Upstate New York HERC

Great Lakes Water Resources Technician

The Opportunity

This position is a collaboration between the New York State Water Resources Institute and the Department of Environmental Conservation's Great Lakes Program. Its main role is to support both fieldwork and laboratory operations. The work contributes to water resource research and management efforts in New York's Great Lakes region.

The Department of Biological and Environmental Engineering (BEE) is one of the largest programs of its kind, with a diverse community of faculty, staff, and students. It focuses on three core areas: education at undergraduate and graduate levels, research in biology and environmental challenges, and public outreach. Through these efforts, the department aims to advance knowledge and help society apply scientific solutions.

This is a full-time, in-person position based in Syracuse, New York. This is a one-year term position, with additional one-year terms pending performance and funding. Core hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, with flexibility as needed.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct environmental field sampling of streams and lakes following established protocols and QA requirements
• Calibrate, maintain, and operate field sampling equipment (e.g., multiparameter sondes)
• Collect, document, compile, and archive water quality, biological, and geospatial data
• Maintain metadata and ensure proper data organization for reporting and analysis
• Prepare GIS maps and data visualizations
• Support data analysis related to environmental programs, including the Great Lakes Action Agenda
• Assist with maintenance and organization of sampling equipment and storage areas
• Support operation and upkeep of field vehicles, trailers, and boats
• Assist in preparing written standard operating procedures
• Provide logistical and operational support for field and laboratory activities
• Collaborate with and support other Water Resource Management programs as needed

What We Need

A resume and cover letter are required for further consideration.

• High school diploma with up to 2 years of relevant experience, or an equivalent combination
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and Microsoft Teams
• Experience with ArcGIS, R (or similar programming tools), and GPS technology
• Must have or be willing to obtain a valid boater's certificate
• Willingness and ability to travel throughout New York's Great Lakes Basin, including occasional after-hours work
• Knowledge of freshwater and shoreline ecosystem functions
• Familiarity with New York's Great Lakes watersheds and restoration strategies
• Effective oral and written communication skills
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team
• Must possess and maintain a valid, unrestricted New York State driver's license and be approved to drive for university business
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow prescribed procedures
• Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions and navigate uneven terrain
• Ability to operate or learn to operate boats, trailers, and environmental sampling equipment
• Ability to lift up to 10 lbs
• Ability to foster inclusive and collaborative relationships with diverse groups of people

If you have all those things, great! We have a few more things that we would prefer you to have, but it's ok if you don't.

• Bachelor's degree in ecology, environmental science, natural resources management, or a related field
• Experience using environmental monitoring instruments (e.g., multiparameter sondes, sensors)
• Experience working with state or federal water quality programs
• Experience with data visualization and/or geospatial analysis

Rewards and Benefits

Cornell receives national recognition as an award-winning workplace for our health, wellbeing, and sustainability.

Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

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Non-Union Positions

Noted pay ranges reflect the potential pay opportunity for each job profile. The hiring rate of pay for the successful candidate will be determined considering the following criteria:

• Prior relevant work or industry experience

• Education level to the extent education is relevant to the position

• Unique applicable skills

• Academic Discipline

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Cornell welcomes students, faculty, and staff with diverse backgrounds from across the globe to pursue world-class education and career opportunities, to further the founding principle of "... any person ... any study." No person shall be denied employment on the basis of any legally protected status or subjected to prohibited discrimination involving, but not limited to, such factors as race, ethnic or national origin, citizenship and immigration status, color, sex, pregnancy or pregnancy-related conditions, age, creed, religion, actual or perceived disability (including persons associated with such a person), arrest and/or conviction record, military or veteran status, sexual orientation, gender expression and/or identity, an individual's genetic information, domestic violence victim status, familial status, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

Cornell University embraces diversity in its workforce and seeks job candidates who will contribute to a climate that supports students, faculty, and staff of all identities and backgrounds. We hire based on merit, and encourage people from historically underrepresented and/or marginalized identities to apply. Consistent with federal law, Cornell engages in affirmative action in employment for qualified protected veterans as defined in the Vietnam Era Veterans' Readjustment Assistance Act (VEVRAA) and qualified individuals with disabilities under Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act. We also recognize a lawful preference in employment practices for Native Americans living on or near Indian reservations in accordance with applicable law.