Field Technician II

Thank you for your interest in employment with the Desert Research Institute. We want your application process to go smoothly and quickly. We ask that you keep in mind the following when completing your application:

• Once you start the application process you cannot save your work. Please ensure you have all required attachment(s) available to complete your application before you begin the process.

• Required attachments are listed below on the posting. Your application will not be considered without the required attachments.

• Please see the application instructions under each posting for information on submittal deadlines.

If you need assistance or have questions regarding the application process, contact Human Resources Hotline at (775) 673-7431 or recruit@dri.edu.

Job Description

DRI seeks a Field Technician II for the daily operations of the Weather Modification (WxMod) Program. The WxMod Field Technician will be responsible for assisting in the fabrication, installation, maintenance, and repair of cloud seeding and weather station equipment, along with coordinating the maintenance and repairs of the WxMod vehicles. The WxMod Field Technician will receive on-the-job training, learning how to fabricate equipment and components using a variety of shop tools. This full-time position is located at DRI's campus in Stead, NV, however, multi-day (1-7) field trips to remote locations throughout the western United States will regularly be required.

Other responsibilities include:

• Test, troubleshoot, fabricate and repair equipment and components using shop/field tools and test new equipment designs, operating programs, and communication systems;

• Ensure maintenance of work trucks for safe and reliable field operation and arrange for vehicle service to minimize any field equipment downtime;

• Assist with the acquisition, preparation, distribution, and storage of hazardous equipment/materials;

• Keep accurate records of inventory, field logs, purchases, travel, and labor performed;

• Participate in a variety of sponsor and public outreach projects.

Required Qualifications

• High School diploma or equivalent;

• Minimum of 2 years of related experience;

• Demonstrated mechanical aptitude and familiarity/use of shop tools;

• Understanding of AC/DC current and experience with electrical/electronic equipment and systems (such as solar cells, sensors, etc.);

• Ability to maintain quality, safety, and control standards;

• Strong oral and written communication skills;

• Basic skill experience with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook);

• Team player with diverse interests and abilities to adapt and learn new skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• College or trade school degree from an accredited institution with an emphasis in meteorology, geology, hydrology, or related environmental science/engineering field;

• More than 2 years of related experience;

• Experience conducting multi-day fieldwork in adverse weather conditions;

• Previous experience with 4x4 off-road vehicle and trailer towing and knowledgeable in the use of emergency recovery tools (i.e., cable winches, hi-lift jacks, snow chains, tow straps);

• Previous experience using snowmobiles in backcountry terrain.

• Previous experience using multiple uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) platforms as a visual observer or pilot-in-command;

• Knowledgeable in wilderness first aid/medical egress and avalanche search and rescue beacon/probe use;

• Previous experience using and/or programing data loggers and electronic remote sensory data collection components;

• Previous experience using radio, cellular, and/or satellite remote data acquisition and communication systems;

• Fork lift certification.

Conditions of Employment

• Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background check;

• The applicant will be required to successfully complete a basic fabrication skills test, electronics troubleshooting test, and physical capabilities test. Supervised training with proper PPE and tool use will be provided for each specific topic prior to initiating these individual skills and aptitude tests;

• Ability to travel for multiday field trips (1-7 days) to remote locations for fieldwork, including vigorous work at high altitudes for extended periods of time;

• Must be able to travel as a team member and alone while working in harsh field conditions (hot and cold) for extended periods of time;

• Possess and maintain a valid US driver's license; if selected as a finalist, candidates will be asked to provide a copy of their motor vehicle driving record for review;

• Work environment involves exposure to potentially dangerous materials and situations that require following extensive safety precautions, including the use of protective gear;

• Operate and maneuver 4x4 vehicles and snowmobiles while towing heavy equipment in variable weather and road conditions;

• This position requires the ability to perform physical tasks, such as frequently moving or lifting objects up to 75 lbs. and occasionally up to 100 lbs., often enduring extreme summer and winter weather conditions in remote locations and carrying heavy loads on foot over unstable ground;

• This position will be required to climb vertical towers and work at heights of 20 feet or more and will operate field vehicles and snowmobiles in adverse conditions. May be regularly asked to work past normal (8hr) working hours to accomplish tasks.

