Erosion and Stormwater Researcher 3

Visa Language: Please note, this position is not eligible for H-1B or Green Card sponsorship. This position does not offer a STEM OPT training program.

Position Overview
This position will support research, outreach, and other activities within the Erosion and Stormwater Management Certification Program. This position will be responsible for running experiments, collecting data, writing reports on the data and presenting the results.

Location and Work environment: This position is in-person and will be located on the St. Paul Campus of the University of Minnesota. Some research activities may occur in the field and some occasional travel around Minnesota or the nation is expected. The University of Minnesota provides a Regent Scholarship for employees who take additional classes, and this position will allow flexibility for taking classes each semester to achieve an advanced degree.

Work Schedule: Work hours are flexible, but are typically expected to be 7:45am to 4:30pm weekdays with some rare occasions for weekend or night work. In-person - St. Paul Campus

Responsibilities

• 60% Running experiments, collecting, and processing data
  • Design, set up, and execute laboratory and field experiments to evaluate the performance and effectiveness of erosion and sediment control products, systems, and methodologies. This includes preparing test materials, calibrating and operating specialized equipment, and ensuring adherence to established research protocols and safety standards. Fieldwork may involve installing and maintaining instrumentation in outdoor environments, often under variable weather and site conditions, as well as monitoring ongoing tests and troubleshooting equipment as needed. Laboratory work may include operating flumes and other hydraulic testing apparatus, simulating real-world conditions, and ensuring accurate measurement of sediment transport, water flow, and product performance. Responsibilities also include collecting, organizing, and validating raw data; performing preliminary data analysis; maintaining detailed records of experimental procedures and observations; and ensuring data integrity and reproducibility across trials.

• 20% Presenting results in meetings or events

  • Prepare and deliver clear, concise, and audience-appropriate presentations summarizing research objectives, methodologies, findings, and recommendations. This may include presenting to internal research teams, project stakeholders, industry partners, or at professional conferences and outreach events in-person or on-line. Responsibilities include developing presentation materials such as slides, visual data summaries, and technical graphics; explaining complex technical concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences; and responding to questions or feedback. May also contribute to collaborative discussions on research direction, interpretation of findings, and potential applications or improvements to tested products and methods

  20% Reporting, writing, and administrative activities

  • Compile, analyze, and synthesize research findings into comprehensive written reports, including interim updates and final deliverables. This includes drafting technical documentation, summarizing methodologies, interpreting results, and ensuring accuracy and clarity in all written communications. Assist in developing materials for broader dissemination of results, such as website content, summaries, or outreach materials. Support administrative and operational functions of the research program, including maintaining and updating project websites, ordering and inventorying research supplies, coordinating the scheduling and use of research vehicles and equipment, and ensuring proper documentation and data entry in relevant systems. May also assist with maintaining compliance documentation, tracking project timelines, and supporting overall project coordination.

Required Qualifications (must be mentioned on application/resume):

• BA/BS Degree in Bioproducts and Biosystems Engineering or related degree plus at least four years of relevant experience, or a combination of education and relevant work experience to equal at least eight years.
  

Preferred Qualifications:

• Research experience
• MS Degree
• 4+ years of work experience in construction, erosion control and research

Department Overview:

The department of Bioproducts and Biosystems Engineering discovers and teaches solutions for the sustainable use of renewable resources and the enhancement of the environment. The department also houses the Erosion and Stormwater Management Certification Program, which provides training and research on erosion and stormwater management.

College Overview:

The College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences (CFANS) is composed of 27 programs: 14 undergraduate and 13 graduate programs in disciplines involving food, agricultural, and natural resource sciences. CFANS also has 10 research and outreach centers across Minnesota, plus the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, the Bell Museum, and dozens of interdisciplinary centers that span the college, the university, and the globe. Undergraduate enrollment in the college is about 2000 students. CFANS students are well-prepared for a diverse, multicultural workforce through the college's emphasis on experiential, interdisciplinary, and intercultural learning; internships and global perspectives.
At CFANS, we aim to inspire minds, nourish people, and enhance the natural environment, and we believe that's only possible if everyone feels seen, heard and respected. Our College embraces equity and diversity and prioritizes purpose-driven scientific discovery in order for us to build a better tomorrow, together. We align with the University of Minnesota in providing 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.

Pay Range: $36 - $37.85 per hour/ ($74,880 - $78,728/yr); depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment: 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:

• 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
• Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

While our salary ranges provide a framework, it is important to note that most of the
time, the initial pay may not reach the maximum of the range. This approach ensures
that compensation reflects the value and unique contributions of each candidate while
maintaining equity within our organization. As part of our commitment to fair and
equitable compensation, please be aware that the salary offered to incoming candidates
will be based on their individual credentials and experience.

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.

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 Forbes as a Best Employer for Company Culture (2026), Best Employer for Women (2023), and Best Employer by State (2022-2026). In 2026, we also received Culture Excellence & Industry Awards recognition for employee appreciation and work-life flexibility.