Job Summary/Basic Function:

Boise State University seeks to hire a Research Associate to work at the Idaho Department of Water Resources (IDWR) in Boise, Idaho to provide long-term support related to a variety of water projects, programs, and initiatives including the Statewide Water Level Monitoring Program and Eastern Snake Plain Aquifer (ESPA) monitoring efforts. This position requires a combination of office and field time.

This position will be working at the Idaho Department of Water Resources State office located in Boise, Idaho.

Level Scope:

Fully competent and productive professional contributor who applies acquired job skills, policies, and procedures to complete substantive assignments/projects/tasks of moderate scope and complexity. Works independently with general supervision. Exercises judgment within defined guidelines and practices to determine appropriate action. May provide guidance, assistance, and training to entry-level professionals, support employees, and students

Essential Functions:

The Research Associate will assist with various tasks related to the operations and analysis of the IDWR Statewide Water Level Monitoring Program including, but not limited to:

• Field work may involve multiple days at a time away from Boise and the ability to lift and/or otherwise carry 40 pounds of equipment.
• Conducting groundwater level and stream flow measurements in IDWR networks;
• Installing data loggers to record continuous groundwater levels in selected wells, and downloading electronic data from data loggers as necessary;
• Collecting water quality samples from wells;
• Processing, entering, and analyzing monitoring data utilizing IDWR applications and databases;
• Performing data QA/QC checks, and helping to maintain data standards and database design;
• Coordinating with local water users to access sites and to understand regional water issues;
• Drilling oversight for the construction of new monitoring wells;
• Collect geological samples, and GPS coordinates of sampling and measuring locations;
• Analyzing data sets to determine various metrics and trends, and to address questions and concerns regarding local and regional water resources;
• Responding to inquiries for data and information from a broad spectrum of individuals and entities; and,
• Developing hydrologic reports and presenting findings to local stakeholder groups.
• Other duties as assigned

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:

• Working knowledge of scientific principles, research design, and research protocols, including analysis and collection of data.
• Ability to work as part of a team or independently, both in the field and in the office, as applicable to the position.
• Ability to develop working relationships with partners and  vendors.
• Experience conducting outreach.
• Education or demonstrated experience in collection of  hydrogeologic data.
• Education or experience with computerized data management and analysis systems, such as GIS software (ArcPro), spreadsheet software (Excel), and database software.
• Demonstrated oral and written communication skills.
• Demonstrated time management and organizational skills.

Minimum Qualifications:

B.S degree in hydrology, geology, water resources or related field of study, plus at least 2 years of post-Bachelor's work experience in a role that is similar to that of a Research Assistant.

A valid, current Drivers License is required.

Preferred Qualifications:

• M.S. in hydrology, geology, water resources or related field of study.
• Experience with water level monitoring, water quality sampling, and data analysis.
• Experience with installation of dataloggers and use of high accuracy GPS.
• Knowledge of database design and maintenance best practices.
• Experience with GIS applications (ESRI ArcGIS Online, ArcPro, etc.).
• Proficient with programming languages to assist with analyses (Python, R, Matlab, etc.).

Salary and Benefits:

Salary range is $57,000 to $60,000 annually and is commensurate with experience. Boise State University provides a best-in-class benefits package, including (but not limited to):

• 12 paid holidays AND the University is closed between Christmas and New Year's (requires use of 3 vacation days)
• Between 12-24 annual paid vacation days for full-time Professional and Classified staff depending on position type and years of service
• 10.76% University contribution to your ORP retirement fund (Professional and Faculty employees)
• 11.96% University contribution to your PERSI retirement fund (Classified employees)
• Excellent medical, dental and other health-related insurance coverages
• Tuition fee waiver benefits for employees, spouses and their dependents
• See our full benefits page for more information!

Required Application Materials:

Resume and Cover Letter.

About Us:

Nestled along the Boise River and steps from the state capitol, Boise State University fosters a vibrant and welcoming academic environment that fuels student and employee success. We’re a trailblazing institution, nationally recognized for our innovative spirit and commitment to positive impact on Idaho and beyond.

Boise State is proud to be recognized by Forbes as the only Idaho employer listed in the top 100 of all national midsize and large employers. We’re building a thriving community of faculty and staff whose unique skills, experiences, and perspectives come together to create a rich and rewarding academic experience. Applications from all backgrounds are welcomed.

Learn more about Boise State and living in Idaho’s Treasure Valley at https://www.boisestate.edu/about/