Research Technician I–II (Coastal Ecology)

Location: Corpus Christi, Texas, United States; full-time onsite role involving laboratory work, boating, shoreline sampling, outdoor fieldwork, travel as needed, and long or nonstandard hours during field activities.

Salary: Up to $16.25 per hour for Research Technician I and up to $20.67 per hour for Research Technician II.

Company

hirify.global is a Hispanic-Serving and Minority-Serving Institution with research activities focused on coastal ecosystems through the Harte Research Institute.

What you will do

• Process laboratory samples, including benthic fauna, oyster tissue, water, and sediments.
• Identify invertebrate organisms using dichotomous keys and maintain accurate research records.
• Collect water and biological samples from boats and shorelines, often working in the water.
• Operate university vehicles and boats, prepare equipment, and support field logistics and safety procedures.
• Maintain and troubleshoot laboratory and field equipment, supplies, and inventory.
• Support educational outreach, laboratory tours, community engagement, and internal research reporting.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED.
• Two years of related field experience for Research Technician I or three years for Research Technician II.
• Valid driver's license and ability to travel as needed.
• Ability to work long or nonstandard hours during fieldwork and sample collection.
• Strong written and verbal communication, organization, and attention to detail.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds and work in physically demanding outdoor conditions.

Nice to have

• Bachelor's degree in a related field.
• Experience with Eastern oysters, benthic invertebrates, dichotomous identification keys, or coastal field and laboratory work.
• Current SCUBA certification and experience operating or trailering small vessels.
• Experience maintaining research equipment, using Microsoft Excel for data quality control, or conducting educational outreach.

Culture & Benefits

• Medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability coverage, and flexible spending accounts.
• Retirement options through the Teacher Retirement System of Texas or Optional Retirement Plan.
• Monthly vacation and sick leave, birthday leave, and 12–15 paid holidays annually.
• Tuition coverage of up to 18 credit hours per fiscal year, subject to applicable rules.
• Wellness, counseling, financial, legal, and work-life assistance programs.

Hiring process

• Final classification as Research Technician I or II depends on education, experience, and qualifications.
• Employment is contingent on credential verification and completion of a criminal history investigation.