Research Assistant

TITLE:  Research Assistant (Part-time)    

POSITION CLASSIFICAITON:  Non-exempt hourly

HOURS: Part-time as needed (Less than 24 hrs/wk)

REPORTS TO:  Research Manager

COMPENSATION: $12-$15/hour, based on experience

 Phinizy Center for Water Sciences located in Augusta Georgia is a private non-profit 501(c)(3) organization founded in 1996 to promote environmental stewardship through education, research, and public outreach.

POSITION DESCRIPTION: The Research Assistant position will provide help to the research department staff in both field and lab work relating to water quality monitoring, analysis, and data management. This position will assist in achieving Phinizy Center’s research mission to study freshwater ecosystems in the southeast and through our research find the necessary balance between a healthy river ecology and the needs of the communities.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Assists with field-based research following standardized procedures
• Capable of working independently and without direction on assigned tasks/projects
• Safely operates vehicles including a truck, truck with trailer, kayak and boat when needed
• Assists with laboratory analyses and general lab duties; adheres to best laboratory management practices and compliance
• Assists in completion of project deliverables, including data entry, QA/QC checks, report writing, and analysis with limited supervision
• Ability to work with volunteers and communicate research with the community through informal and formal presentations
• Assist as needed in fulfilling the Phinizy Center mission, which includes representation at events and working agreeably within the organization, which includes K-12 and adult environmental education programs and nature park activities.
• Performs other duties as instructed

DESIRABLE JOB PREREQUISITES

Education and Experience:

• Pursuing or obtained an Associate or Bachelor’s degree in biology, ecology, or related field

Working Conditions and Physical Demands:  

The employee must meet these requirements, with or without reasonable accommodation, to succeed in this position. 

• Work under physically demanding conditions in inclement weather and difficult terrain
• Ability to perform manual labor including, lifting supplies and materials up to 50 lbs, and climbing ladders
• An appreciation for and understanding of natural habitats and systems and comfortable working outdoors in all weather conditions

Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities:

• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple projects in a fast paced, deadline-driven environment
• Experience in chemistry lab/familiarity with general lab practices and safety procedures
• Positive, flexible, team-oriented attitude, with the willingness and desire to work as a part of a multi-disciplinary team
• Strong work ethic, professionalism, and integrity
• Proficiency in OneDrive and MS Office Suite, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook; familiar with R studio
• Proficiency swimming, wading, and operating a kayak through shoals and rapids is preferred

License(s) or Special Requirements:

• Possess a valid state driver’s license
• Ability to pass a background check
• Possess, or will attain Georgia Boater Education Certification, within 6 months of employment