Full job description
Job Description
The University of Wyoming is seeking a motivated Seasonal Hydrology Field Technician to support hydrologic and irrigation monitoring projects across southern Wyoming.
This position involves extensive fieldwork in remote environments collecting data on streamflow, irrigation systems, and agricultural water balances. The technician will work closely with research staff and students to collect, manage, and maintain high-quality environmental and hydrologic datasets.
This role provides hands-on experience with hydrologic instrumentation, streamflow measurement, and irrigation systems, making it ideal for students or early-career professionals interested in hydrology, water resources, environmental science, or agricultural water management.
Position Dates & Schedule
- Flexible start/end dates
Start date: March 23 – May 15
End Date: August 15 – November 9
- Hours: 30–50 hours per week
- Minimum guarantee: 30 hours/week
- Summer-only applicants welcome
Weekly hours may increase during peak field periods and intensive monitoring campaigns.
Duties and Responsibilities
- Install, operate, maintain, and troubleshoot hydrologic monitoring equipment including pressure transducers, data loggers, telemetry systems, and solar power supplies
- Conduct streamflow measurements using:
- Tethered Acoustic Doppler Current Profilers (ADCPs)
- MFPro and wading-based discharge measurements
- Inspect and maintain gauging stations in irrigation canals and natural streams
- Collect soil, vegetation, and field condition data for water balance studies
- Perform routine data downloads and QA/QC of monitoring datasets
- Assist with development and updating of rating curves and flow relationships
- Maintain field notes, equipment logs, and site documentation
- Assist with calibration, repair, and seasonal deployment of monitoring systems
- Support data processing and preparation of datasets for analysis and reporting
- Assist with preparation of figures and materials for technical reports
- Operate university vehicles to access remote field sites
- Follow safety protocols for fieldwork in aquatic and agricultural environments
- Perform other duties supporting hydrology and irrigation research projects
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree completed or in progress (freshmen accepted) in: Hydrology, Environmental Science, Engineering, Natural Resources, Geology, or a related field (Equivalent field experience may substitute)
- Ability to work independently in remote outdoor environments
- Willingness to work long days in variable weather conditions
- Strong organizational and documentation skills
- Valid driver’s license (minimum 1 year driving experience) with clean record
- Ability to lift and carry equipment (approximately 50 lbs)
- Ability to safely work in and around moving water (swimming ability preferred
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with streamflow measurement or hydrologic instrumentation
- Familiarity with ADCPs, MFPro, pressure transducers, or data loggers
- Experience operating ATVs or trailers
- Experience working in agricultural or irrigation systems
- Basic data analysis skills (Excel, R, Python, or similar)
- Prior field research or technician experience
Work Environment
- Extensive outdoor work in rivers, streams, and irrigated landscapes
- Travel throughout southern Wyoming
- Exposure to hot, cold, wet, and windy conditions
- Overnight field trips most weeks
Benefits
- Lodging provided during field travel
- Per diem provided during overnight travel (federal rate $68/day; 75% first and last travel day)
- Travel reimbursement according to University of Wyoming policies
- Hands-on training in applied hydrology and water management
How to Apply
To apply, please submit:
- Brief cover letter describing your interest and relevant experience
- Resume or CV
- Contact information for two references
Send applications and questions to:
Joseph Cook
Assistant Research Scientist
University of Wyoming – Ecosystem Science & Management
jcook34@uwyo.edu
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Early applications are encouraged.
Pay: $20.00 – $30.00 per hour
Work Location: In person
