Job Title:
Applied Research Engineer 1 Hydrology & Water Quality
Department:
FAES | Food, Agricultural and Biological Engineering
The Department of Food, Agricultural and Biological Engineering (FABE) at The Ohio State University (OSU) is seeking an Applied Research Engineer. This role is crucial to the research and Extension mission of the College of Food, Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CFAES). The Engineer will support research and education for funded projects, the Overholt Drainage Education and Research Program, the International Drainage Hall of Fame, and the International Program on Water Management in Agriculture.
Responsibilities:
- Conduct research in engineering to develop designs, models, and prototypes for industry-led projects using computer-aided design, documentation, databases, and manufacturing/inspection software tools.
- Manage long-term field research sites, including installing and maintaining hydrology/water quality monitoring equipment.
- Collaborate with faculty, scientists, and students; train and coordinate with team members.
- Build and maintain relationships with farmers, landowners, and other collaborators.
- Design and install hydrology and water quality monitoring solutions for specific field sites and project goals.
- Coordinate and lead field trips to collect water samples and maintain monitoring equipment.
- Ensure quality assurance/quality control of water quality data.
- Present research results at professional and outreach meetings.
- Handle purchasing and procurement for necessary supplies and equipment.
- Develop and follow health and safety protocols.
Specific Activities:
- Lead soil and water sample collection and equipment maintenance at research locations in Ohio.
- Design and implement water management devices and monitoring equipment at new research sites.
- Manage multiple water quality improvement projects.
- Assist in research-related tasks such as data collection, analysis, and report writing.
- Contribute to funded projects through USDA-NRCS, NCR-SARE, and NIFA-AFRI.
- Develop teaching materials and curricula for training programs focused on agricultural drainage, water management, and conservation practices.
- Attend and present at professional and outreach meetings.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering and 0 years experience.
- Preferred: Master’s degree in Engineering or related field, FE and/or PE licensure track.
- Technical experience with hydrology/water quality field research and related equipment.
- Experience with CAD software, GIS, hydrologic and hydraulic modeling.
- Practical knowledge of Ohio agriculture and agricultural practices.
- Strong motivation, independence, and excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
Required Skills:
- Experience operating power tools and construction equipment.
- Basic knowledge of electrical systems and use of a multi-meter.
- Ability to lift 50 lbs. and work in inclement weather.
Preferred Skills:
- Proficiency with ArcGIS, AutoCAD, Civil-3D, MATLAB, Python, R, MS Excel.
- Ability to create and analyze maps using GIS software.
- Experience operating agricultural and construction equipment.
- Knowledge of load securement and driving large trucks and trailers.
- Prior experience with health and safety training.
Additional Information:
This job profile is a Applied Research Engineer 1 (S1 level) position on the career roadmap.
The salary range for this position is $26.49-$34.81/hr. with fulltime staff benefits.
The salary paid to an individual will vary based on multiple factors, including but not limit to, education, years of experience, internal equity, etc.
Location:
Agricultural Engineering Building (0298)
Position Type:
Regular
Scheduled Hours:
40
Shift:
First Shift
Final candidates are subject to successful completion of a background check. A drug screen or physical may be required during the post offer process.
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The university is an equal opportunity employer, including veterans and disability.
