Research Technician

Job Title

Research Technician

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

PURPOSE

The Research Technician, under general supervision, assists in planning research on support laboratory methods, techniques, carrying out procedures, and recording results for a series of closely controlled experiments. Work is performed under general supervision with evaluation based on the successful completion of tasks assigned.

 

DESCRIPTION

Functional Area 1: Research

Percent Effort: 60%

• Assist in conducting controlled suspended sediment exposure experiments.

• Analyze suspended sediment properties.

• Compile and review data and metadata.

• Drafts quarterly progress reports and manuscripts.

• Assists with collection and processing of coral samples and environmental data from experiments.

• Extracts, collects, and compiles data.

• Develops and maintains training materials for external users.

• Operates a university vehicle to pick up supplies and materials needed.

 

Functional Area 2: Aquarium System Support

Percent Effort: 30%

• Assist in the general maintenance and care of the aquarium system.

• Assist with detailed water chemistry test and logging.

• Observe and maintain proper water chemistry for optimal coral health.

• Maintenance of filtration and life support systems.

• Partake in scheduled water change regimens and saltwater mixing.

Functional Area 3: Other

Percent Effort: 10%

• Performs other duties as assigned.

 

QUALIFICATIONS

• High school diploma or GED

• Two (2) years of related experience

• Additional education may be used as a substitute for the minimum experience requirement:

  • Associates degree in related field

• Must have a valid driver’s license.

• Must be experienced and proficient with coral reef aquariums.

• Must fully understand water chemistry parameters and methods to adjust water parameters.

• Must be knowledgeable with coral species and care.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

• Ability to multitask and work cooperatively with others.

 

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's degree in science or related field

• Experience working in the aquarium and coral husbandry field.

• Work beyond normal business hours and/or work on weekends.

• Ability to lift moderately heavy objects.

SALARY: $16.25 Hourly ($33,800 Annual, 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.

• This position is grant-funded. Continued employment is contingent upon continued funding.

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.