Visiting Scientific Specialist, Quantitative Hydrology - Illinois State Water Survey, PRI

Illinois State Water Survey

Job Summary

Aid in the research activities of the Illinois Water Inventory Program (IWIP). This includes collecting, managing, and disseminating water use data from public, commercial, industrial, and irrigation entities. This role operates under the supervision of the IWIP Coordinator.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Research – Fieldwork/Data Collection – 50% Assist in the gathering of annual statewide water use data, the preparation of annual questionnaires to nearly 3000 facilities in Illinois, entering water use data, verifying records and modifying the IWIP databases and assisting in producing an annual summary report. Gather irrigation pumping data from local farm bureaus and irrigators as well as develop improved data collection and dissemination procedures. These data will be incorporated into the IWIP database to further characterize water resource use throughout Illinois. Coordinate with other staff working on wellhead protection area delineations to emphasize certain communities for improved and/or in-depth data collection.
• Research – Data Analysis/Interpretation & GIS – 25% Analyze data to look at trends, historical differences, etc., for its research value, including the use of relevant data in other Survey databases and providing data services and interpretive results to a wide variety of clients including internal staff. Develop tools for automated interpretation and QA/QC of data archived in the IWIP database. Assist in constructing data visualization and exploration applications to assist in dissemination of IWIP data. Modernize database structure as appropriate for broader data sharing and use (e.g., coordinate with PRI Data Stewardship committee).
• Research – Publications – 10% Assist in preparing technical reports, progress reports, and final reports in accordance with sponsor guidelines or program goals. Assist in preparing and maintaining maps or datasets for publication in print and online. Review and assist in accurately reporting IWIP data, in both sponsored reports and online dashboards.
• Engagement and Outreach – 10% Present research results to stakeholders and sponsors at local meetings and events. Engage the public and IWIP data providers at meetings and events around the state. Frequent written and verbal contact with irrigators, water operators, and other water professionals across the state. Engage irrigators and agriculture sector representatives to discuss the benefits of data sharing. Present research results to IEPA representatives to explain value and necessity of IWIP data in completing and assessing wellhead protection area delineations.
• Other – 5% Perform other duties as needed in order to further the mission and goals of the Survey, PRI, and the University of Illinois. Keep abreast of developments in this discipline.

Physical Demands and Working Conditions

The work is sedentary and involves remaining in a stationary position for extended periods of time working at a computer, using a keyboard and mouse, and using repetitive hand motions.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's degree, preferably in Water Resources, Natural Resources, Environmental Resources, Physical Sciences, Geography, Data Management or related field. Alternate degree fields will be considered depending on the nature and depth of the experience as it relates to this position. Two years of experience in manipulating data, data analysis, and problem solving. Experience in water resources, GIS, and database management systems. Valid Driver's License.

Preferred Qualifications

Master’s Degree in Geography/GIS, Natural Resources or Environmental Science.

Knowledge, Skills And Abilities

• Experience with ArcGIS, MS Word, Excel, and Access (or similar business/office suite software). 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. An understanding of relational database structure and familiarity with groundwater and surface water data collection activities.

Appointment Information

This is a 100% full-time Academic Professional position, appointed on a 12-month basis. The expected start date is as soon as possible after 10/16/2026. Salary is commensurate with experience. The budgeted salary range for this position is $55,000 to $65,000. The salary is competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience, while also considering internal equity. It is not typical for an individual to be offered a salary at or near the top of the full range.

This position is eligible for sponsorship for work authorization, except for sponsorship of a new H1b petition that would incur the $100,000 fee.

Please note interviews may take place before the close of the job ad. No offers will be extended until after the close of the job advertisement.

Application Procedures & Deadline Information

Applications must be received by 6:00 pm (Central Time) on October 2nd 2026. Apply for this position using the Apply Now button at the top or bottom of this posting. Applications not submitted through https://jobs.illinois.edu will not be considered. For further information about this specific position, please contact Jon Freiman jcf@illinois.edu. For questions regarding the application process, please contact 217-333-2137.

At the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign — the state’s flagship public university and one of the world’s leading research institutions — every staff member helps shape what’s next. Founded in 1867, Illinois is home to a vibrant community of 59,000 students from all 50 states and 129 countries, supported by 15 colleges and instructional units, more than 20 research institutes, and one of the most comprehensive student service ecosystems in the nation. Whether you’re empowering first-generation students, fueling breakthrough innovation, or strengthening communities across Illinois and beyond, your work here has a far-reaching and deeply meaningful impact. The university offers a highly competitive benefits package designed to support your well-being, growth, and financial security. Join a top 10 public university that has launched over 330 startups and continues to redefine excellence — where the Illinois Value Proposition ensures that your contributions are recognized, your potential is nurtured, and your career can thrive.

Champaign-Urbana

Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be used in some portions of the candidate review process for this position; however, all employment decisions will be made by a person.

This position is intended to be eligible for benefits. This includes Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, a Retirement Plan, Paid time Off, and Tuition waivers for employees and dependents.

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. Accommodations may also be requested on the basis of pregnancy, childbirth, and related conditions, or religion. Requests may be submitted through the reasonable accommodation portal, or by contacting the Office for Access & Equity at 217-333-0885, option #1, or accessibility@illinois.edu.

Requisition ID: 1038275

Job Category: Research

Apply at: https://jobs.illinois.edu