Multibeam Sonar Specialist

The Department of Physics and Astronomy advances science and innovation and educates the next generation of talented scientists and engineers who love challenges and thrive in an intellectually stimulating environment.

Job Duties and Responsibilities
Data Acquisition and Survey Design
* Design multibeam sonar surveys tailored to the specific objectives of the LLO project in Lake Superior, off Two Harbors, MN.
* Develop methodologies and protocols to ensure the successful acquisition of high-quality multibeam sonar data using the R/V Blue Heron.
* Coordinate with project stakeholders to align survey design with academic research goals.
Data Processing
* Process the acquired multibeam sonar datasets to ensure accuracy and reliability for research purposes.
* Apply advanced techniques and software tools to analyze and interpret sonar data.
* Generate comprehensive reports and visual outputs, such as bathymetric maps, to support the LLO project's findings.
Training and Skill Development
* Provide hands-on training to LLO staff on the design, acquisition, and processing of multibeam sonar surveys.
* Develop instructional materials, guidelines, and documentation to facilitate future independent operations by LLO staff.

Required Qualifications
* Demonstrated expertise in designing, acquiring, and processing multibeam sonar datasets for academic research projects.
* Proficiency with multibeam sonar equipment and associated software for data processing and interpretation.
* Strong background in survey design and implementation, particularly in aquatic environments such as Lake Superior.

Preferred Qualifications
* Experience in training and mentoring staff to develop technical competencies in sonar data handling.

Pay Range: $42.84 - $82.19 per hour depending on education/qualifications/experience.

Retirement plan options are available for Civil Service, Faculty, Labor-Represented, Professional & Administrative, and Temp Casual classifications. Learn more about retirement plans.

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.

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.

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University of Minnesota, Duluth (UMD)

The University of Minnesota, Duluth (UMD) consistently ranks among the top Midwestern, regional universities in U.S. News and World Report's "America's Best Colleges" issue.

Overlooking Lake Superior, UMD provides an alternative to both large research and small liberal arts environments and attracts students looking for a personalized learning experience on a medium-sized campus of a major university. A firm liberal arts foundation anchors a variety of traditional degree programs, as well as professional and graduate students that draw on UMD's many research institutes and labs.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America's Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).