SODCO Chemistry Technician

Job Title

SODCO Chemistry Technician

Agency

Texas A&M University

Department

International Ocean Discovery Program

Proposed Minimum Salary

Commensurate

Job Location

College Station, Texas

Job Type

Staff

Job Description

Our Commitment

Texas A&M University is committed to enriching the learning and working environment by promoting a culture that respects all perspectives, talents & lived experiences. Embracing varying opinions and perspectives strengthens our core values which are: Respect, Excellence, Leadership, Loyalty, Integrity, and Selfless Service.

Who We Are

Scientific Ocean Drilling (SOD) is committed to advancing our understanding of Earth’s history by exploring the sediments and rocks beneath the ocean floor. For decades, SOD supported groundbreaking research through global seagoing expeditions aboard the scientific drillship JOIDES Resolution (JR), operated on behalf of the National Science Foundation (NSF). These missions yielded invaluable core samples that have deepened our knowledge of Earth’s climate, geology, and biosphere.

Following the recent demobilization of the JR, Texas A&M University has been entrusted by the NSF to establish the Gulf Coast Repository (GCR), a state-of-the-art facility that incorporates advanced instrumentation from the JR. With the recent award of the Scientific Ocean Drilling Coordination Office (SODCO), SOD is now poised to lead the coordination and management of future drilling activities.

Our mission is to support the scientific community by facilitating the collection of subseafloor samples, conducting in-situ measurements, and installing long-term borehole observatories, all to drive discovery and innovation in Earth science.

   

What We Want

We’re seeking a highly organized and detail-oriented professional to join our team as a SODCO Chemistry Technician. This critical role supports the maintenance, oversight, and mobilization of chemistry and microbiology instrumentation for Mission Specific Platforms (MSPs). Responsibilities include preparing laboratory containers and analytical equipment for seagoing cruises, managing inventory and supplies, assisting with mobilization and demobilization efforts, and sailing as a Chemistry Marine Technician to operate instruments at sea.

The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with geologic lab instrumentation, including geochemistry, microbiology, microscopy, and core physical property measurements. A background in geological sciences or oceanography, along with experience in logistics, equipment design and installation, and shipboard laboratory work, is preferred.

A bachelor’s degree in earth science, chemistry, or a related field is required, along with a minimum of four years of relevant experience. Candidates with a Master’s degree require two years of experience; those with a PhD meet the experience requirement. If you're ready to contribute to groundbreaking scientific exploration and help uncover Earth’s secrets, we encourage you to apply.

What You Need To Know

Compensation will be commensurate to the selected hire’s experience.

A cover letter and resume are strongly recommended.

Qualifications

Required Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Earth Science, Chemistry, or relevant field.

• Four years of relevant professional experience in working with chemical analytical equipment. An advanced degree will reduce experience requirements: two years of relevant professional experience with a Master’s degree or the completion of a PhD.

Required Licenses and Certifications

• Obtain and hold a passport and appropriate travel visas on a continuing basis.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Excellent communication (oral and written) and interpersonal skills.

• Ability to work independently, multitask, and to lead a team.

• Must be able to work cooperatively and communicate effectively, demonstrating excellent teamwork, leadership, and displaying a service-oriented attitude in all interactions.

• Ensures strong team approach to service deliverables through routine team building, training, and interactions.

Preferred Qualifications