Research Specialist I-II

Agency

Department

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.

Learn more information here!

PURPOSE

The Research Specialist supports applied ecological research within the Coastal Conservation and Restoration Ecology Lab, with a strong focus on fieldwork and laboratory support for habitat restoration and monitoring projects. This position is well suited for someone who enjoys hands-on, outdoor, and laboratory-based work and is prepared to take an active role in leading field efforts, including coordinating sampling logistics, supporting crew safety, and managing sample collection. Research Specialists contribute to a range of ecological projects and are expected to work both independently and collaboratively with the lab’s leadership team to carry out established protocols. The position offers opportunities for continued professional growth, skill development, and increased leadership within an active, team-oriented research environment.

DESCRIPTION

Functional Area 1: Field and Laboratory Research

Percent Effort: I – 80% | II – 60%

Research Specialist I

• Conducts field sampling using established protocols provided by the research team.

• Processes and organizes biological and environmental samples in the lab, including benthic invertebrates from sediment cores and oyster reefs, sediment for grain size and isotopic analysis, and water samples.

• Records and enters data accurately using digital or paper-based systems.

• Prepares and maintains field and laboratory gear.

• Follows research and safety protocols consistently in field and laboratory environments.

Research Specialist II

• Plans and executes field sampling while following established methods and goals set by project leads.

• Manages laboratory processing of biological and environmental samples, including benthic invertebrates, sediments (e.g., for grain size and isotopic composition), and water samples; ensures consistency and adherence to protocols.

• Performs QA/QC of data and supports structured data organization and storage.

• Maintains, calibrates, and troubleshoots field and lab equipment.

• Provides input to refine and adapt protocols based on field conditions, with oversight from the leadership team.

Functional Area 2: Technical and Programmatic Support

Percent Effort: I – 15% | II – 30%

Research Specialist I

• Supports onboarding and basic training of staff and students in field and lab techniques.

• Assists with coordinating logistics and preparation for field and lab activities.

• Helps organize supplies and maintain shared field and lab spaces.

• Leads or co-leads educational outreach events and prepares supporting materials.

Research Specialist II

• Provides training and guidance to junior staff, including technicians and, as appropriate, graduate students. Assists with recruiting, onboarding, and training undergraduate assistants and interns.

• Coordinates logistics and planning for field and lab activities across assigned projects.

• Organizes equipment, supplies, and data systems to support project needs.

• Leads or co-leads educational outreach events and prepares supporting materials.

Functional Area 3: Administration and Operations

Percent Effort: I – 5% | II – 10%

Research Specialist I

• Tracks and restocks field and lab supplies.

• Maintains documentation of sampling activities, lab procedures, and gear use.

• Follows lab safety protocols and helps maintain a clean and organized workspace.

Research Specialist II

• Manages supply ordering and inventory tracking for field and lab operations.

• Documents procedures, field schedules, and project-related activities for reporting.

• Implements lab safety protocols and ensures compliance among team members.

QUALIFICATIONS

Research Specialist I

• Bachelor’s Degree in Marine Biology or related field

• Four (4) years of related experience, including ecological fieldwork

• Additional education may be used as a substitute for the minimum experience requirement: 

  • Masters degree in Marine Biology or related field and two (2) years of related experience, including ecological fieldwork

• Ability to work outdoors and in laboratory settings for extended periods

• Ability to lift and carry objects weighing up to 50 pounds.

• Capability to work in various environmental conditions, including heat, cold, rain, or uneven terrain.

Research Specialist II

• Bachelor’s Degree in Marine Biology or related field

• Six (6) years of related experience, including demonstrated ability to lead field sampling Experience with training, field coordination, or logistical planning

• Additional education may be used as a substitute for the minimum experience requirement: 

  • Masters degree in Marine Biology or related field and four (4) years of related experience, including demonstrated ability to lead field sampling Experience with training, field coordination, or logistical planning

• Ability to work outdoors and in laboratory settings for extended periods

• Ability to lift and carry objects weighing up to 50 pounds.

• Capability to work in various environmental conditions, including heat, cold, rain, or uneven terrain.

Preferred Qualifications (All Levels)

• Master’s degree in Marine Biology or related field

• Extensive experience with ecological field methods in marine or estuarine environments

• Demonstrated experience leading field teams including coordinating multi-day sampling efforts

• Familiarity with identification of coastal and marine species (especially invertebrates)

• Ability to conduct fieldwork in challenging conditions (e.g., heat, rain, shallow water)

• Experience operating and trailering small boats

• Strong organizational and problem solving skills in dynamic field settings

• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and other data organization tools

• Experience maintaining and repairing scientific field or lab equipment

• Valid U.S. driver’s license

• SCUBA certification (scientific diving experience preferred)

SALARY: $46,139.70 - $58,000/annually, approximately

• $3,844.98 - $4,833.33/monthly

NOTE: Compensation is commensurate with education and experience.

• This position is grant-funded. Continued employment is contingent upon funding.

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.