Academic Hourly Assistant
Illinois Sustainable Technology Center
Prairie Research Institute
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
We are seeking an individual to participate in research and service projects related to institutional water treatment. This position is available immediately and is based in Champaign, Illinois.
Major Duties and Responsibilities:
- Conduct fieldwork to collect and test water samples including potable, boiler, closed and cooling towers and to conduct deposits and corrosion coupon analysis and evaluation. Fieldwork will include overnight travel throughout Illinois to 60-65 facilities including prisons, mental health centers, regional office buildings, and state parks. Each facility will be visited 1-6 times a year. Must be able to lift and carry 30-40 pounds of testing equipment for 100 yards.
- Provide a written analysis detailing any noted deficiencies in treatment or control with recommendations for corrective actions.
- Provide professional, non-biased advice regarding water treatment and corrosion control needs.
- Assure the quality and quantity of field services such as site visits and corrosion testing programs.
- Consult with users including the updating of control charts, water treatment, and equipment recommendations.
- Train institutional personnel through one-on-one training and/or staff seminars.
- Keep abreast of developments in this discipline.
- Perform other duties as needed in order to further the mission and goals of the Survey, PRI, and the University of Illinois.
Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in chemistry, environmental sciences, or related discipline. Alternate degree fields will be considered depending on the nature and depth of the experience at it relates to this position. Field and laboratory experience, experience with testing industrial water, and supervisory experience are required. Valid driver’s license. Knowledge of water treatment and operation of industrial water systems such as steam boilers or closed systems or cooling towers or softeners. Knowledge of laboratory safety procedures. Effective communication, personal relations, collaboration, organizational, teamwork, and leadership skills. Demonstrated ability to perform effectively in a diverse and fast-paced work environmental consisting of multiple and changing priorities with stringent deadlines, under minimal supervisor. Attention to detail, sound judgment, and strong conflict resolution skills. Proficiency in commonly employed software and databases.
Work up to 40 hours per week at $18 per hour.
Please submit via e-mail 1) a cover letter, 2) resume, and 3) the contact information of three academic or professional references to Michael Springman, Associate Engineer and Manager of Facilities Water Services, at springma@illinois.edu.
The University of Illinois is an Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action employer. Minorities, women, veterans and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply. For more information, visit http://go.illinois.edu/EEO. The University of Illinois conducts criminal background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer.