Compensation Grade/Benefits

This is a DRI Technologist position, with a minimum starting salary of $48,487 for a grade 31.

The final starting salary will be commensurate with the successful candidate's education and experience. This position is eligible for overtime.

DRI offers a benefits package that includes health, dental, vision, and life insurance (flexible spending and health savings account options available); PERS 17.5% retirement match, 10 hours of annual leave and 10 hours of sick leave accrued per month, 12 paid holidays, and educational benefits. Additionally, there is no state income tax or social security deduction. This position is eligible for relocation assistance.

Organizational Summary

DRI is a recognized world leader in basic and applied environmental research. Committed to scientific excellence and integrity, DRI faculty, students who work alongside them, and staff have developed scientific knowledge and innovative technologies in research projects around the globe.

Since 1959, DRI's research has advanced scientific knowledge on topics ranging from humans' impact on the environment to the environment's impact on humans. DRI's impactful science and inspiring solutions support Nevada's diverse economy, provide science-based educational opportunities, and inform policymakers, business leaders, and community members. With campuses in Las Vegas and Reno, DRI serves as the non-profit research arm of the Nevada System of Higher Education.

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility

DRI is deeply committed to supporting a diverse and inclusive workforce and recognizes that encouraging a diverse culture strengthens problem solving skills and creativity and increases productivity. An inclusive and diverse environment improves the workplace culture and encourages employee engagement. DRI also takes measures consistent with Title IX to ensure the safety and wellbeing of its students, faculty, and staff. Additional information can be found at DRI's Diversity and Inclusion Webpage.

Exempt

No

Full-Time Equivalent

100.0%

Required Attachment(s)

Please upload the following documents in the specified section of your application in Workday:

1.A cover letter detailing your research experience, career goals, and project interests;

2.A current curriculum vitae or resume;

3.Contact information for three professional/work-related references, to be contacted at the appropriate phase of the recruitment process based on applicant permission.

Qualified individuals who meet all qualifications and requirements are encouraged to apply immediately and provide all required attachments to receive full consideration. Recruitment will close without notice when a sufficient number of applications are received, or a hiring decision has been made.

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR INTERNAL NSHE CANDIDATES

DRI employees or employees within the Nevada System of Higher Education (NSHE) MUST use the "Browse Jobs" report within Workday to find and apply for jobs at DRI and other NSHE Institutions. Once you log into Workday, type "Browse Jobs" in the search box which will navigate to the internal job posting site. Locate this specific job posting by typing the job requisition number, "R0142031" in the search box.

For more detailed information about DRI, please visit us at www.dri.edu. For questions regarding this position or assistance with your application, please email jobs@dri.edu or call the recruiting office at 775-673-7335.

Posting Close Date

05/15/2024

Note to Applicant

Applicants should fully describe their qualifications and experience with specific reference to each of the minimum and preferred qualifications. The search committee will use this information during the initial review of application materials.

References will be contacted at the appropriate phase of the recruitment process based on applicant notification and permission.

Newly hired faculty and postdoctoral fellows must assure that their official transcript is submitted to the Human Resources Office within 30 calendar days from the effective date of employment. Academic degrees must have been awarded by regionally accredited institutions.

This position may require a criminal background check to be conducted on the candidate(s) selected for hire.

As part of the hiring process, applicants for positions in the Nevada System of Higher Education may be required to demonstrate the ability to perform job-related tasks.

DRI employs only U.S. citizens and aliens authorized to work in the U.S. DRI only sponsors aliens applying for research faculty or postdoctoral fellow positions (J-1 or H-1B Visas).

All applicants hired by the Desert Research Institute are subject to E-Verify.