Duties & Responsibilities
- Research – Fieldwork/Data Collection – 50% Assist in the gathering of annual statewide water use data, the preparation of annual questionnaires to nearly 3000 facilities in Illinois, entering water use data, verifying records and modifying the IWIP databases and assisting in producing an annual summary report. Gather irrigation pumping data from local farm bureaus and irrigators as well as develop improved data collection and dissemination procedures. These data will be incorporated into the IWIP database to further characterize water resource use throughout Illinois. Coordinate with other staff working on wellhead protection area delineations to emphasize certain communities for improved and/or in-depth data collection.
- Research – Data Analysis/Interpretation & GIS – 25% Analyze data to look at trends, historical differences, etc., for its research value, including the use of relevant data in other Survey databases and providing data services and interpretive results to a wide variety of clients including internal staff. Develop tools for automated interpretation and QA/QC of data archived in the IWIP database. Assist in constructing data visualization and exploration applications to assist in dissemination of IWIP data. Modernize database structure as appropriate for broader data sharing and use (e.g., coordinate with PRI Data Stewardship committee).
- Research – Publications – 10% Assist in preparing technical reports, progress reports, and final reports in accordance with sponsor guidelines or program goals. Assist in preparing and maintaining maps or datasets for publication in print and online. Review and assist in accurately reporting IWIP data, in both sponsored reports and online dashboards.
- Engagement and Outreach – 10% Present research results to stakeholders and sponsors at local meetings and events. Engage the public and IWIP data providers at meetings and events around the state. Frequent written and verbal contact with irrigators, water operators, and other water professionals across the state. Engage irrigators and agriculture sector representatives to discuss the benefits of data sharing. Present research results to IEPA representatives to explain value and necessity of IWIP data in completing and assessing wellhead protection area delineations.
- Other – 5% Perform other duties as needed in order to further the mission and goals of the Survey, PRI, and the University of Illinois. Keep abreast of developments in this discipline.
Physical Demands and Working Conditions
The work is sedentary and involves remaining in a stationary position for extended periods of time working at a computer, using a keyboard and mouse, and using repetitive hand motions.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor's degree, preferably in Water Resources, Natural Resources, Environmental Resources, Physical Sciences, Geography, Data Management or related field. Alternate degree fields will be considered depending on the nature and depth of the experience as it relates to this position. Two years of experience in manipulating data, data analysis, and problem solving. Experience in water resources, GIS, and database management systems. Valid Driver's License.
Preferred Qualifications
Master’s Degree in Geography/GIS, Natural Resources or Environmental Science.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
- Experience with ArcGIS, MS Word, Excel, and Access (or similar business/office suite software). Effective communication, personal relations, collaboration, organizational, teamwork, and leadership skills. Demonstrated ability to perform effectively in a diverse and fast-paced work environment consisting of multiple and changing priorities with stringent deadlines, under minimal supervision. Attention to detail, sound judgment, and strong conflict resolution skills. An understanding of relational database structure and familiarity with groundwater and surface water data collection activities.
Appointment Information
This is a 100% full-time Academic Professional position, appointed on a 12-month basis. The expected start date is as soon as possible after 10/16/2026. Salary is commensurate with experience. The budgeted salary range for this position is $55,000 to $65,000. The salary is competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience, while also considering internal equity. It is not typical for an individual to be offered a salary at or near the top of the full range.
This position is eligible for sponsorship for work authorization, except for sponsorship of a new H1b petition that would incur the $100,000 fee. Please note interviews may take place before the close of the job ad. No offers will be extended until after the close of the job advertisement.
Application Procedures & Deadline Information
Applications must be received by 6:00 pm (Central Time) on October 2nd 2026 . Apply for this position using the Apply Now button at the top or bottom of this posting. Applications not submitted through https://jobs.illinois.edu will not be considered. For further information about this specific position, please contact Jon Freiman jcf@illinois.edu. For questions regarding the application process, please contact 217-333-2137.