Mesonet Technician

Job Summary

The Louisiana State Mesonet, within the School of Sciences at the University of Louisiana Monroe (ULM), is seeking applications for a Mesonet Technician. This position is primarily responsible for ensuring successful operations for the Louisiana Mesonet environmental monitoring sites fielded across the state. The candidate will actively monitor, maintain, and troubleshoot all aspects of Louisiana Mesonet data collection; maintain Mesonet station and sensor documentation; repair and maintain Mesonet technical equipment; install and remove Mesonet infrastructure; and assist with sensor calibration and data quality assurance. This position is supervised by the Mesonet Manager. The position is a full-time, 12-month position currently funded for 1-year with extension beyond the first year based on availability of funding and a favorable evaluation.

Duties and Responsibilities

Responsible for routine and emergency maintenance of Louisiana Mesonet environmental monitoring sites.

• Troubleshooting and repairing/replacing failed sensors and electronic equipment at Mesonet sites on a deadline basis.
• Operating power equipment to maintain site vegetation.
• Performing on-site calibrations of Mesonet sensors and calibrating instruments in Mesonet laboratories.
• Submitting paperwork and digital metadata on a deadline basis to document sensor problems and site conditions/inspections.
• Installing and testing sensors and electronic equipment at new Mesonet sites.
• Serving as a point of contact and interacting with site hosts, local media, partners, and users regarding Mesonet operations, research, and outreach.
• Accessing Mesonet and complementary databases for use in reports in support of research.
• Using statistical and/or geographic information systems software to analyze, display, and/or interpret Louisiana Mesonet data.
• Representing the Louisiana Mesonet at professional meetings or trade shows
• Operating a Mesonet vehicle in a safe and courteous manner.

Minimum Qualifications

• Associate degree or 2 years college study completed in Engineering, Electronics, Meteorology, or a related technical field; or an equivalent combination of education and related experience.
• Valid Class D driver’s license, clean driving record, and ability to drive for long periods of time.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying and extreme weather conditions.
• Ability to lift and carry heavy objects (45 pounds and over).
• Ability to climb including ladders and communication towers (up to 30 feet) where agility or balance is an issue.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule that occasionally includes overnight & weekend travel

Supplemental Information

• Bachelor’s degree in Meteorology or related technical discipline.
• 12 months experience in remote weather station management/maintenance.
• Knowledge of meteorological instrumentation and equipment for environmental monitoring, including testing and calibration procedures.
• Previous datalogger experience (especially Campbell Scientific).
• Experience with analog and digital sensors, DC power systems, basic circuits, etc.
• Experience with wireless communications, RS-485, SDI-12, and other communications.
• Knowledge and skills involving data analysis and visualization using statistical and/or geographic information systems software.
• Scientific and technical writing skills.
• Interpersonal communication and public speaking skills.