Field Research and Development Eng. 3 - 138123

Uses skills as a seasoned, experienced engineering professional in a specialized engineering field on a major training and / or research effort. Assignments typically require concentration in a field of application where subject matter knowledge relevant to research objectives and methodology is of great value in understanding and establishing engineering design criteria. Demonstrates good judgment in selecting methods and techniques for obtaining solutions.

The Field Research and Development Engineer 3 role is focused across four primary domains: engineering and design work, fieldwork, design and management of data workflow, and supporting role in managing growth of observational networks. The Engineer will apply advanced engineering concepts to design and implement solutions that support a broad range of field and research objectives as a seasoned engineering professional. In leading CW3E's data workflow, the Engineer will oversee and manage the acquisition, processing, quality control, and dissemination of CW3E's land-based observational data. Additionally, the Engineer will serve as the CW3E lead for the operation, project management, and expansion of Colorado-based observation networks, including using data, in collaboration with partners, to advance scientific knowledge and support resource management and decision making. Another key component of the job is the leadership and coordination of the Colorado fieldwork needed for maintenance and expansion of the growing network. In all areas, the position is expected to operate with a high degree of independence, demonstrating initiative, innovation, and technical leadership with minimal supervision.

Beyond these primary responsibilities, the position will support relevant research projects that rely on hydrometeorological monitoring, provide mentorship and technical guidance to junior researchers, interns, engineers, and graduate students. The Engineer will be required to present network overviews and data analyses at scientific and stakeholder meetings and conferences, and contribute to peer-reviewed contributions to the scientific literature. The position will also maintain strong working relationships and coordination with stakeholders and partner agencies supporting existing and planned networks in Upper Colorado. This role requires a highly motivated and adaptable professional capable of managing complex work assignments and assuming additional responsibilities as project needs evolve.

• Thorough knowledge and experience with engineering principles and methods to independently perform the full range of engineering professional design work. Demonstrated knowledge and experience in materials selection, fabrication techniques, procurement procedures, assembly techniques, testing, troubleshooting, and calibration methods used in hydrometeorological instrument development and production. Skill in designing new sensors and complex analog and digital electronic circuitry.

• Thorough knowledge necessary to apply principles, practices and procedures in the completion of assignments. Knowledge of hydrological measurement principles for streamflow, soil moisture, and other parameters. Demonstrated ability to develop new methods for scientific investigation and to translate data information requirements to hardware capable of collecting such information.

• Demonstrated organizational and decision-making abilities to prioritize competing work assignments in order to meet deadlines and adherence to quality standards. Knowledge and experience in project management to estimate, track and report cost of equipment and personnel, and ensure completion of work by deadlines with adherence to quality standards. Demonstrated experience to provide guidance in an environment of changing priorities and deadlines in the laboratory and in the field.

• Strong analytical and judgment skills to independently conduct analyses and develop appropriate recommendations.

• Effective written and verbal communication and presentation skills. Proven ability to convey complex information in a clear and concise manner. Proficient writing skills, especially for proposal and specialized technical report publication.

• Ability to work in a collaborative manner; identify challenges and barriers and recommend resolutions.

• Ability to lead and influence others.

• Proven ability to work in ambiguous conditions and take relevant responsible action as required. Ability to exercise independent judgment in the field and in the lab.

• Excellent interpersonal communication skills including thoughtfulness, diplomacy and flexibility with students, staff, faculty, collaborators, stakeholders, communities, and partners from diverse backgrounds and cultures.

• Willingness and demonstrated ability to embrace and consistently uphold the principles of community for a collaborative work environment.

• Demonstrated ability to use independent judgment and make responsible and safety-conscious decisions in the lab and in the field.

• Proven ability to develop and maintain strategic relationships and partnerships with remote stakeholders and partners.

• Demonstrated knowledge, experience, and understanding of computer systems used in engineering environments: Microsoft Windows, Mac OS, UNIX, and LINUX. Proven ability to program in a variety of languages for instrument design, instrument and sensor performance review, data quality checking, and data processing. Proven experience in mechanical and electronic CAD software necessary for hydrometeorological instrument development.

• Proven experience in planning and performing laboratory work and fieldwork necessary to meet project objectives in a safe manner including when traveling with hazardous materials, in adverse conditions such as travel within mountain regions at high altitudes, travel to wet and dry regions, travel in extreme weather including extreme heat, extreme cold and extreme wet, travel in vulnerable areas during wildfire season, and travel to remote mountain areas in all seasons including winter travel by tracked vehicles, skis, and snowshoes.

• emonstrated ability to independently design and execute scientific investigations supporting hydrometeorological research objectives, including developing experimental methods, analyzing data, and interpreting results. Proven experience translating research findings into actionable insights, technical reports, and publications that advance scientific understanding and operational capabilities.

• Job offer is contingent upon satisfactory clearance based on Background Check results.
• Required to hold valid driver's license, have a driving record that is in accordance with local policies/procedures, and/or enroll in the California Employer Pull Notice Program.
• Must be willing to go in the field for up to two months per year for periods of up to three weeks throughout the year.
• Evenings and weekends may be required.
• Must be willing to work with hazardous materials.
• Must be able to work under adverse conditions and perform fieldwork in variable terrain.
• Must be willing to perform fieldwork in variable terrain using rugged 4WD vehicles, ships, small boats, helicopters, and small planes.

If employed by the University of California, you will be required to comply with our Policy on Vaccination Programs, which may be amended or revised from time to time. Federal, state, or local public health directives may impose additional requirements.

To foster the best possible working and learning environment, UC San Diego strives to cultivate a rich and diverse environment, inclusive and supportive of all students, faculty, staff and visitors. For more information, please visit UC San Diego Principles of Community.

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state or federal law.

For the University of California's Anti-Discrimination Policy, please visit: https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/1001004/Anti-Discrimination

UC San Diego is a smoke and tobacco free environment. Please visit smokefree.ucsd.edu for more information.

Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: As a condition of employment, the final candidate who accepts an offer of employment will be required to disclose if they have been subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct; or have filed an appeal of a finding of substantiated misconduct with a previous employer.

a. "Misconduct" means any violation of the policies governing employee conduct at the applicant's previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment, or discrimination, as defined by the employer. For reference, below are UC's policies addressing some forms of misconduct:

• UC Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment Policy
• UC Anti-Discrimination Policy
• Abusive Conduct in the Workplace