Research Assistant - Oceanographic Data Analysis

Position Details

Position Information

Recruitment/Posting Title Research Assistant - Oceanographic Data Analysis Posting Number 26TM0234 Department Marine & Coastal Sciences Overview

Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, is a leading national research university and the State of New Jersey's preeminent, comprehensive public institution of higher education. As one of the largest employers in the State of New Jersey, Rutgers University is committed not only to the students and the State that we serve, but also to the faculty and staff who work on our campuses.

For two consecutive years, Rutgers is ranked on Forbes' list of America's Best Large Employers. Rutgers holds #64 of 500 employers and is the #1 New Jersey employer on the publication's 2023 list. Rutgers' commitment to its employees includes maintaining and fostering a safe, diverse, and respectful workplace environment, creating employment opportunities for our nation's military veterans, and ensuring accessibility and accommodation for individuals with disabilities.

Posting Summary

Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey is seeking a Research Assistant for the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences - Department of Marine & Coastal Sciences. This position will begin on July 1, 2026 and end on September 30, 2026.

Among the key duties of the position are the following:

• Analyzes acoustic imaging data from deployments of COVIS and other systems at Axial Seamount and estimate properties of hydrothermal discharge.
• Processes and interprets large oceanographic datasets using Python and MATLAB.
• Develops and applies workflows for acoustic and imaging data processing and analysis.
• Generates 3D visualizations to evaluate spatial and temporal patterns in hydrothermal plume activity.
• Performs data quality control, validation, organization, and management to ensure accuracy and usability of datasets.
• Assists with integration of observational data into analytical and modeling approaches.
• Supports development and application of computational methods, including machine learning techniques for pattern recognition and data interpretation.
• Collaborates with research team members on interpretation of findings and ongoing marine science research activities.
• Maintains accurate documentation of analytical methods, code, workflows, and research results.

FLSA Nonexempt Salary Details $18 - $20 per hour Offer Information

The final salary offer may be determined by several factors, including, but not limited to, the candidate's qualifications, experience, and expertise, and availability of department or grant funds to support the position. We also take into consideration market benchmarks, if and when appropriate, and internal equity to ensure fair compensation relative to the university's broader compensation structure. We are committed to offering competitive and flexible compensation packages to attract and retain top talent.

Benefits

Rutgers provides a comprehensive benefits package to eligible employees. The specific benefits vary based on the position and may include:

• Medical, prescription drug, and dental coverage
• Paid vacation, holidays, and various leave programs
• Competitive retirement benefits, including defined contribution plans and voluntary tax-deferred savings options
• Employee and dependent educational benefits (when applicable)
• Life insurance coverage
• Employee discount programs

Position Status Full Time Working Hours 35 - 40 hours per week Daily Work Shift Day Work Arrangement

This position requires a fully on-site work arrangement.

Payroll Designation PeopleSoft Terms of Appointment Temporary Staff Appointment - Hourly

Qualifications

Minimum Education and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or a closely related field, or an equivalent combination of education and/or experience.

Certifications/Licenses Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Experience with acoustic or sonar data analysis in an ocean or environmental context.
• Knowledge of time series analysis methods applied to oceanographic, atmospheric, or environmental data.
• Ability to work with large datasets and maintain organized records.
• Strong attention to detail, particularly in identifying and classifying marine organisms.

Preferred Qualifications Equipment Utilized

• Familiarity with Python and experience working in notebook environments (e.g., Jupyter).

Physical Demands and Work Environment Special Conditions

Posting Details

Posting Open Date 06/01/2026 Posting Close Date 06/12/2026 Open Until Filled No Special Instructions to Applicants Regional Campus Rutgers University-New Brunswick Home Location Campus Cook (RU-New Brunswick) City New Brunswick State NJ Location Details

Pre-employment Screenings

All offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of all pre-employment screenings.

Immunization Requirements

Under Policy 100.3.1 Immunization Policy for Covered Individuals, if employment will commence during Flu Season, Rutgers University may require certain prospective employees to provide proof that they are vaccinated against Seasonal Influenza for the current Flu Season, unless the University has granted the individual a medical or religious exemption. Additional infection control and safety policies may apply. Prospective employees should speak with their hiring manager to determine which policies apply to the role or position for which they are applying. Failure to provide proof of vaccination for any required vaccines or obtain a medical or religious exemption from the University will result in rescission of a candidate's offer of employment or disciplinary action up to and including termination.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

It is university policy to provide equal employment opportunity to all its employees and applicants for employment regardless of their race, creed, color, national origin, age, ancestry, nationality, marital or domestic partnership or civil union status, sex, pregnancy, gender identity or expression, disability status, liability for military service, protected veteran status, affectional or sexual orientation, atypical cellular or blood trait, genetic information (including the refusal to submit to genetic testing), or any other category protected by law. As an institution, we encourage all qualified applicants to apply. For additional information please see the Non-Discrimination Statement at the following web address: http://uhr.rutgers.edu/non-discrimination-statement

Posting Specific Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).

• • Do you have a bachelor's degree in Computer Science or a closely related field, or an equivalent combination of education and/or experience?

• Yes

• No

• • By the start date of this position, will you possess valid authorization to work in the US for the duration of the appointment?

• Yes

• No

Applicant Documents

Required Documents

• Resume/CV
• Transcript (Unofficial)

Optional Documents

• Cover Letter/Letter of Application