Pay Grade/Pay Range: Minimum: $56,600 - Midpoint: $73,600 (Salaried E9)
Department/Organization: 214231 - Civil Const and Env Engineering
Normal Work Schedule: Monday - Friday 8:00am to 5:00pm
Job Summary: The Research Engineer uses fundamental concepts, practices, and procedures of a particular field of specialization to perform varied scientific research requiring application and adaptation of established techniques, procedures, and criteria. Evaluates, selects, and applies standard scientific techniques, procedures, and criteria to accomplish a variety of research assignments. Performs various research projects to include conducting experiments, writing research proposals, writing technical papers and research reports.
Additional Department Summary: Supports PFAS research by maintaining and operating advanced analytical instrumentation, specifically liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) and combustion ion chromatography (CIC) for organic fluorine analysis. Oversees day-to-day operation, calibrations, diagnostics, repairs, and preventative maintenance of analytical systems. Develops and implements standard operating procedures (SOPs). Ensures laboratory safety compliance for chemical hazards associated with PFAS work. Contributes to method development, optimization of analytical workflows, and preparation of training resources (written SOPs, video tutorials, and hands-on demonstrations). Trains and supervises students and research staff in the safe and effective use of LC-MS/MS, CIC, and supporting sample preparation systems (solid phase extraction, TOC analyzers, etc.). Coordinates installation of new instrumentation, relocation of existing equipment (in collaboration with UA Facilities, vendors, and suppliers), and maintains documentation of equipment life-cycle management. Assists faculty in externally funded research projects through experimental execution, data collection, quality control, and preparation of technical reports and manuscripts.
Required Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor's degree and two (2) years of research experience; OR master's degree and some research experience.
Skills and Knowledge: Demonstrated experience in analytical chemistry or environmental engineering laboratory work, along with hands-on experience operating and maintaining LC-MS/MS and/or ion chromatography instrumentation. Familiarity with sample preparation workflows for trace organic contaminants such as solid phase extraction. Strong written and verbal communication skills. Ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary environment.
Preferred Qualifications: PhD. Experience with PFAS analysis, including EPA Method 1633 or related methods. Experience with combustion ion chromatography (CIC) or adsorbable/extractable organofluorine methods. Proficiency in instrument control and data processing software. Knowledge of QA/QC protocols for trace contaminant analysis and familiarity with laboratory safety practices involving hazardous chemicals. Experience training or supervising students in laboratory environments.
Background Investigation Statement: Prior to hiring, the final candidate(s) must successfully pass a pre-employment background investigation and information obtained from social media and other internet sources. A prior conviction reported as a result of the background investigation DOES NOT automatically disqualify a candidate from consideration for this position. A candidate with a prior conviction or negative behavioral red flags will receive an individualized review of the prior conviction or negative behavioral red flags before a hiring decision is made.
Equal Employment Opportunity: The University of Alabama is an Equal Employment/Equal Educational Opportunity Institution. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment or volunteer status without regard to any legally protected basis and will not be discriminated against because of their protected status. Applicants and employees of this institution are protected under Federal law from discrimination on several bases. More information is available in the EEOC’s Know Your Rights: Workplace discrimination is illegal poster.
