UNAVCO, Inc. is accepting applications to develop a pool of applicants for Engineer I (entry-level) positions. This pool will be used to primarily fill the immediate need of an exempt Engineer I position for the Networks of the Americas (NOTA) within the San Clemente, CA office or hybrid office/remote location within Southern California.

As other Engineer I position across UNAVCO become available, applicants within the pool may be considered. Applications for future positions will be based on staffing needs and will considered through March 1, 2022.

APPLICATION PROCESS: Applications will only be accepted via UNAVCO's career website at https://www.unavco.org/careers/. Application review for the Engineer I position in San Clemente, CA will begin July 26, 2021.

Application materials and must include a cover Letter outlining your specific experience with and interest in this position and a complete resume. INCOMPLETE APPLICATIONS WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED

LOCATION: The immediate staffing need is for an Engineer I in San Clemente, CA. However, for this position alternate living locations in Southern California may be considered.

SALARY RANGE $54,200 - $81,300 is within the established UNAVCO salary structure and will be based on candidate’s qualifications.

BENEFITS:  UNAVCO offers very competitive benefits including Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Disability, Supplemental Benefits, 4 weeks Paid Time Off (PTO), and a retirement plan with a 10% employer contribution.

WHERE YOU WILL WORK:

UNAVCO maintains and operates the Geodetic Facility for the Advancement of Geoscience (GAGE) which provides support to the NSF investigator community for geodesy, Earth Sciences research, education and workforce development with broad societal benefits. As part of GAGE, UNAVCO operates a large network of geodetic instruments (primarily GNSS) and a world class data facility and archive which provides cyber infrastructure to support the full data life cycle and interoperability with national and international Earth science Data Centers.

For over three decades, UNAVCO has spearheaded the utilization of cutting-edge technologies in support of geodesy while providing robust operational support for researchers exploring the solid Earth (earthquakes, volcanoes, plate tectonics), the hydrosphere (deformation of ice, the Earth's response to groundwater, sea level change), and the atmosphere. Our instrumentation toolbox includes high-precision GPS, LiDAR, TLS, optical imagery, InSAR, and more.

The Engineer I position is an excellent opportunity for someone interested in the geosciences and fieldwork to work on a myriad of interesting tasks as part of the Network of the Americas (NOTA) Southwest Region team. The work environment is fast-paced, dynamic, enriching, and fun.

WHAT YOU WILL DO:

With direct supervision from the regional manager, senior engineers and regional team the Engineer I will support the operation and maintenance of GNSS, borehole strainmeter and seismic instruments, or other geophysical sensors, in the NOTA network. This includes but is not limited to the following tasks:

• Ensure that network performance metrics are met, and troubleshoot problems with GNSS equipment, DC power systems and telemetry equipment.
• Implement assigned geophysical projects which may include logistics, site reconnaissance, permitting, equipment installation, as well as testing of equipment and dataflow activities.
• Drafts appropriate documentation of field activities and metadata using established tools, protocols, and databases maintained by the organization.
• Track and maintain equipment, inventory and returns and assist in maintaining the vehicle fleet and warehouse operations.
• Act as an ambassador for UNAVCO and be responsible for developing and maintaining professional relationships with onsite contacts, ranch managers, and government personnel as well as outside agencies and research institutes.

SUPERVISION AND LEADERSHIP:

Has frequent communication with, and direct supervision by, Project Manager for instruction and guidance. Work is reviewed for accuracy and overall quality. Works with and supports other UNAVCO staff while working on projects. Does not have supervisory responsibility.

APPLICANT NOTE:

We are unable to provide sponsorship for work authorization within the United States.

UNAVCO is an equal opportunity/equal access/affirmative action employer. Our long-term success depends on the development of a forward-looking, diversified workforce. UNAVCO values diverse perspectives and backgrounds in all positions within the organization and is fully committed to achieving a diverse workforce and complies with all Federal and State laws, and regulations regarding nondiscrimination and affirmative action. UNAVCO encourages applications from candidates who are members of historically underrepresented groups. This includes candidates from different socioeconomic backgrounds, candidates with disabilities, candidates with unique life experiences, etc. Women, Veterans, Individuals with Disabilities and members of the BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ communities are encouraged to apply. All qualified and complete applications will be considered. Individuals with a disability needing an accommodation as part of the employment selection process should contact HR@unavco.org or 303-381-7515.

