New

Research Technician - Applied Aquatic Ecology Center

North Carolina State University

$ 34,320 - $ 72,734

life insurance, flexible benefit account, paid time off

United States, North Carolina, Raleigh

Feb 20, 2026

Job Posting Information

Posting Number	PG194871SP
Internal Recruitment	No
Working Title	Research Technician - Applied Aquatic Ecology Center
Anticipated Hiring Range	Commensurate with Experience ($53,000 - $54,000)
Work Schedule	Monday - Friday, 9am - 6pm (some evenings and weekends may be required)
Job Location	Raleigh, NC
Department	Applied Aquatic Ecology Center
About the Department	The overall goals of the Center for Applied Aquatic Ecology ( CAAE) are to provide water quality information to optimize management of water resources and to provide opportunities for students and teachers through education/outreach programs. Our work requires various facilities and equipment, such as a state-certified water quality analytical laboratory and real-time remote monitoring field instrumentation. High-quality data from the CAAE contributes to the State environmental agency's water quality database and to NCSU students' research projects. CAAE water quality monitoring/research programs help safeguard potable source-water reservoirs depended upon by approximately 750,000 North Carolinians. CAAE programs also track water quality in selected estuaries and marine coastal areas.
Wolfpack Perks and Benefits	As a Pack member, you belong here, and can enjoy exclusive perks designed to enhance your personal and professional well-being. As you consider this opportunity, we encourage you to review our Employee Value Proposition and learn more about what makes NC State the best place to learn and work for everyone. What we offer: Medical, Dental, and Vision Flexible Spending Account Retirement Programs Disability Plans Life Insurance Accident Plan Paid Time Off and Other Leave Programs 12 Holidays Each Year Tuition and Academic Assistance And so much more! Attain Work-life balance with our Childcare benefits, Wellness & Recreation Membership, and Wellness Programs that aim to build a thriving wolfpack community. Disclaimer: Perks and Benefit eligibility is based on Part-Time or Full-Time Employment status. Eligibility and Employer Sponsored Plans can be found within each of the links offered.
Essential Job Duties	Join our team at the CAAE's state-certified laboratory, where your work will directly support water quality research and meaningful community education initiatives. We are seeking a detail-oriented and motivated Research Technician to perform water quality analyses using sophisticated instrumentation and established analytical techniques. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to environmental research while also engaging with students, educators, and community groups through our outreach programs. What You'll Do In this role, you will: Conduct comprehensive water quality analyses, including nutrients (nitrogen, phosphorus, nitrate, ammonia/ammonium, total Kjeldahl nitrogen, soluble reactive phosphorus), suspended solids, chlorophyll a, and fecal bacteria in accordance with the CAAE Standard Operating Procedures. Operate and maintain advanced laboratory instrumentation, including auto-analyzers and specialized research equipment. Prepare reagents, calculate chemical quantities, and ensure precise application for analytical procedures. Monitor data quality, identify discrepancies, and organize and prepare datasets for analysis and reporting. Provide preliminary summaries of laboratory procedures, tests, and research findings. Perform routine maintenance and minor repairs on laboratory equipment to ensure optimal performance. Maintain an organized, safe, and compliant laboratory environment in alignment with QA/QC, sanitation, and safety protocols. Manage laboratory inventory, track supply usage, and coordinate ordering of materials for analytical and bacterial testing. Collaborate with special projects, including nutrient analysis and coordinated research efforts with ancillary units. Independently prepare and maintain bench layouts to support efficient laboratory workflow. Education & Outreach Engagement Beyond the lab, you'll have the opportunity to make science accessible and inspiring by: Assisting with the CAAE's education and outreach initiatives. Hosting visiting groups for laboratory tours and hands-on activities. Supporting laboratory and field-based educational experiences. Coordinating and utilizing interactive tools such as the Augmented Reality Sandbox. Traveling occasionally to off-campus locations for scientific and educational activities. What We're Looking For Strong technical skills in laboratory analysis and instrumentation. Ability to work independently with minimal supervision. Excellent attention to detail and commitment to quality assurance and safety standards. Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple responsibilities. Enthusiasm for engaging with students and community audiences in an educational setting.
Other Responsibilities	Other tasks and responsibilities may be assigned based on the needs of the organization and evolving priorities.

Qualifications

Minimum Experience/Education	Demonstrated possession of the competencies necessary to perform the work.
Preferred Qualifications	Must be willing to travel to collect water samples, and for scientific and educational activities. Must have excellent organizational skills with strong attention to detail and record-keeping. Working knowledge of Quality Assurance/Quality Control and Standard Operating Procedure documents. Proficiency in Excel. Experience in an analytical laboratory setting.
Required License or Certification	Valid Driver's License and the ability to obtain and NC Driver's License within 60 days of hire.
Valid NC Driver's License required	Yes
Commercial Driver's License Required?	No

Recruitment Dates and Special Instructions

Job Open Date	02/20/2026
Earliest Close Date---- (Positions will be posted until 5:00 PM ET on this date. Positions remaining posted after this date are still accepting applications but may close at any time.)	02/26/2026
Notice to Applicants	Please make sure that the work history you list on your application is identical to the work history listed on your resume. The application must be filled out completely, do not use the phrase "see resume".
Special Instructions	Please include as attachments a resume/CV, cover letter, and contact information for at least 3 professional references.

Position Details

Position Number	00108866
Position Type	SHRA
Position Classification Band Title	Research Technician
Position Classification Band Level	Advanced
Position Classification Salary Range	$ 34,320 - $ 72,734
Salary Grade Equivalency	MH08
Alternate Option	If no applicants apply who meet the required competency level and training & experience requirements, then management may consider other applicants. Salary would be determined based on competencies, equity, budget, and market considerations.
Full Time Equivalent (FTE) (1.0 = 40 hours/week)	1.00
Appointment	12 Month Recurring
Mandatory Designation - Adverse Weather	Non Mandatory - Adverse Weather
Mandatory Designation - Emergency Events	Non Mandatory - Emergency Event
Time Limited Position	No
Time-Limited Appointment Length (if applicable)
Department Id	112104 - Applied Aquatic Ecology Center
EEO	NC State University is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal opportunities for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, and veteran status. The University encourages all qualified applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities, to apply. Individuals with disabilities requiring disability-related accommodations in the application and interview process are welcome to contact 919-513-0574 to speak with a representative of the Office of Equal Opportunity. If you have general questions about the application process, you may contact Human Resources at (919) 515-2135 or workatncstate@ncsu.edu. Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. Degree(s) must be obtained prior to start date in order to meet qualifications and receive credit. NC State University participates in E-Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States.