Job Title
Research Specialist I-II
Agency
Texas A&M University - Corpus Christi
Department
Harte Research Institute
Proposed Minimum Salary
Commensurate
Job Location
Corpus Christi, Texas
Job Type
Staff
TAMU-CC is a dynamic university designated as both a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) and Minority-Serving Institution (MSI) with approximately 11,000 students from 47 states and 54 foreign nations. We employ over 1,400 full-time and 2,000 part-time Islanders (including students/GAs). The University attracts highly talented faculty and staff and offers an array of undergraduate and graduate degrees, including doctoral programs. As a member of the Texas A&M University System, TAMU-CC benefits from a range of resources, increased visibility and influence, and opportunities to collaborate in mutually beneficial ways with peers across member institutions and associated agencies.
TAMU-CC’s beautiful campus is located on a 240-acre island on Corpus Christi Bay and was ranked #1 College by the Sea by Best College Reviews. Our natural setting is enhanced by its modern, attractive, and state-of-the-art classroom buildings and support facilities.
PURPOSE
This position is responsible for field sampling, sample analysis and data management related to coastal water quality studies.
Functional Area 1: Research
Percent Effort: 75%
Works collaboratively with the P.I. to develop student work schedules
Manages all field sampling activities to ensure project success and personal safety
Operates university vehicles and boats to support field logistics, including transportation of personnel and equipment to research sites.
Performs sample processing upon return of samples to the laboratory
Perform other duties as assigned
Functional Area 2: Data Management
Percent Effort: 20%
Collects all lab data and enters it into master databases
Performs quality control checks on all data and metadata
Uploads data to appropriate data repositories
Functional Area 3: Training of team personnel
Percent Effort: 5%
Trains team personnel on field sampling safety and boat usage
Documents trainings
QUALIFICATIONS
Research Specialist I
Bachelor’s degree in related field of study.
Four (4) years of related experience.
Additional education may be used as a substitute for the minimum experience requirement.
Master’s degree in related field of study and two (2) years of related experience
Research Specialist II
Bachelor’s degree in related field of study.
Six (6) years of related experience.
Additional education may be used as a substitute for the minimum experience requirement.
Master’s degree in related field of study and four (4) years of related experience
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, & ABILITIES FOR BOTH LEVELS
Valid Driver's License
Experience operating small boats in estuarine waters
Ability to conduct field work under a variety of weather conditions
Experience operating water quality sondes
Experience with data management software
Strong attention to detail
Ability to multitask and work cooperatively with others
Ability to lift moderately heavy objects
Ability to exert heavy force
Work beyond normal business hours and/or work on weekends
SALARY: Commensurate with experience and qualifications.
$46,036.00-$59,576.00 Annual, Approximately
$3,836.34- $4,964.67 Monthly, Approximately
Note: This position is grant-funded. Continued employment is contingent upon continued funding.
Employment may be impacted by the Presidential proclamation issued on September 19, 2025 and the moratorium issued by Texas Governor Abbott on January 27, 2026.
BENEFITS (rules, policies, eligibility apply)
From our generousbenefits packageand professional development opportunities, to our retirement programs and our commitment to service excellence, the Island University is an engaging and rewarding place to work.
Medical
$0 - $30 per month for Employee Only coverage after university contribution ($920 value).
Up to 83% of premium covered by the university:
Employee and Spouse
Employee and Children
Employee and Family coverage
Dental & Vision
Life Insurance, Accidental D&D, Long Term Disability, Flexible Spending Account and Day Care Spending Account
ON-CAMPUS WELLNESS OPPORTUNITIES
Counseling, Work Life Assistance, Financial Resources, and Legal Resources
Public Loan Forgiveness
Book scholarships
100% tuition coverage for up to 18 credit hours per fiscal year (other rules may apply).
Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS) or Optional Retirement Plan (ORP)
Voluntary Tax Deferred Account/Deferred Compensation Plan
8+ hours of vacation paid time off every month.
8 hours of sick leave time off every month.
8 hours of paid time off for Birthday leave.
12-15 paid holidays each year.
All positions are security-sensitive. Applicants are subject to a criminal history investigation, and employment is contingent upon the institution’s verification of credentials and/or other information required by the institution’s procedures, including the completion of the criminal history check.
Equal Opportunity/Veterans/Disability Employer.
