Field Research Technician

Position Title:

Field Research Technician

Job Group:

Professional & Scientific

Required Minimum Qualifications:

High school diploma or equivalent and 3 years of related experience

Special Required Qualifications

Drivers License

Preferred Qualifications:

Associate’s degree in environmental science or a closely related natural science field

Experience installing and maintaining automated water quality samplers and flow/stage monitoring equipment in aquatic systems

Experience collecting water quality samples and recording field measurements from aquatic systems

Experience collecting dissolved gas samples and measuring greenhouse gas emissions from aquatic systems

Job Description:

The Department of Ecology, Evolution, and Organismal Biology at Iowa State University seeks applicants for a Research Technician II position to assist with ongoing water quality research projects across Iowa. Primary responsibilities include collecting water-quality samples and field data from wetland, riverine, and lake research sites across the state; installing, calibrating, and maintaining field equipment; preparing and analyzing water samples; and reporting field and laboratory results. This is an entry-level position that requires foundational professional and technical skills and is performed under general supervision.

Key Responsibilities include:

• Assist with the installation and maintenance of automated water quality sampling and monitoring equipment at wetland and riverine research sites

• Assist with the installation and maintenance of flow monitoring equipment at wetland and riverine research sites

• Assist with the collection of water quality samples and field data at wetland, riverine, and lake research sites

• Document and maintain records on equipment installation, maintenance, and field sampling activities

• Maintain timely communications with supervisor and colleagues regarding all aspects of ongoing projects

The successful applicant will be able to work independently with minimal supervision in both laboratory and field settings. Strong written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills are essential. The selected candidate will receive on-the-job training specific to the position's duties and to broaden their understanding of the research projects supported by the laboratory.

Please submit a cover letter describing your experience related to the responsibilities and preferred qualifications for the position.

This is a term position with opportunity for renewal.

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship. Immigration sponsorship is not available for this position

Level Guidelines
• Career-level position demonstrating proficiency and knowledge of related competencies
• Works under direct to general supervision and may receive guidance on more complex assignments
• Follows established procedures for work assignments, and completes assignments which are semi-routine and may be atypical in nature
• Applies thorough knowledge to respond to inquiries and requests
• Able to resolve most problems and issues and respond to requests without escalation
• Provides guidance to students
• May provide supervision to one to two other staff or lead a small work team

Appointment Type:

Regular with Term Appointment (Fixed Term)

Proposed End Date or Length of Term:

June 30, 2027

Number of Months Employed Per Year:

12 Month Work Period

Time Type:

Full time

Pay Grade:

PS805

Application Instructions:

To apply for this position, please click on “Apply” and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:

1) Resume/Curriculum Vitae
2) Letter of Application/Cover Letter

Please submit a cover letter describing your experience related to the responsibilities and preferred qualifications for the position.

If you have questions regarding this application process, please email [email protected] or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.

Why Choose ISU?

Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental; as well as:
• Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
• Generous vacation, holiday and sick time and leave plans
• Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)
• Life insurance and long-term disability
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Various voluntary benefits and discounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Wellbeing program

Original Posting Date:

February 4, 2026

Posting Close Date:

February 15, 2026

Job Requisition Number:

R18546