Thank you for your interest in employment with the Desert Research Institute. We want your application process to go smoothly and quickly. We ask that you keep in mind the following when completing your application:
- Once you start the application process you cannot save your work. Please ensure you have all required attachment(s) available to complete your application before you begin the process.
- Required attachments are listed below on the posting. Your application will not be considered without the required attachments.
- Please see the application instructions under each posting for information on submittal deadlines.
If you need assistance or have questions regarding the application process, contact Human Resources Hotline at (775) 673-7431 or recruit@dri.edu.
Job Description
DRI seeks a Data Acquisition/Data Scientist at the Staff Research Scientist (Rank 1) level. The candidate will assist with ongoing environmental and geoscience research and data collection, as well as data processing and reporting activities under current Department of Defense (DOD) funded projects. The successful applicant will perform primary job functions and be part of a large, interdisciplinary team in the Integrated Terrain Analysis Program (ITAP) which provides important soil, geomorphic, and terrain analysis capabilities within the Division of Earth and Ecosystem Sciences (DEES).
This position involves the following research support activities:
- Assist in field campaign design, equipment setup, testing and maintenance, and data collection.
- Assist with geological and environmental data processing and analysis.
- Provide support to field-oriented studies that require collection of soil and geomorphic data, often in extreme environments.
- Assist with and contribute to basic report writing and technical editing of project deliverables.
Other responsibilities may include assistance in a wide variety of Quaternary geologic and geomorphic projects as opportunities and needs arise. This position is based in Reno, NV.
Required Qualifications
- U.S. Citizenship (Must have the ability to work on DoD instillations)
- B.S. degree from an accredited institution in geology, hydrology, atmospheric science, or related environmental science/engineering field
- Expertise and strong evidence of data science, analysis, and management of large spatiotemporal datasets
- Demonstrated field experience including working in remote locations
- Previous experience working with environmental sensors and dataloggers (e.g., Campbell Scientific)
- Demonstrated mechanical aptitude
- Valid Nevada driver’s license required (or ability to obtain one by date of hire)
- Ability to maintain quality, safety, and control standards
- Strong oral and written communication skills; experience writing and/or contributing to reports
- Team player with diverse interests and abilities to adapt and learn new skills
Preferred Qualifications
- MS degree in geology, hydrology, atmospheric science, or related environmental science/engineering field from an accredited institution
- Demonstrated skills in the design and implementation of experiments and data collection
- Demonstrated skills using GIS software (e.g., ArcGIS, ArcGIS PRO)
- Familiarity with research grade environmental sensors and installations (e.g., weather stations, eddy covariance, well logging, water quality monitoring)
- Familiarity with remote data acquisition and telemetry (e.g., cellular modems, radios)
- Experience with remote electronics set-up and upkeep (e.g., power budgets, solar installations)
- Familiarity with network configuration and IP management
- Programming experience for data management and analysis (e.g., Python, MATLAB, CRBasic, SQL)
Conditions of Employment
- Due to security requirements associated with accessing essential project sites and information, ALL applicants MUST be citizens of the United States.
- Must have the ability to work on DOD instillations.
- Must be able to travel and to work in harsh field conditions for extended periods of time (i.e., southwest deserts in the summer, cold regions, tropical regions), walk/hike across uneven terrain, and ability to lift heavy equipment (40+ lbs.)
Salary/Benefits
Minimum annual starting salary is $56,267 and is commensurate with experience and education. DRI offers a benefits package that includes health, dental, vision, and life insurance; including 17.50% retirement contribution with match, 24 annual leave days, beginning balance of 30 sick leave days, 12 paid holidays, educational benefits, and the choice of three health insurance plans that can be supplemented with flexible spending accounts or health savings accounts. Additionally, there is no state income tax and no social security deduction. This position is eligible for relocation assistance.
Organizational Summary
DRI is a recognized world leader in basic and applied environmental research. Committed to scientific excellence and integrity, DRI faculty, students who work alongside them, and staff have developed scientific knowledge and innovative technologies in research projects around the globe.
Since 1959, DRI’s research has advanced scientific knowledge on topics ranging from humans’ impact on the environment to the environment’s impact on humans. DRI’s impactful science and inspiring solutions support Nevada’s diverse economy, provide science-based educational opportunities, and inform policymakers, business leaders, and community members.
With campuses in Las Vegas and Reno, DRI serves as the non-profit research arm of the Nevada System of Higher Education.
Exempt
Yes
Full-Time Equivalent
100.0%
Required Attachment(s)
Please upload the following documents in the specified section of your application in Workday:
- A cover letter detailing your research experience, career goals, and project interests;
- A current curriculum vitae or resume;
- Contact information for three professional/work-related references, to be contacted at the appropriate phase of the recruitment process based on applicant permission.
Qualified individuals who meet all qualifications and requirements are encouraged to apply immediately and provide all required attachments to receive full consideration. Recruitment will close without notice when a sufficient number of applications are received, or a hiring decision has been made.
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR INTERNAL NSHE CANDIDATES
DRI employees or employees within the Nevada System of Higher Education (NSHE) MUST use the “Browse Jobs” report within Workday to find and apply for jobs at DRI and other NSHE Institutions. Once you log into Workday, type “Browse Jobs” in the search box which will navigate to the internal job posting site. Locate this specific job posting by typing the job requisition number, “R0138672” in the search box.
For more detailed information about DRI, please visit us at www.dri.edu. For questions regarding this position or assistance with your application, please email jobs@dri.edu or call the recruiting office at 775-674-7114.
Posting Close Date
Note to Applicant
Applicants should fully describe their qualifications and experience with specific reference to each of the minimum and preferred qualifications. The search committee will use this information during the initial review of application materials.
References will be contacted at the appropriate phase of the recruitment process based on applicant notification and permission.
Newly hired faculty and postdoctoral fellows must assure that their official transcript is submitted to the Human Resources Office within 30 calendar days from the effective date of employment. Academic degrees must have been awarded by regionally accredited institutions.
This position may require a criminal background check to be conducted on the candidate(s) selected for hire.
As part of the hiring process, applicants for positions in the Nevada System of Higher Education may be required to demonstrate the ability to perform job-related tasks.
DRI employs only U.S. citizens and aliens authorized to work in the U.S. DRI only sponsors aliens applying for research faculty or postdoctoral fellow positions (J-1 or H-1B Visas).
All applicants hired by the Desert Research Institute are subject to E-Verify.