"Scientific Specialist, Research Engagement - Illinois State Water Survey, PRI, Illinois"

Job Summary

Lead research engagement for the WaterOperator.org and Onsite Wastewater Education research assistance programs, including providing technical guidance and oversee the determination of the data and research materials provided through these programs.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Research - Engagement - 40%
  • Work with research program partners and project staff to oversee and implement the WaterOperator.org program, including working directly with operators who contact the program to resolve issues and answer questions.
  • Provide content and lead development of materials provided to environmental health professionals, drillers, water and wastewater operators, onsite wastewater professionals, and other stakeholders.
  • Assist in the development of new materials for the WaterOperator.org and Onsite wastewater Education programs.
  • Assist in implementing social media and other marketing campaigns for the WaterOperator.org and Onsite Wastewater programs, and assist in other ISWS drinking water related activities.
  • Deliver training and provide technical expertise to hourly staff, stakeholders and operators who contact us for information.
• Research - Resolution - 20%
  • Work with ISWS staff to resolve technical issues and comments related to the data and information provided on our WaterOperator.org and onsite wastewater websites related to these systems.
  • Request and evaluate information from internal staff and external experts to resolve data issues and conflicting information related to best practices for water and wastewater professionals.
• Research - Research Program Management - 30%
  • Manage a program for the input of industry information on WaterOperator.org and DecentralizedWastewater.org overseeing student and academic hourly staff as well as coordinate with fulltime staff who are adding information to the projects databases.
  • Train hourlies and staff who are tasked with entering new information into the project database where there is continual advances in the industry and regular changes in best practices requiring an understanding of industry dynamics.
  • Stay ahead of the advances in the water and wastewater, as well as onsite treatment industries to ensure the relevance of the project websites in support of the professionals that work in this space as it relates to water quality, groundwater protection, and protecting public health.
• Other - 10%
  • Perform other duties as needed in order to further the mission and goals of the ISWS, PRI, and the University of Illinois.
  • Keep abreast of developments in this discipline.

Additional Physical Demands

Some of the work of this position takes place in an office setting. The work is sedentary and involves remaining in a stationary position for extended periods of time working at a computer, using a keyboard and mouse, and using repetitive hand motions. Will require working in adverse field conditions (heat, humidity, biting insects, etc.), travel (including driving to and from research and event sites) throughout the state of Illinois working irregular hours and overnights; lift and carry equipment weighing up to 50 pounds. Must be flexible in responding to variable and potentially harsh environmental conditions. Occasional overnight travel may occur.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelors Degree in natural resources, environmental science or related field.
• Experience in preparing summary information on technical topics and explaining the value of outside resources to industry professionals.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelors or advanced Degree in Geology
• Experience with dissemination of water and wastewater operations related information for industry professionals, as well as for onsite wastewater professionals. Experience working with state agencies and industry stakeholders to provide their information to a broader audience in a program similar to WaterOperator.org.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Demonstrated knowledge of groundwater, wells, and water/water treatment and related issues. Effective communication, personal relations, collaboration, organizational, teamwork, and leadership skills. Must possess strong interpersonal skills and ability to work collaboratively with other scientists, researchers, staff, and PRI clients. Demonstrated ability to perform effectively in a diverse and fast-paced work environment consisting of multiple and changing priorities with stringent deadlines, under minimal supervision. Attention to detail, sound judgment, and strong conflict resolution skills. Proficiency in commonly-employed software and databases.

Appointment Information

This is a 100% full-time Academic Professional position, appointed on a 12-month basis. The expected start date is as soon as possible after 3/16/2025. Salary range is $53,000-$58,000 and is commensurate with experience. It is not normal to be offered a salary at the top of the range.

Application Procedures & Deadline Information

Applications must be received by 6:00 pm (Central Time) on November 21st 2025. Apply for this position using the Apply Now button at the top or bottom of this posting. Applications not submitted through https://jobs.illinois.edu will not be considered. For further information about this specific position, please contact Jon Freiman HR Business Partner at jcf@illinois.edu. For questions regarding the application process, please contact 217-333-2137.

This position is intended to be eligible for benefits. This includes Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, a Retirement Plan, Paid time Off, and Tuition waivers for employees and dependents.