Job Title
Research Technician I-II
Agency
Texas A&M University - Corpus Christi
Department
Harte Research Institute
Proposed Minimum Salary
Commensurate
Job Location
Corpus Christi, Texas
Job Type
Staff
Job Description
TAMU-CC is a dynamic university designated as both a
Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) and Minority-Serving Institution
(MSI) with approximately 11,000 students from 47 states and 54
foreign nations. We employ over 1,400 full-time and 2,000 part-time
Islanders (including students/GAs). The University attracts highly
talented faculty and staff and offers an array of undergraduate and
graduate degrees, including doctoral programs. As a member of the
Texas A&M University System, TAMU-CC benefits from a range of
resources, increased visibility and influence, and opportunities to
collaborate in mutually beneficial ways with peers across member
institutions and associated agencies.
TAMU-CC's beautiful campus is located on a 240-acre island on
Corpus Christi Bay and was ranked #1 College by the Sea by Best
College Reviews. Our natural setting is enhanced by its modern,
attractive, and state-of-the-art classroom buildings and support
facilities.
PURPOSE
The Research Technician I or II will contribute to ongoing research
with the Coastal Conservation and Restoration Ecology Group at the
Harte Research Institute. This position supports a variety of field
and laboratory efforts focused on oyster reefs and other coastal
habitats. The Technician will assist with sample collection,
processing, and data management in support of scientific studies
aimed at understanding and restoring coastal ecosystems. The role
involves a fast-paced, hands-on work environment, and applicants
should be comfortable with physically active fieldwork including
wading, boating, and working outdoors in variable conditions. This
position may be filled at the Research Technician I or Research
Technician II level. Final classification will be determined based
on the selected candidate's education, experience, and
qualifications in accordance with applicable TAMU System job
profile requirements.
DESCRIPTION
Functional Area 1: Research
Percent Effort: 60%
- Process samples in the laboratory (e.g., sorting benthic fauna,
analyzing oyster tissue for disease, filtering water for
chlorophyll and TSS, and preparing sediments for stable isotope
analysis).
Identify invertebrate organisms using dichotomous keys.
Participate in field research, typically 1-2 days per week,
including water and biological sample collection from boats or the
shoreline. Fieldwork involves physical effort and often requires
time in the water.
Operate University vehicles to safely transport personnel and
equipment in support of field sampling and research
activities.
Perform other duties as assigned
Functional Area 2: Operations
Percent Effort: 20%
- Maintain and troubleshoot laboratory and field equipment.
- Keep laboratory spaces clean, organized, and well-stocked.
- Track inventory and coordinate ordering of consumables, field
gear, and outreach materials.
- Maintain organized and accurate data records.
- Coordinate and provide logistical support for field activities,
including preparing equipment, loading vehicles, and ensuring
safety protocols are followed.
- Operate University vehicles and conduct field sampling/research
via boats
Functional Area 3: Support
Percent Effort: 20%
- Coordinate and participate in educational outreach events,
including tabling, hands-on demonstrations, and community
engagement activities.
- Maintain updated outreach materials and ensure that supplies
and equipment and ready for use.
- Assist with laboratory tours by preparing spaces, guiding
visitors, and helping communicate research activities.
- Provide internal support for reporting by gathering
information, locating records, or summarizing activities as
needed.
- Assist in identifying and troubleshooting logistical or
operational issues and contribute to the development of effective
solutions.
QUALIFICATIONS
Research Technician I
- High school diploma or GED.
- Two (2) years of related experience working in dynamic field
settings such as intertidal or estuarine environments, or
comparable experience in a related field.
- Valid driver's license
- Willingness and ability to travel as needed and work
long/nonstandard hours during fieldwork and sample collection.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Ability to lift and carry objects weighing up to 50
pounds.
Research Technician II
- High school diploma or GED.
- Three (3) years of relevant experience working in dynamic field
settings such as intertidal or estuarine environments, or
comparable experience in a related field.
- Valid driver's license
- Willingness and ability to travel as needed and work
long/nonstandard hours during fieldwork and sample collection.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Ability to lift and carry objects weighing up to 50
pounds.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor's degree in a related field.
- Field and/or laboratory experience with Eastern oyster
(Crassostrea virginica) and other benthic invertebrates.
- Competence in identification and classification of
invertebrates using dichotomous keys.
- Current valid SCUBA diving certification.
- Experience operating and trailering small vessels.
- Hands-on experience maintaining laboratory and field
equipment.
- Familiarity with data entry and quality control procedures
using Microsoft Excel.
- Educational outreach experience, including the ability to
communicate research concepts to a broad audience.
SALARY: Commensurate based on experience and
qualifications.
Research Technician I
- Up to $16.25 Hourly (Up to $33,800 Annually,
Approximately)
Research Technician II
- Up to $20.67 Hourly (Up to $42,993.60 Annually,
Approximately)
NOTE: Employment may be impacted by the Presidential
proclamation issued on September 19, 2025 and the moratorium issued
by Texas Governor Abbott on January 27, 2026.
BENEFITS (rules, policies, eligibility apply)
From our generous benefits package
and professional development opportunities, to our retirement
programs and our commitment to service excellence, the Island
University is an engaging and rewarding place to work.
INSURANCE:
- Medical$0 - $30 per month for Employee Only coverage after
university contribution ($920 value).Up to 83% of premium covered
by the university: Employee and Spouse Employee and Children
Employee and Family coverage
- Dental & Vision
- Life Insurance, Accidental D&D, Long Term Disability,
Flexible Spending Account and Day Care Spending Account
DUAL CAREER PARTNER
PROGRAM
ON-CAMPUS WELLNESS
OPPORTUNITIES
Work Life
Solutions:
- Counseling, Work Life Assistance, Financial Resources, and
Legal Resources
Tuition
Benefits:
- Public Loan Forgiveness
- Book scholarships
- 100% tuition coverage for up to 18 credit hours per fiscal year
(other rules may apply).
Retirement:
- Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS) or Optional Retirement
Plan (ORP)
- Voluntary Tax Deferred Account/Deferred Compensation Plan
Time
Off:
- 8+ hours of vacation paid time off every month.
- 8 hours of sick leave time off every month.
- 8 hours of paid time off for Birthday leave.
- 12-15 paid holidays each year.
All positions are security-sensitive. Applicants are subject to a
criminal history investigation, and employment is contingent upon
the institution's verification of credentials and/or other
information required by the institution's procedures, including the
completion of the criminal history check.
Equal Opportunity/Veterans/Disability Employer.
To apply, visit https://tamus.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/en-US/TAMUCC_External/job/Corpus-Christi-TX/Research-Technician-I-II_R-097593-2
je-d87abbcb389741a7a686318dfa370f9d
