Research Technician-Assistant
Position Description
Job Category
Fulltime Temporary
ExemptOvertimeEligible
Overtime Eligible
Benefits Eligible
Benefit Based
Caltech is a world-renowned science and engineering institute that marshals some of the world's brightest minds and most innovative tools to address fundamental scientific questions. We thrive on finding and cultivating talented people who are passionate about what they do. Join us and be a part of the diverse Caltech community.
Job Summary
The Research Technician Assistant will work under the direction of Professors Hannah Druckenmiller (Economics) and Georgia Gkioxari (Computer Science) to conduct research at the intersection of machine learning and environmental economics/policy. The role will be on a joint project that leverages Earth Observations and large administrative datasets to estimate spatially explicit monetary values of ecosystem services.
Essential Job Duties
- Trains and evaluates machine learning models.
- Downloads and processes large geospatial datasets.
- Implements quasi-experimental research designs.
- Participates in drafting presentations and manuscripts.
- Presents research findings at lab meetings, seminars, and scientific conferences.
- Assists with building databases.
Basic Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in any of the following major fields: economics, computer science, statistics, public policy, or similar quantitative training.
- Some experience with machine learning tools in Python.
- Good communication skills.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience working with big, geospatial, and/or environmental datasets.
- Background or interest in environment or sustainability issues.
- Relevant experience as a research assistant.
Required Documents
- Resume.
Hiring Range
$19.00 - $30.00 Per Hour
The salary of the finalist(s) selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to, internal equity, experience, education, specialty and training.
As one of the largest employers in Pasadena, CA, Caltech is committed to providing comprehensive benefits to eligible employees and their eligible dependents. Our benefits package includes competitive compensation, health, dental, and vision insurance, retirement savings plans, generous paid time off (vacation, holidays, sick time, parental leave, bereavement, etc.), tuition reimbursement, and more. Non-benefit eligible employees will have access to some benefits such as onsite counseling and sick time. Learn more about our benefits and staff perks.
EEO Statement
We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Caltech is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor.
To read more Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) go to eeoc_self_print_poster.pdf.
Disability Accommodations
Caltech complies with the Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). We consider reasonable accommodation measures that may be necessary for eligible applicants and employees to perform the essential functions of a position.
If you would like to request an accommodation to complete this application, interview, or otherwise participate in the employee selection process, please contact Caltech Recruiting at employment@caltech.edu.


