Job Title
Research Technician 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
Job Description
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
The Research Technician I or II will contribute to ongoing research with the Coastal Conservation and Restoration Ecology Group at the Harte Research Institute. This position supports a variety of field and laboratory efforts focused on oyster reefs and other coastal habitats. The Technician will assist with sample collection, processing, and data management in support of scientific studies aimed at understanding and restoring coastal ecosystems. The role involves a fast-paced, hands-on work environment, and applicants should be comfortable with physically active fieldwork including wading, boating, and working outdoors in variable conditions. This position may be filled at the Research Technician I or Research Technician II level. Final classification will be determined based on the selected candidate’s education, experience, and qualifications in accordance with applicable TAMU System job profile requirements.
DESCRIPTION
Functional Area 1: Research
Percent Effort: 60%
- Process samples in the laboratory (e.g., sorting benthic fauna, analyzing oyster tissue for disease, filtering water for chlorophyll and TSS, and preparing sediments for stable isotope analysis).
- Identify invertebrate organisms using dichotomous keys.
- Participate in field research, typically 1-2 days per week, including water and biological sample collection from boats or the shoreline. Fieldwork involves physical effort and often requires time in the water.
- Operate University vehicles to safely transport personnel and equipment in support of field sampling and research activities.
- Perform other duties as assigned
Functional Area 2: Operations
Percent Effort: 20%
- Maintain and troubleshoot laboratory and field equipment.
- Keep laboratory spaces clean, organized, and well-stocked.
- Track inventory and coordinate ordering of consumables, field gear, and outreach materials.
- Maintain organized and accurate data records.
- Coordinate and provide logistical support for field activities, including preparing equipment, loading vehicles, and ensuring safety protocols are followed.
- Operate University vehicles and conduct field sampling/research via boats
Functional Area 3: Support
Percent Effort: 20%
- Coordinate and participate in educational outreach events, including tabling, hands-on demonstrations, and community engagement activities.
- Maintain updated outreach materials and ensure that supplies and equipment and ready for use.
- Assist with laboratory tours by preparing spaces, guiding visitors, and helping communicate research activities.
- Provide internal support for reporting by gathering information, locating records, or summarizing activities as needed.
- Assist in identifying and troubleshooting logistical or operational issues and contribute to the development of effective solutions.
QUALIFICATIONS
Research Technician I
- High school diploma or GED.
- Two (2) years of related experience working in dynamic field settings such as intertidal or estuarine environments, or comparable experience in a related field.
- Valid driver’s license
- Willingness and ability to travel as needed and work long/nonstandard hours during fieldwork and sample collection.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Ability to lift and carry objects weighing up to 50 pounds.
Research Technician II
- High school diploma or GED.
- Three (3) years of relevant experience working in dynamic field settings such as intertidal or estuarine environments, or comparable experience in a related field.
- Valid driver’s license
- Willingness and ability to travel as needed and work long/nonstandard hours during fieldwork and sample collection.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Ability to lift and carry objects weighing up to 50 pounds.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor's degree in a related field.
- Field and/or laboratory experience with Eastern oyster (Crassostrea virginica) and other benthic invertebrates.
- Competence in identification and classification of invertebrates using dichotomous keys.
- Current valid SCUBA diving certification.
- Experience operating and trailering small vessels.
- Hands-on experience maintaining laboratory and field equipment.
- Familiarity with data entry and quality control procedures using Microsoft Excel.
- Educational outreach experience, including the ability to communicate research concepts to a broad audience.
SALARY: Commensurate based on experience and qualifications.
Research Technician I
- Up to $16.25 Hourly (Up to $33,800 Annually, Approximately)
Research Technician II
- Up to $20.67 Hourly (Up to $42,993.60 Annually, Approximately)
NOTE: 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 generous benefits package and professional development opportunities, to our retirement programs and our commitment to service excellence, the Island University is an engaging and rewarding place to work.
INSURANCE:
- 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
DUAL CAREER PARTNER PROGRAM
ON-CAMPUS WELLNESS OPPORTUNITIES
Work Life Solutions:
- Counseling, Work Life Assistance, Financial Resources, and Legal Resources
Tuition Benefits:
- Public Loan Forgiveness
- Book scholarships
- 100% tuition coverage for up to 18 credit hours per fiscal year (other rules may apply).
Retirement:
- Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS) or Optional Retirement Plan (ORP)
- Voluntary Tax Deferred Account/Deferred Compensation Plan
Time Off:
- 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.
