Water Operator Trainee Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Please note, this position is not eligible for H-1B or Green Card sponsorship. This position does not offer a STEM OPT training program.

Position Summary / Primary Purpose of Position: 
The Williams lab in the Department of Soil, Water, and Climate at the University of Minnesota is seeking an experienced Research Professional 5 to serve as a key contributor to the development and operation of a new mobile research laboratory focused on air composition, air quality, environmental justice, and emergency response for environmental concerns. The successful candidate will bring a strong foundation in project management, instrumentation operation, mechanical-electrical-computer skills, data analysis, and a willingness to operate a cargo van during deployments. 

This position is available immediately. The work schedule is typically MondayFriday, with occasional weekend days during deployment periods. Outside of deployment periods the work schedule has increased flexibility to balance the deployments. 
Principal Position Functions: 

• 45% Lab Operation and Maintenance: This position will lead the mobile lab schedule coordination, deployment preparation activities, and vehicle operation.
• 40% Instrument Operation and Data Analysis: This position will calibrate and operate the onboard gas and particle analyzers (e.g., CO, O3, NOx, SO2, CO2, CH4, and N2O analyzers, PM counters, and PM mass analyzers). Data analysis will occur following each deployment. They will work collaboratively with a postdoctoral researcher and a graduate student who will be operating onboard gas and particle-phase mass spectrometers. This position may be responsible for mentoring undergraduate research assistants who will help with data processing. 
• 15% Research Documentation and Dissemination: Work with the PI to plan and draft extramural research proposals and disseminate study results through manuscripts and agency reports. Contribute to the preparation of presentations and other research communications. Participate in community events around air pollution and air quality education. Complete data management procedures.

Required Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience: 

• Advanced degree in environmental science, atmospheric science, engineering, or a closely related field, with 1 or more years of research training. 
• Hands-on experience with instrument calibration and operation. 
• Data analysis experience. 
• Strong organizational skills with experience in laboratory operations (e.g., purchasing, scheduling, maintenance, documentation, budgeting, etc.). 
• Effective written and verbal communication skills. 
• Familiarity with standard laboratory safety practices. 
• Valid drivers license with a good driving history and comfort with operating a cargo van sized vehicle. 

Preferred Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience: 

• 4 years of research experience. 
• Research experience in instrument development. 
• A strong publication record demonstrating independent research contributions.  
• Experience preparing research documentation such as manuscripts, grant applications, or regulatory submissions. 
• Proficiency in statistical analysis and/or coding (e.g., Python, R) for data analysis. 
• A willingness to learn and expand skillset and research interests. 
• An interest in community-engaged research and education.
• Previous experience mentoring or supervising trainees, particularly undergraduate students. 

Soil, Water, and Climate (SWAC) is an administrative unit within the College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences (CFANS). The mission of the Department is to advance the understanding of Earth system processes and the interaction among land, atmosphere, and water. 

Through research, teaching, and outreach we seek to: improve and protect the quality of soil, air, and water resources in natural and managed ecosystems; enhance agricultural and forest productivity and sustainability; predict and mitigate impacts of environmental and climate change on ecosystems and society; and provide science based knowledge for improved decision making and a better informed citizenry. 

Pay Range: $72,000 - $76,000 annually; depending on education/qualifications/experience 

Time Appointment: 100% Appointment

Position Type: P&A Staff 

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services 
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
• Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

While our salary ranges provide a framework, it is important to note that most of the
time, the initial pay may not reach the maximum of the range. This approach ensures
that compensation reflects the value and unique contributions of each candidate while
maintaining equity within our organization. As part of our commitment to fair and
equitable compensation, please be aware that the salary offered to incoming candidates
will be based on their individual credentials and experience.

Applications must be submitted online.  To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions.  You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

Application materials must include a resume/CV and a cover letter. The cover letter should describe previous research experience, relevant expertise in environmental sciences or engineering fields, any experience with laboratory operations, and how this position fits into your long-term career goals. 

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission.  The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.  To learn more about diversity at the U:  http://diversity.umn.edu

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by Forbes as a Best Employer for Company Culture (2026), Best Employer for Women (2023), and Best Employer by State (2022-2026). In 2026, we also received Culture Excellence & Industry Awards recognition for employee appreciation and work-life flexibility.