Natural Resources Researcher

Apply for the Natural Resources Researcher role at Clemson University
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Technical support for coastal ecology studies focused on vegetation communities and ecosystem processes. Duties include routine field and lab work related to monitoring wetland salinity, marsh and tree community composition, and forest productivity. Other duties as assigned.

• 45% – Essential – Field data collection missions: coordinate work and tidal schedules, gather equipment, prepare data sheets, drive truck and (16 ft. boat) trailer to river access sites, operate outboard motor boats, hike varying distances to study sites, perform water sensor maintenance and data download, collect marsh plant samples, measure tree growth.
• 40% – Essential – Data management: dry and weigh samples of tree (leaf) litter and bi‑annual herbaceous marsh plant samples; enter data into Excel, summarize, scan/digitize field data sheets, upload digitized files to online repositories.
• 15% – Essential – Other duties as assigned: may include assisting cooperators with field research, supporting Baruch Institute functions such as public programs and scientific meetings, and other tasks supporting the goals of the University, Institute, and faculty.

• Education – High School or Equivalent with related experience in environmental health, environmental quality control, or wildlife/fisheries management. A bachelor’s degree may substitute for the required work experience.
• Licenses – Class D driver’s license (≤ 26,000 mph).
• Work Experience – 1+ years of field techniques in orienteering and tree measurement.

• Education – Bachelor’s Degree in plant ecology, forestry, or similar natural resources emphases.
• Certifications – Department of Interior Motorboat Operators Certification Course.
• Work Experience – Wetland ecology studies including herbaceous plants, tree physiology, and salinity impacts; proficiency in driving and trailering “john boat”‑sized outboard motor boats.

• Firm Job Knowledge – Firm working knowledge of concepts, practices, and procedures, and ability to use them in varied situations.
• Supervisory Responsibilities – Supervises student workers only.
• Budgetary Responsibilities – No budget responsibilities for the department’s fiscal matters.

• Stand for prolonged period.
• Sit (stationary position) for prolonged period.
• Walk or move about.
• Use hands or feet to operate or handle machinery, equipment, etc.
• Ascend or descend (stairs, ladder).
• Position self to accomplish tasks (stoop, kneel, crawl).
• Communicate, converse, give direction, express oneself.
• Recognize or inspect visually.
• Move, transport, raise or lower.
• Extend hands or arms in any direction.
• Use taste or smell to detect or determine particular flavors or odors.
• Perceive, observe, clarity of vision.

• Exposure to heat or cold.
• Wet or humid environment.
• Noise.
• Vibration.
• Electrical hazards.
• Overnight travel.
• Exposure to natural elements (sun, insects, snakes).

Standard hours: 37.5 hours per week.

Anticipated salary range: $39,300 – $53,100, depending on experience, knowledge, skills, and performance.

Essential Level 1 employee; required to respond during emergency closures or modified operations, providing the University's initial response. Some positions may be required to work remotely or be on‑call.

Georgetown, SC.

January 1, 2026.

Military equivalency and veteran preference are supported. For qualifying positions, veteran applicants with eligible DD‑214 may receive preference. To claim veteran preference, email hrjob.

Clemson University is an EEO/AA employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to characteristics protected by applicable law, including disability and protected veteran status.