Everything we do is designed to improve the quality of life of the people in the state of Illinois, across the nation, and around the world. We discover, develop, translate, and disseminate knowledge to address societal concerns and train the next generation of experts and leaders in a way that empowers them to expand the boundaries and applications of science and education to higher levels of understanding and influence.

Be a part of our story.

The Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences brings biological, physical, and social scientists together to identify, teach, and publicize solutions for the sustainability of urban, managed, and natural ecosystems from the local to global scale.

Primary Position Function/Summary

Supports environmental and agricultural research by facilitating the collection, preparation, and analysis of samples for isotopic study. Plays a critical role in integrating field sampling, laboratory techniques, and data management to advance investigations of water and nutrient dynamics in agricultural landscapes.

Major Duties and Responsibilities

Collect environmental samples from field sites, including tile drainage, stream water, groundwater, and soils, following standardized protocols for isotopic and hydrological analysis.
Prepare collected samples for isotopic analysis, including filtration, chemical treatment, and preparation of bacterial cultures.
Perform laboratory processing of samples, including weighing, drying, and logging of soil and water samples.
Maintain and organize field and laboratory data, ensuring accuracy, consistency, and timely entry into research databases.

Minimum Qualifications

· Bachelor’s degree in environmental science, soil science, geology, hydrology, ecology, or a related field.

· Experience with environmental field sampling methods, including water, soil, or groundwater collection.

· Demonstrated experience following field and laboratory protocols and maintaining detailed records.

· Valid driver’s license and ability to travel to field sites.

Preferred Qualifications

· Experience preparing samples for stable isotope analysis (e.g., nitrate, water isotopes).

· Familiarity with laboratory techniques such as filtration, drying, weighing, and chemical preservation of samples.

· Prior research experience in a lab or field setting, particularly related to hydrology or biogeochemistry.

· Experience managing data in Excel, Google Sheets, or a laboratory information management system (LIMS).

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Knowledge of basic field sampling techniques and laboratory safety procedures.
Strong organizational and record-keeping skills.
Ability to work independently and as part of a research team.
Attention to detail and commitment to data accuracy.
Effective written and verbal communication skills.

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 the posting close date of 6/23/2025. The wage for this position is $41,200.

Application Procedures & Deadline Information

Applications must be received by 6:00 pm (Central Time) on June 23^rd, 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 Corey Mitchell (cmitche@illinois.edu). For questions regarding the application process, please contact 217-333-2137.

The University of Illinois offers a very competitive benefits portfolio, depending on the position. Click for a complete list of Employee Benefits.

The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity employer, including but not limited to disability and/or veteran status, and complies with all applicable state and federal employment mandates. Please visit Required Employment Notices and Posters to view our non-discrimination statement and find additional information about required background checks, sexual harassment/misconduct disclosures, and employment eligibility review through E-Verify.

Applicants with disabilities are encouraged to apply and may request a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (2008) to complete the application and/or interview process. Accommodations may also be requested on the basis of pregnancy, childbirth, and related conditions, or religion. Requests may be submitted through the reasonable accommodations portal, or by contacting the Accessibility & Accommodations Division of the Office for Access and Equity at 217-333-0885, or by emailing accessibility@illinois.edu.

Requisition ID: 1031076
Job Category: Academic Professional
Apply at: https://jobs.illinois.edu

Apply now

See more open positions at University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Privacy policy Cookie policy