Research Specialist I-II

Job Title

Research Specialist I-II

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

This position is responsible for field sampling, sample analysis and data management related to coastal water quality studies.

Description

Functional Area 1: Research

Percent Effort: 75%

• Works collaboratively with the P.I. to develop student work schedules
• Manages all field sampling activities to ensure project success and personal safety
• Operates university vehicles and boats to support field logistics, including transportation of personnel and equipment to research sites.
• Performs sample processing upon return of samples to the laboratory
• Perform other duties as assigned
  
  

Functional Area 2: Data Management

Percent Effort: 20%

• Collects all lab data and enters it into master databases
• Performs quality control checks on all data and metadata
• Uploads data to appropriate data repositories
  
  

Functional Area 3: Training of team personnel

Percent Effort: 5%

• Trains team personnel on field sampling safety and boat usage
• Documents trainings
  
  

Qualifications

Research Specialist I

• Bachelor’s degree in related field of study.
• Four (4) years of related experience.
• Additional education may be used as a substitute for the minimum experience requirement.
• Master’s degree in related field of study and two (2) years of related experience
  

Research Specialist II

• Bachelor’s degree in related field of study.
• Six (6) years of related experience.
• Additional education may be used as a substitute for the minimum experience requirement.
• Master’s degree in related field of study and four (4) years of related experience
  

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities For Both Levels

• Valid Driver's License
• Experience operating small boats in estuarine waters
• Ability to conduct field work under a variety of weather conditions
• Experience operating water quality sondes
• Experience with data management software
• Strong attention to detail
• Ability to multitask and work cooperatively with others
• Ability to lift moderately heavy objects
• Ability to exert heavy force
• Work beyond normal business hours and/or work on weekends
  
  

SALARY: Commensurate with experience and qualifications.

• $46,036.00-$59,576.00 Annual, Approximately
• $3,836.34- $4,964.67 Monthly, Approximately
  
  

Note: This position is grant-funded. Continued employment is contingent upon continued funding.

• 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.