Research Scientist/Engineer 2 (Temp)

Job Description

RESEARCH SCIENTIST/ENGINEER 2 (TEMP)

Req #: 245121 Department: COLLEGE OF THE ENVIRONMENT Appointing Department Web Address: https://cicoes.uw.edu/ Job Location: Seattle - Other Posting Date: 04/11/2025 Closing Info: Closes On 04/25/2025 Salary: $6,000 - $7,018 per month Other Compensation: Shift: First Shift Benefits: As a UW employee, you will enjoy generous benefits and work/life programs. For a complete description of our benefits for this position, please visit our website, click here. As a UW employee, you have a unique opportunity to change lives on our campuses, in our state and around the world. UW employees offer their boundless energy, creative problem-solving skills, and dedication to build stronger minds and a healthier world.
UW faculty and staff also enjoy outstanding benefits, professional growth opportunities and unique resources in an environment noted for diversity, intellectual excitement, artistic pursuits, and natural beauty.
We are seeking a scientist (temporary) to assist with the completion of the NWFSC contribution to the NMFS Passive Acoustics Strategic Initiative, “Accessing Ocean Sounds to Inform Marine Species and Climate Trends.” The main focus of the work is to support the development of 1.) National passive acoustic data and analysis integration and 2.) Infrastructure development and efficiency improvements for the Marine Mammal Ecology’s passive acoustic data. The project aims to expand the applications of passive acoustics to understand long-term trends of a.) marine ecosystems, including monitoring of ocean soundscapes and contributions of anthropogenic noise, and b.) protected marine mammal species, including killer whales, humpback whales, and other cetaceans species of the Pacific northwest. Additionally, the project aims to improve the NWFSC passive acoustic data storage and archiving, and create data products that are easy to interpret and can be used to inform conservation and management decisions within the West Coast Region and across the U.S.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
55%

Prepare passive acoustic data for processing and analysis including:
o Conduct data quality assessment and control (QAQC) utilizing analytical tools for preparing data and associated metadata.
o Utilize larger data storage and processing options such as Cloud systems being developed by the project.
o Identify areas of improvement for more efficient data processing.

Analyze passive acoustics data according to the research objectives and hypotheses of the project.

Interpret research results and collaborate with other NMFS scientists to integrate research findings within a broader national strategy.

Assist in preparation of reports, papers and presentations in publishable form and for technical meetings.

Transfer data and data products for archiving according to procedures being developed by the project.
40%

Organize passive acoustic data and associated metadata and analysis products/results.

Work with project lead to implement improvements in approaches and methodological tools for processing, analyzing, and archiving passive acoustic data.
5%

Set up passive acoustic instruments, offload, backup, and organize incoming passive acoustic data and other tasks for the passive acoustics project as needed.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

Bachelor’s degree in Biology or related fields and two years of relevant experience
Equivalent education/experience will substitute for all minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license/certification/registration.
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

Familiarity and experience with typical approaches to collect, analyze and curate passive acoustics data.

Strong organizational skills demonstrated through previous experience.

Ability to follow directions with excellent attention to detail when conducting tedious tasks.

Ability to work under deadlines.

Proficiency in R software to follow written protocols.
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS

Proficiency in Raven, Triton (Matlab based) or other sound analysis software packages.

Ability to work independently as well as effectively with a team.

Previous experience analyzing passive acoustics data for soundscape analysis (e.g. MANTA or PyPAM) or willingness to become familiar using these software packages to assist with creating soundscape analysis products.
Application Process: The application process may include completion of a variety of online assessments to obtain additional information that will be used in the evaluation process. These assessments may include Work Authorization, Cover Letter and/or others. Any assessments that you need to complete will appear on your screen as soon as you select “Apply to this position”. Once you begin an assessment, it must be completed at that time; if you do not complete the assessment, you will be prompted to do so the next time you access your “My Jobs” page. If you select to take it later, it will appear on your "My Jobs" page to take when you are access ready. Please note that your application will not be reviewed, and you will not be considered for this position until all required assessments have been completed.

Committed to attracting and retaining a diverse staff, the University of Washington will honor your experiences, perspectives and unique identity. Together, our community strives to create and maintain working and learning environments that are inclusive, equitable and welcoming.

The University of Washington is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information.

To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact the Disability Services Office at 206-543-6450 or [email protected] .

Applicants considered for this position will be required to disclose if they are the subject of any substantiated findings or current investigations related to sexual misconduct at their current employment and past employment. Disclosure is required under Washington state law .

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