UNAVCO supports a safe work environment for all staff. As part of our commitment, UNAVCO conducts background checks. Background checks will vary and are based on position requirements. Background checks may include but are not limited to, criminal history, sex offender registry, motor vehicle history, financial history and/or education verification. Background checks may also be conducted when required by law or when in the discretion of UNAVCO is reasonable and prudent to do so. UNAVCO complies with the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA).

Required Skills

APPLICABLE SKILLS / CORE COMPETENCIES

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability for the position.

REQUIRED

• Ability to gain, and retain knowledge of commonly-used concepts, practices and procedure for geophysical sensors such as high precision GNSS technology, borehole strainmeters, or related instruments.
• Ability to take initiative to learn assigned technical/engineering skills within established training time frames to ensure the needs of the project, science community, sponsors and co-workers are met.
• Proficiency in the safe operation of hand and power tools (i.e. cordless drill, chop saw, grinder, etc).
• Effective oral and written communication skills in English.
• Ability to work under direct supervision both independently and in a team environment to accomplish project goals.
• Ability to assess one's interactions and actions to determine responsibility of activities and incidents, and ensure personal accountability for the successful completion of projects.
• Ability to apply logic and reasoning to identify problems and participate in decision making.
• Ability to travel frequently (~2 weeks/month overnight travel) throughout the southwest US and Mexico in support of network operations
• A valid driver’s license is required.
• Must be able to comply with Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (49 CFR 391.41-391-.49).

PREFERRED

• Proficient knowledge of operating high clearance 4x4 vehicles in technical terrain.
• Experience working around helicopters, light aircraft and maritime vessels.
• Experience with shell scripting, programming, GIS and data analysis.
• Working knowledge of DC power/solar system wiring and troubleshooting techniques.
• Working knowledge of telemetry system designs and troubleshooting techniques.
• Fluency in Spanish.

Required Experience

WHAT YOU NEED:

Bachelor’s degree in engineering, geosciences, or related field at time of hire.

REASONABLE ACCOMMODATIONS MAY BE MADE TO ENABLE INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES TO PERFORM THE ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to sit and/or stand to work at a computer for extended periods of time.

• Ability to move about a typical office and warehouse environment on a daily basis.

• Regular and on-time attendance; hours may exceed 40 hours per week.

• Occasional travel by conventional means including aircraft, motor vehicle and the like.

• Ability to climb, kneel, balance, and crouch in field settings

• Ability to lift, carry, or move up to 75 pounds for distances up to ¼ mile, up elevation and over challenging terr

• Frequent travel in remote environments (nationally and internationally) by motor vehicle, off-road vehicle, helicopter, or fixed wing aircraft.

• Field work conditions may involve extreme cold, extreme heat, humidity, noise, hazards, and vibration.

• Requires periodic training in CPR/wilderness first aid, tower climbing, bear safety and firearms training (rifle/handgun), off-road driving, aviation (helicopter/fixed wing) safet

MENTAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to understand routine problems and to collaborate and explore alternative solutions.
• Ability to organize and prioritize work schedules for self and in coordination with others.
• Ability to compute, analyze and interpret data.
• Ability to make decisions which have limited impact on the function and UNAVCO.
• Ability to engage in safety training under challenging field conditions.

APPLICABLE SKILLS / CORE COMPETENCIES

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability for the position.

REQUIRED

• Ability to gain, and retain knowledge of commonly-used concepts, practices and procedure for geophysical sensors such as high precision GNSS technology, borehole strainmeters, or related instruments.
• Ability to take initiative to learn assigned technical/engineering skills within established training time frames to ensure the needs of the project, science community, sponsors and co-workers are met.
• Proficiency in the safe operation of hand and power tools (i.e. cordless drill, chop saw, grinder, etc).
• Effective oral and written communication skills in English.
• Ability to work under direct supervision both independently and in a team environment to accomplish project goals.
• Ability to assess one's interactions and actions to determine responsibility of activities and incidents, and ensure personal accountability for the successful completion of projects.
• Ability to apply logic and reasoning to identify problems and participate in decision making.
• Ability to travel frequently (~2 weeks/month overnight travel) throughout the southwest US and Mexico in support of network operations
• A valid driver’s license is required.
• Must be able to comply with Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (49 CFR 391.41-391-.49).

PREFERRED

• Proficient knowledge of operating high clearance 4x4 vehicles in technical terrain.
• Experience working around helicopters, light aircraft and maritime vessels.
• Experience with shell scripting, programming, GIS and data analysis.
• Working knowledge of DC power/solar system wiring and troubleshooting techniques.
• Working knowledge of telemetry system designs and troubleshooting techniques.
• Fluency in Spanish.