Software/Informatics/Sensor Network Specialist:
Flathead Lake Biological Station of
The University of Montana and the Yellowstone Ecological Research
Center (YERC) invite
applications for a Software/Informatics/Sensor Network Specialist to
work as part of a team to
define sensors, communications, power requirements, Internet
requirements, and storage
requirements for distributed sensor networks. Interfacing with
project investigators and
architecting solutions that integrate well with the overall EPSCoR
Track II project will be important.
The person filling this position will need a high degree of
initiative and independence while
installing, improving, and maintaining distributed sensor networks
and individual sensor nodes in
the field. This is a highly specialized position that will require
complex and integrated tasks.
Individual must have excellent communication skills and the ability
to work directly with a broad
range of other researchers, from project directors to summer field
assistants to graduate students.
We seek candidates with the following knowledge, skills and abilities:
An MS in science, engineering, or computer science or MS-equivalent
(BS with three years
experience), or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Because communications in the network may involve serial, RF, Wi-Fi,
TCP/IP bridging, and
firewalls, the candidate should be familiar with many of these
protocols. Since the sensor
networks will typically be in remote locations, an understanding of
power requirements, solar
panels, and batteries is needed. The candidate must be able to
analyze specifications, procure
components, assemble and debug them in a lab environment, and then
install them in the field.
The individual must be able to monitor, troubleshoot, retrofit, and
maintain deployed systems.
Must be able to identify vendors, research sensors, analyze their
specifications, and define best
sensor application practices for water metrics and climate research.
Must be able to scope a network solution for the backhaul of a
complex distributed sensor network
taking into consideration many types of communication protocols
including urban, exurban and
wilderness settings.
Must be familiar with mapping or GIS as a way to lay out systems
geographically.
Must have experience in hands-on projects dealing with sensors,
radios, and equipment in the
field and have a strong sense of system-equipment ownership in a
project. Reliable and stable
power solutions will be very important.
Must have extensive working knowledge of standard computer
applications (e.g., Word, Excel,
Powerpoint, Access, etc.) and the ability to recommend and learn new
software as needed for the
project.
Physical Demands:
-Must be able to hike for miles through brush, forest, gravel bars, etc.
-Must be able to ford rivers/streams with strong water currents
-Must be able to carry/lift equipment for miles
-Must be able to work outside in all weather conditions for long hours
-Must be able to row and maneuver rafts with sensitive and expensive
scientific equipment
-Must be able to sit and work at the computer for long hours with
great attention to detail
-Must have demonstrated experience with successful and safe operation
and maintenance of
boats
-Must have demonstrated ability to perform physical labor and lift up to 60 lbs
The successful applicant will be employed by The University of
Montana on a 12-month letter of
appointment, including medical/dental and retirement benefits. Salary
range is $45,000-$48,000 per
year commensurate with qualifications and experience. The position is
based at the Yellowstone
Ecological Research Center in Bozeman, Montana; travel will be
required to the Flathead Lake
Biological Station and field sites. Appointment is for one year with
the possibility of reappointment
in accordance with applicable personnel policies and availability of funding.
Applicants should e-mail a letter of application and vita/resume
(including employment history and
three professional references) to the attention of Dr. Robert
Crabtree at [email protected].
Review of applications will begin by April 5, 2010 and will continue
until the position is filled. Letter of
application must clearly indicate how you meet the criteria for this position.
See http://www.umt.edu/hrs/selfidNEW.html (to complete Self
Identification Form) and
http://www.umt.edu/president/EEO/documents/pres_non_discrim_policy.pdf
Notices & Disclaimers
Criminal Background Investigation is required prior to Offer of Employment
In accordance with University policy, finalists for this position
will be subject to criminal
background investigations.
ADA/EOE/AA/Veteran's Preference
Qualified candidates must be able to meet minimum requirements and
perform the primary
functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodation. As an Equal
opportunity/Affirmative Action employer, we encourage applications
from minorities, Vietnam era
veterans, and women. This material is available in an alternative
format upon request. Qualified
candidates may request veterans' preference in accordance with state law.
References
*References in addition to those listed on the application may be
contacted without applicant's
prior approval.
Testing
Individual hiring departments at UM-M may elect to administer
pre-employment tests, which are
relevant to essential job functions.
