Senior Professional Research Assistant

Position Details
University of Colorado | Denver
Faculty Level/Title: Senior Professional Research Assistant
Working Title: Data Center Hydrologist
FTE: Part Time
Salary Range: $819.72 per month
Position #00723466 - Requisition #40194

About the University of Colorado Denver
Millions of moments start at CU Denver, a place where innovation, research, and learning meet in the heart of a global city. We're the state's premier public urban research university with more than 100 in-demand, top-ranked bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degree programs. We partner with diverse learners-at any stage of their life and career-for transformative educational experiences. Across seven schools and colleges, our leading faculty inspires and works alongside students to solve complex challenges and produce impactful creative work. As part of the state's largest university system, CU Denver is a major contributor to the Colorado economy, with 2,000 employees and an annual economic impact of $665 million. To learn more about how CU Denver helps learners meet their moment, visit ucdenver.edu.

Job Description
* Applications are accepted electronically ONLY at www.cu.edu/cu-careers *

This senior professional research assistant (PRA) will study the hydrologic impact of data centers in Colorado. A copy of the full project proposal will be available to candidate finalists.

Data Center Hydrologist
What you will do:
* The Senior PRA will spend 50% of their effort supporting co-PI Fernando Mancilla-David on Objective 1 for power and water demand analysis.
* The Senior PRA will spend 50% of their effort supporting PI Davd Mays for reports, talks, and papers.

Qualifications you already possess (Minimum Qualifications)
Applicants must meet minimum qualifications at the time of hire.
* MS in Civil Engineering.
* At least one year of civil engineering research experience.

Preferred Qualification to possess (Preferred Qualifications)
* Membership in at least one relevant professional organization.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
* Experience with engineering hydrology research.
* Attention to detail.
* Effective written and oral communication.
* Why-public health, safety, and welfare. How-Systematic technical analysis. Who-team player.

Conditions of Employment
* Occasional work during the evening and/or weekends may be required.
* This position follows a hybrid work structure where employees can work remotely or from the office, as needed, based on demands of specific tasks or personal work preferences. Working from the office is encouraged when working on tasks that require a high degree of collaboration.

Mental, Physical, and/or Environmental Requirements
* This position may be performed in a hybrid environment, requiring the ability to work effectively in a remote setting. This includes maintaining a dedicated workspace free of excessive noise or distractions, reliable internet connectivity, and the ability to participate in virtual meetings for extended periods. Employees must be able to independently manage time, remain stationary for prolonged computer-based work, and transport necessary equipment (such as a laptop and peripherals) between their remote work location and the office as needed.

CU is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. We are committed to creating a workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity, and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.
The University will provide reasonable accommodation to applicants with disabilities throughout the employment application process. To request an accommodation pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, please contact the Human Resources ADA Coordinator at workplaceengagement@ucdenver.edu .

Employment Sponsorship
Please be advised that this position is not eligible now or in the future for visa sponsorship.

Compensation and Benefits
The salary range (or hiring range) for this position has been established at $819.72 per month for the duration of 11 months.

The salary of the finalist(s) selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to, internal equity, experience, education, specialty, and training.

The above salary range (or hiring range) represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting.

This position is not eligible for overtime compensation.
Your total compensation goes beyond the number on your paycheck. The University of Colorado Denver provides generous leave, health plans and retirement contributions that add to your bottom line.

Benefits statement to include in all benefits-eligible positions. See Eligibility Matrix.

Benefits: https://www.cu.edu/employee-services/benefits

Total Compensation Calculator: http://www.cu.edu/node/153125

Application Deadline
Applications will be accepted until finalists are identified, and interviews begin. Preference will be given to complete applications received by June 16th, 2026. Those who do not apply by this date may or may not be considered.

Required Application Materials:
To apply, please visit: http://www.cu.edu/cu-careers and attach:
* One-paragraph letter of interest describing relevant job experiences as they relate to listed job qualifications and interest in the position.
* One-page resume outlining experiences
* List of three professional references including name, address, phone, and email. We will notify you prior to contacting both on and off-list references.

Questions should be directed to Professor Tanya Heikkila (tanya.heikkila@ucdenver.edu)

Background Check Policy
The University of Colorado Denver strives to maintain a safe and productive educational, clinical, research and employment environment. All prospective employees and current employees must, therefore, consent to and pass background checks prior to any final appointment/employment.