The VICELAB tackles society's most pressing challenges in sustainability by leveraging cutting-edge technologies. Current foci include agrifood technology, geospatial analysis, climate smart practices in food-energy-water systems, ecosystem service quantification, community resilience, and inclusive innovation.

The Assistant Specialist duties will include, but are not limited to, assisting in smart farm development and deployment that will include project coordination, data collection, research equipment inventory and maintenance, and developing decision products for lead researchers. Assistant Specialist will provide direct supervision and management of both lab and field activities, not limited to chemical safety, field safety, and data integrity/management. Directed data collection, curation, and analysis will require use and deployment of RTK DGPS survey equipment, use of ArcGIS/ENVI/QGIS and/or Pix4D softwares, and use of R, Python, MatLab, or other mathematical and statistical softwares. Support of smart farm planning and develop will require high level interpretation and coordination of environmental engineering approaches, including but not limited to: preparing/reviewing technical reports, preparing and conducting data collection efforts, expanded engagement in project management (e.g., budget, quality assurance, EH&S, FAA) and preparing and conducting feasibility reports. Additional duty includes responsibility as lead operator for uncrewed aerial vehicle (UAV) and uncrewed aerial systems (UAS) for research purposes, responsibility as lead lab technician for all UAV/UAS inventory, its maintenance and performance, and integration into broader outreach efforts (i.e., CITRIS Aviation, FLY CITRIS) and coordination with UAV safety officers. Supervisory activities are required, as future obtainment of FAA Section 107 certification for UAV/UAS piloting as recognized by UC EH&S Drone Safety Center, ability to operate campus vehicles under campus policy, as well as successful participation in other applied research training activities such as CPR, First Aid, and MOTC. The Assistant Specialist will supervise as needed undergraduate and graduate student researchers in lab and field settings, developing and maintaining field safety protocols and best practices. The candidate will also assist in project development, writing project reports, technical publications, and academic articles as well as participate in science communication and training, including conferences, workshops, and industry events. They will also test new technologies and software as needed, providing leadership and guidance on research & development.

This is an exempt position, occasionally requiring an alternative work schedule on weekends and holidays.

As a condition of employment, you will be required to comply with the University of California SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) Vaccination Program Policy: . All Covered Individuals under the policy must provide proof of Full Vaccination or, if applicable, submit a request for Exception (based on Medical Exemption, Disability, and/or Religious Objection) or Deferral (based on pregnancy) no later than the applicable deadline. New University of California employees should refer to Appendix F, Section II.C. of the policy for applicable deadlines. (Capitalized terms in this paragraph are defined in the policy.) Federal, state, or local public health directives may impose additional requirements.

Applicants should have obtained a Master’s degree in Environmental Systems or a related field. Highly self-motivated individuals who have demonstrated the ability to conduct scientific research with strong written and verbal communication skills are encouraged to apply. Experience in lab and field settings, spatial data processing and proficiency in GIS software (ESRI or QGIS), and one or more coding language (MatLab, R, Python, etc.). Ability to operate campus vehicles under campus policy is required, as is occasional travel and/or alternative work schedules.

Successful applicants should be able to obtain certifications in FAA UAV piloting, First Aid, CPR/AED, and MOTC.

• Curriculum Vitae - Your most recently updated C.V.

• Cover Letter

• 2 required (contact information only)

The University of California is an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer and invites applications from all qualified applicants, including women, minorities, veterans, and individual with disabilities, who will enrich the teaching, research and public service missions of the university. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age or protected veteran status. For the complete University of California nondiscrimination and affirmative action policy, see: UC Nondiscrimination & Affirmative Action Policy .

The University of California, Merced, is the newest of the University of California system’s 10 campuses. With over 9,000 undergraduate and graduate students .

UC Merced is a smoke & tobacco free campus .