at University of Illinois in Urbana, Illinois, United States
Job Description
Visiting Scientific Specialist, SustainabilityThe Illinois Sustainable Technology Center (ISTC) is one of the five state surveys within the Prairie Research institute (PRI) at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. This position will be part of the Technical Assistance Program (TAP) at ISTC.
Job Summary
Collaborate with businesses and organizations, municipal entities, colleges and universities, manufacturing, and industrial entities throughout Illinois to provide technical assistance in identifying opportunities and implementing solutions that promote sustainable resource management. Solutions may include reducing and diverting solid waste, water conservation, reducing hazardous waste, reducing emissions, improving energy efficiency, etc. This position will primarily work as part of the Zero Waste Illinois team, but may support other areas.
Duties & Responsibilities
- Research - Data Analysis 40% Analyze data from pollution prevention assessments and identify opportunities for environmental savings. Target the triple bottom-line (People, Planet and Profit) by promoting identified opportunities and sustainable practices for businesses, municipalities, and state and federal agencies using research and assessment data. Develop business cases for implementation of sustainable practices using data collection. Collect, compile and document environmental outcomes and project outputs. Prepare project reports for funding sponsors.
- Client Engagement and Technical Assistance 40% Identify and secure clients within Illinois' business, government, and not-for profit arenas. These clients could include the Survey's current network of clients, consultants, vendors, local/state and federal agencies and private, environmental, and sustainability organizations. Conduct on-site pollution prevention assessments independently and in conjunction with representatives from the Survey and partner agencies. Identify material and process optimization; water conservation; energy efficiency; renewable energy and waste minimization opportunities within client facilities. Prepare reports for clients Identify material and process optimization; waste reduction and diversion, water conservation, and energy efficiency opportunities within client facilities and operations.
- Research - Technology Implementation 15% Assist clients with facilitation and implementation of Survey recommended opportunities using research and assessment data. Participate in pilot-scale projects for innovative technology demonstrations in the area of industrial waste minimization, energy and water conservation, and renewable energy. Collect, process, and analyze data from these activities for the purposes of identifying suitable technologies for introduction to businesses and organizations. Present technical reports/papers/data to clients and at professional events/conferences regarding services and/or research results. Prepare and disseminate technical reports and publications to be published in professional journals, newsletters, peer-reviewed journals, etc
- Other 5% Assist with research, data gathering and analysis, content development, and publications. Keep abreast of development in this discipline. Work jointly with a number of varied constituencies while observing standards of professional conduct. Perform other duties as needed in order to further the mission and goals of the Survey, PRI and University.
This is a remote position; the successful candidate can be located anywhere within IL. This position will work both from their home office and on-site visiting client facilities. Occasional in-person meetings will be required. Access to transportation is required. At times, lifting and carrying items in excess of 35 pounds may be involved. Some work may need to be performed in less than ideal conditions. Some of the work requires periodic travel. Occasional overnight travel may occur.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in environmental sciences, or related discipline and at least (1) year of relevant work experience. Alternate degree fields and internship experience will be considered based upon the nature and depth of the experience and/or other education as it relates to this position. Valid driver's license required.
Preferred Qualifications
Master's degree in environmental science, or related discipline and 2+ years of relevant work experience. Alternate degree fields and internships will be considered based upon the nature and depth of the experience as it relates to this position.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
- Effective communication, personal relations, collaboration, organizational, teamwork, and leadership skills. Demonstrated ability to perform effectively in a diverse and fast paced work environment consisting of multiple and changing priorities with stringent deadlines, under minimal supervision. Attention to detail, sound judgment, and strong conflict resolution skills. Must possess strong interpersonal skills and ability to work collaboratively with other scientists, researchers, staff and ISTC clients. Proficiency in Microsoft applications.
The minimum starting salary for the entry level Scientific Specialist level is $55,000.
Benefits: The University of Illinois offers a wide variety of benefits https://www.hr.uillinois.edu/benefits, including paid leave https://www.hr.uillinois.edu/leave and holidays https://www.hr.uillinois.edu/leave/holidays
Application Procedure and Deadline Information: For full consideration, please apply by 11:59pm May 31st 2024. To apply, please use the Apply Now button. Applications not submitted through https://jobs.illinois.edu will not be considered. Application materials must include a 1) a cover letter that clearly articulates how your qualifications and experience make you a viable candidate for this position and should address the qualifications listed above, 2) a CV or resume, and 3) the names and contact information including e-mail addresses of three professional references. All requested information and documentation must be submitted for applications to be considered. Incomplete applications will not be reviewed. Interviews may occur before the close date but no decisions or offers will be made until after.
For further information please contact Jon Freiman, Human Resources Business Partner, Prairie Research Institute, at jcf@illinois.edu or 217-244-2687. For questions regarding the application process, including technical issues, please contact 217-333-2137.
The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity employer, including but not limited to disability and/or veteran status, and complies with all applicable state and federal employment mandates. Please visit Required Employment Notices and Posters to view our non-discrimination statement and find additional information about required background checks, sexual harassment/misconduct disclosures, and employment eligibility review through E-Verify .
Applicants with disabilities are encouraged to apply and may request a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (2008) to complete the application and/or interview process. Requests may be submitted through the reasonable accommodations portal , or by contacting the Accessibility & Accommodations Division of the Office for Access and Equity at 217-333-0885, or by emailing accessibility@illinois.edu .
Requisition ID: 1024653
Job Category: Research
Apply at: https://jobs.illinois.edu
