Field Technician

The Upstate Freshwater Institute (UFI) is a not-for-profit research corporation dedicated to the improvement of water quality and advancement of freshwater research in NY.  UFI has conducted interdisciplinary research on over 100 New York waterbodies since 1981. UFI maintains an accredited laboratory (National Environmental Laboratory Accreditation Program) and the field team monitors the water quality of streams, rivers, and lakes around the state. UFI is looking for an entry-level, field technician to assist with a variety of water quality and lake monitoring projects during the summer and early fall of 2025.

Description of Field Technician Roles and Responsibilities

Field technicians' responsibilities and experiences vary from year to year, offering a unique and ever-evolving work environment.

Core responsibilities include:

• Collecting lake and stream water samples and conducting monitoring using limnological and oceanographic equipment under diverse weather conditions
• Assisting with calibration, maintenance, and preparation of scientific equipment
• Entering data and maintaining accurate field records
• Supporting general upkeep of company property, including vehicles, boats, and facilities

Additional opportunities may include:

• Assisting in the laboratory with the receipt and processing of samples
• Sorting, measuring, and analyzing dreissenid mussels
• Collecting sediment samples using Eckman dredges and gravity corers
• Identifying aquatic plants and enumerating zooplankton
• Performing underwater maintenance on scientific buoys
• Supporting UFI staff at local education and outreach events

Qualifications

This entry-level position is open to current undergraduate students, those expecting to graduate soon, and recent graduates with less than 3 years of additional experience. 

Ideal candidates will possess:

• An interest in limnology, biology, water chemistry, or natural resources management
• Motivation, adaptability, and a willingness to learn
• The ability to work independently and collaboratively
• Proficiency with technology
• Comfort with manual labor and working outdoors in various conditions
• A valid Boater Safety Certification

One of UFI’s projects requires all field staff assigned to that project to participate in a drug and alcohol screening process. This project also requires testing if an accident occurs while on site or while traveling between the office and worksite.

Preferred qualifications include:

• Ability to lift 30+ pounds
• First aid and/or CPR certification
• SCUBA certification
• A flexible schedule throughout the summer

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin.

Commitment and Schedule Expectations

This position runs from June 2 to October 6, with a preference for candidates who can extend their availability through November 3. Field technicians can expect to work 24-40 hours per week, depending on the time of year, current project needs, and staff scheduling. Work hours may vary, and while most shifts fall within standard workdays, longer days and early mornings may be required to accommodate weather or project needs. Occasional overnight fieldwork trips may also be necessary. Depending on project needs, UFI may require additional research assistance into early November.  Under these circumstances, UFI would request a one month extension to the internship and work with the student's schedule.   

Interviews will be scheduled with selected applicants in-person or virtually for the week of March 24th-28th.