knowledge.
• High school diploma or equivalent. Candidates with alternative qualifications or non‑traditional career paths may be considered if aptitude and willingness to learn are apparent.

Preferred Qualifications

• At least one year of hands‑on experience in a technical maintenance role (marine, mechanical, electrical or related).
• Ability to read technical manuals, schematics, and wiring diagrams.
• Experience trailering, practicing as crew, operating and captaining vessels up to 24 ft in shallow water conditions.
• Proficiency with hand and power tools.
• Knowledge of water quality sampling and analysis procedures.
• Knowledge of coastal and estuarine ecosystems and processes.

Driving Requirement

This position requires a valid Class C driver’s license. Applicants must provide a current three‑year driving record. Non‑Texas residents must obtain a Texas driver’s license within 30 days of residency. Employees requiring a CDL are subject to drug and alcohol testing.

Salary Range

$43,000 plus adjustment for education and experience.

Working Conditions

Substantial portion of work will occur outdoors, often under adverse weather conditions, including heat, cold, wind and rain. Work may involve chemicals, biohazards, mechanical and electrical hazards. Candidates must lift and manipulate up to 50 pounds (alone or as a team) and be comfortable with backpacking gear to a secondary platform approximately 15 feet above water. Weekend, evening and holiday work may be necessary.

Work Shift

Monday‑Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., with occasional abnormal hours due to fieldwork.

Background Checks

A criminal history background check will be required for finalists under consideration for this position.

Retirement Plan Eligibility

The retirement plan for this position is the Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS), subject to the position being at least 20 hours per week and at least 135 days in length.

Equal Opportunity Employer

The University of Texas at Austin, as an equal‑opportunity/affirmative‑action employer, complies with all applicable federal and state laws regarding nondiscrimination and affirmative action. The University is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all persons and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability, religion, or veteran status in employment, educational programs and activities, and admissions.

Pay Transparency

The University of Texas at Austin will not discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. Employees who have access to compensation information cannot disclose the pay of others unless in specific circumstances such as formal complaints, investigations, or as required by law.