Visiting Scientific Specialist, Water Resources Engineering
University of Illinois

Hydrology
Water Supply Planning
Illinois State Water Survey
Prairie Research Institute
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

The Prairie Research Institute (PRI) is seeking to hire a Water Resources Engineer (Official Title: Visiting Scientific Specialist, Water Resources Engineering) to administer research activities of the Survey by developing, planning, directing, and conducting basic and applied research as it relates to water resources hydrologic modeling, water-energy nexus, and water supply planning in the Watershed Sciences Section. https://www.isws.illinois.edu/watershed-science

This position setting is in the Illinois State Water Survey (ISWS). ISWS is part of the Prairie Research Institute at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, which is centrally located between Chicago, St. Louis, and Indianapolis. ISWS research and service programs provide citizens, industries, and government agencies at all levels with timely, science-based information and analyses necessary to manage our water resources wisely for economic development and a sustainable environment. ISTC integrates applied research, technical assistance, and information services to advance efforts in the areas of pollution prevention; water and energy conservation; and materials recycling and beneficial reuse. Learn more at https://prairie.illinois.edu/

Job Summary
Administer research activities of the Survey by beveloping, planning, directing, and conducting basic and applied research as it relates to water resources hydrologic modeling, water-energy nexus, and water supply planning in the Watershed Sciences Section.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Research (95%) Work with PI to prepare hydrologic modeling of water resources in Illinois and beyond Use hydrologic modeling to research water-energy nexus usage across the state Study water supply usage, drainage, and recharge within individual watersheds and relationship between watersheds in the region Research and test various water resources engineering platforms and modeling programs for optimum results Work closely with hydrologists to develop, calibrate, validate and maximize efficiency through hydrologic models to assist water supply studies
• 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

Walking : Occasionally

Stairs : Constantly

Sitting : Occasionally

Lifting/Carrying : Occasionally

Pushing/Pulling : Occasionally

Climbing : Occasionally

Balancing : Occasionally

Bending/Stooping : Occasionally

Kneeling : Occasionally

Squatting/Crouching : Occasionally

Working Conditions

Extreme cold : Occasionally

Extreme heat : Occasionally

Humidity : Occasionally

Wet : Occasionally

Noise : Occasionally

Hazards : Occasionally

Fumes/Particles/Allergens : Occasionally

Toxic, Caustic Chemicals : Occasionally

Temperature Changes : Occasionally

Inclement Weather : Occasionally

Travel Requirements
5% project meeting and conferences

Minimum Qualifications

Masters Degree in Civil Engineering, Agriculture, Earth Sciences/Engineering, or related field. Alternate degree fields will be considered depending on the nature and depth of the experience at it relates to this position. A minimum of 2 years experience programming with Python and/or other computer languages. Must have proficiency in watershed hydrologic modeling such as SWAT or HSPF models and the use/creation of databases. Experience with Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and GIS tools. Valid Driver's License

Preferred Qualifications

Strong programming skills with Python and other computer languages. Strong quantitative and statistical analytical skills. Experience writing peer reviewed
journal papers.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Effective communication, personal relations, collaboration, organizational, teamwork, and leadership skills. Demonstrated ability to perform effectively in a diverse and fastpaced work environment consisting of multiple and changing priorities with stringent deadlines, under minimal supervision. Attention to detail, sound judgment, and strong conflict resolution skills. Proficiency in commonly-employed software and databases. Ability to apply analytical and scientific thinking to define and solve problems.

Appointment Information: This is a full-time visiting academic professional appointment renewable annually based on satisfactory progress in the position and continued funding. The position may become a regular, non-visiting position at a later date depending on funding and programmatic need. The budgeted amount for this position is $55,000 to $70,000. 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 for a position.

Benefits: The University of Illinois offers a wide variety of benefits https://www.hr.uillinois.edu/benefits, including paid leave https://www.hr.uillinois.edu/leave and holidays https://www.hr.uillinois.edu/leave/holidays

Application Procedures & Deadline Information

For full consideration, please apply by 6:00 p.m. Central on October 14th, 2024 To apply, please use the Apply Now button. Applications not submitted through https://jobs.illinois.edu will not be considered. Application materials must include a 1) a cover letter that clearly articulates how your qualifications and experience make you a viable candidate for this position and should address the qualifications listed above, 2) a CV or resume, and 3) the names and contact information including e-mail addresses of three professional references. All requested information and documentation must be submitted for applications to be considered. Incomplete applications will not be reviewed. Interviews may occur before the close date but no decisions or offers will be made until after.

For further information please contact Jon Freiman, Human Resources Business Partner, Prairie Research Institute, at jcf@illinois.edu or 217-244-2687. For questions regarding the application process, including technical issues, please contact 217-333-2137.

The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity employer, including but not limited to disability and/or veteran status, and complies with all applicable state and federal employment mandates. Please visit Required Employment Notices and Posters to view our non-discrimination statement and find additional information about required background checks, sexual harassment/misconduct disclosures, and employment eligibility review through E-Verify .

Applicants with disabilities are encouraged to apply and may request a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (2008) to complete the application and/or interview process. Requests may be submitted through the reasonable accommodations portal , or by contacting the Accessibility & Accommodations Division of the Office for Access and Equity at 217-333-0885, or by emailing accessibility@illinois.edu .

Requisition ID: 1026776
Job Category: Research
Apply at: https://jobs.illinois.edu

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