Research Specialist I

Job Title
Research Specialist I

Agency
Texas A&M University - Corpus Christi

Department
Harte Research Institute

Proposed Minimum Salary
Commensurate

Job Location
Corpus Christi, Texas

Job Type
Staff

Job Description
TAMU-CC is a dynamic university designated as both a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) and Minority-Serving Institution (MSI) with approximately 11,000 students from 47 states and 54 foreign nations. We employ over 1,400 full-time and 2,000 part-time Islanders (including students/GAs). The University attracts highly talented faculty and staff and offers an array of undergraduate and graduate degrees, including doctoral programs.  As a member of the Texas A&M University System, TAMU-CC benefits from a range of resources, increased visibility and influence, and opportunities to collaborate in mutually beneficial ways with peers across member institutions and associated agencies.

TAMU-CC’s beautiful campus is located on a 240-acre island on Corpus Christi Bay and was ranked #1 College by the Sea by Best College Reviews. Our natural setting is enhanced by its modern, attractive, and state-of-the-art classroom buildings and support facilities.

PURPOSE
The Research Specialist I will support grant-funded laboratory and field data collection efforts in the Coastal Water Health lab.

DESCRIPTION
Functional Area 1: Sample processing and analysis
Percent Effort: 60%

- Preparation of materials necessary for water sample collection and processing

- Water quality sample processing

- Analysis of chlorophyll, suspended solids and other (TBD) water quality samples

- Assist with other laboratory duties as necessary

Functional Area 2: Field sampling
Percent Effort: 30%

- Conduct field sampling/research via boats and kayaks, which will require operation of university vehicles.

- Collection of water samples

- Operation of water quality sondes

Functional Area 3: Data analysis and curation
Percent Effort: 10%

- Curation of water quality data

- QA/QC of water quality data

- Analysis of water quality data

QUALIFICATIONS

- Bachelor's of Science in Marine Science, Environmental Science or related field.

- Four (4) years of related work experience to include one (1) year of professional experience with water quality sample collection, processing, and data analysis.

- Additional education may be used as a substitute for the minimum experience requirement:
- Masters degree in Marine Science, Environmental Science or related field, and two (2) years of related work experience to include one (1) year of professional experience with water quality sample collection, processing, and data analysis.

- Demonstrated ability to calibrate and operate water quality sondes

- Demonstrated ability to conduct chlorophyll analysis

- Excellent laboratory hygiene skills

- Strong attention to detail

- Ability to work on interdisciplinary research team

- Strong written and spoken communication skills

- Ability to conduct research tasks in a variety of weather conditions

- Ability to multitask and work cooperatively with others

- Ability to lift moderately heavy objects

- Work beyond normal business hours and/or work on weekends as required by research projects

- Valid driver’s license

- Experience with software such as Microsoft Excel, Word, Access, and R

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

- Formal coursework or training in either: 1) analytical chemistry, or 2) marine phytoplankton taxonomy.

SALARY: Up to $4,166.67 Monthly (Up to $50,000 Annually, Approximately )

This a grant-funded position. Continued employment contingent upon available funding .

NOTE: Employment may be impacted by the Presidential proclamation issued on September 19, 2025 and the moratorium issued by Texas Governor Abbott on January 27, 2026.

BENEFITS (rules, policies, eligibility apply)
From our generous benefits package and professional development opportunities, to our retirement programs and our commitment to service excellence, the Island University is an engaging and rewarding place to work.

INSURANCE:

- Medical
- $0 - $30 per month for Employee Only coverage after university contribution ($920 value).

- Up to 83% of premium covered by the university:
- Employee and Spouse

- Employee and Children

- Employee and Family coverage

- Dental & Vision

- Life Insurance, Accidental D&D, Long Term Disability, Flexible Spending Account and Day Care Spending Account

DUAL CAREER PARTNER PROGRAM

ON-CAMPUS WELLNESS OPPORTUNITIES

Work Life Solutions:

- Counseling, Work Life Assistance, Financial Resources, and Legal Resources

Tuition Benefits:

- Public Loan Forgiveness

- Book scholarships

- 100% tuition coverage for up to 18 credit hours per fiscal year (other rules may apply).

Retirement :

- Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS) or Optional Retirement Plan (ORP)

- Voluntary Tax Deferred Account/Deferred Compensation Plan

Time Off :

- 8+ hours of vacation paid time off every month.

- 8 hours of sick leave time off every month.

- 8 hours of paid time off for Birthday leave.

- 12-15 paid holidays each year.

All positions are security-sensitive. Applicants are subject to a criminal history investigation, and employment is contingent upon the institution’s verification of credentials and/or other information required by the institution’s procedures, including the completion of the criminal history check.

Equal Opportunity/Veterans/Disability Employer.