Researcher 2 - Soil Scientist (Dynamic Soil Properties)

Researcher 2 - Soil Scientist (Dynamic Soil Properties)

Position Summary: Performs structured research-related work assignments requiring knowledge and experience in relevant discipline; still acquiring knowledge and skills. Independently solves a range of straightforward problems and analyzes solutions using standard procedures. Receives some guidance and direction. Oversees the use of laboratory equipment, training personnel/volunteers, and maintaining equipment as necessary. Works as a member of a research team.

Job Duties:
(40%) Field Research and Data Collection (40%)

• Lead field sampling campaigns at Bonanza Creek Experimental Forest across burned and unburned watersheds.
• Conduct standardized soil pedon descriptions and sampling using USDA methods in collaboration with NRCS field staff.
• Establish and monitor transects across moisture and slope gradients. Develop and test field protocols for Alaska-specific Dynamic Soil Properties measurements.
• Install and maintain environmental monitoring equipment including soil moisture sensors, temperature probes, and dataloggers.
• Collect samples for laboratory analysis and maintain proper chain of custody procedures.
• Document field conditions, sampling protocols, and maintain detailed field notes

(30%) Laboratory Analysis and Method Development

• Conduct freeze-thaw incubation studies to investigate redoximorphic feature formation.
• Perform soil chemical characterization including pH, EC, and iron extraction analyses.
• Conduct physical characterization including laser particle size analysis.
• Develop standardized methods for describing cryostructures, excess ice content, and redoximorphic features in permafrost-affected soils.
• Maintain laboratory equipment and ensure quality assurance/quality control protocols.
• Process and prepare samples for external analyses as needed.

(20%) Data Management and Analysis

• Design and implement data management protocols for field and laboratory datasets.
• Perform statistical analysis and spatial modeling using R and/or Python. Develop machine learning models for digital soil mapping applications.
• Create and maintain relational databases. Ensure data quality, documentation, and metadata standards. Integrate datasets with existing USFS and NRCS databases and mapping products.

(10%) Communication and Collaboration

• Prepare technical reports, research summaries, and progress updates for project partners.
• Lead preparation of peer-reviewed manuscripts for publication.
• Present research findings at professional conferences and meetings.
• Collaborate with USDA Forest Service researchers, NRCS staff, and other project partners.
• Contribute to development of Ecological Site Descriptions and State and Transition Models. Assist with educational outreach activities including potential field course instruction.

Special Considerations

Extensive fieldwork at sites near Fairbanks, Alaska required during the shoulder and growing seasons (April-October). Work in challenging environmental conditions including variable weather and difficult terrain - requires the ability to hike over uneven terrain while carrying equipment. Some additional travel required for conferences and collaboration meetings. Field safety training including Wilderness First Responder and bear safety will be provided. Background check may be required for access to federal research sites. Valid driver's license (any state) required.

Required Qualifications:

• Minimum BS/BA in soil science, environmental science, or a related field and 2 years of related experience or equivalent combination of education and work experience to equal six (6) years; field course or experience in soil morphology/soil description.
• On-site field work in Fairbanks, Alaska, from April to October.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Cover letter strongly preferred when applying.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently in remote field conditions. Experience with Alaska-specific soil conditions and permafrost environments.
• Knowledge of dynamic soil properties (DSPs) measurement and characterization techniques.
• Working knowledge of high-performance computing (HPC) systems, particularly Minnesota Supercomputing Institute resources.
• Experience with soil chemical analyses including pH, EC, iron extractions, and redox measurements.
• Laboratory experience with particle size analysis, sample preparation, and freeze-thaw incubation studies. Field experience in permafrost environments and use of specialized sampling equipment (SIPRE auger/jackhammer).
• Expertise in cryostructure identification and redoximorphic feature characterization. Experience with data management, quality assurance/quality control protocols.
• Proficiency in R and/or Python for spatial data analysis and machine learning applications.
• Experience with geospatial analysis, remote sensing data, and GIS applications.
• Knowledge of relational database construction and metadata curation.
• Experience recovering and digitizing legacy soil survey data.
• Record of contributions to government reports or peer-reviewed journal articles related to permafrost, soil science, or related fields.

The mission of the Department of Soil, Water, and Climate is to advance the understanding of Earth system processes and the interaction among land, atmosphere, and water. Through research, teaching, and outreach we seek to:

improve and protect the quality of soil, air, and water resources in natural and managed ecosystems; enhance agricultural and forest productivity and sustainability; predict and mitigate impacts of environmental and climate change on ecosystems and society; and provide science based knowledge for improved decision making and a better informed citizenry.

Pay Range: $30.25 per hour - $31.80 per hour, depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment Category: 100% Appointment

Position Type: Civil-Service & Non-Faculty Labor Represented Staff

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:
• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume. Submitting a cover letter is strongly preferred.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America's Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).