Marine Debris Specialist

Job Posting Title:Marine Debris Specialist----Hiring Department:Marine Science Institute----Position Open To:All Applicants----Weekly Scheduled Hours:40----FLSA Status:Exempt from FLSA----Earliest Start Date:Jul 31, 2026----Position Duration:Expected to Continue Until Aug 01, 2027----Location:PORT ARANSAS, TX----Job Details:General NotesThe Mission-Aransas National Estuarine Research Reserve (MAR) at the University of Texas Marine Science Institute (MSI) seeks a qualified and motivated individual to research marine debris and its impacts under the MAR’s Stewardship and Education Sectors. THIS POSITION IS LOCATED AT THE UT MARINE SCIENCE INSTITUTE IN PORT ARANSAS, TEXAS. Position is expected to renew annually. Only individuals authorized to work in the United States will be considered .PurposeThe Marine Debris Specialist will play a critical role in identifying, managing, and removing marine debris from coastal and marine environments. This individual will work closely with local communities and MAR partners to enhance efforts aimed at reducing marine debris and promoting environmental stewardship. In addition to debris removal, the specialist will lead outreach and education activities to raise awareness about the impacts of marine debris on marine ecosystems and coastal communities.ResponsibilitiesConduct regular surveys and assessments of locations with high concentrations of marine debris and maintain a marine debris database at the MAR level and the national levelWork with local partners, volunteer organizations, and communities to maximize the effectiveness and efficiency of debris removal effortsDevelop and conduct community outreach and educational programming aimed at raising awareness about the environmental and economic impacts of marine debrisCoordinate, organize, and participate in regional debris removal efforts around the Texas Coastal BendAssist in organizing workshops, meetings, and educational events for local communities, schools, and stakeholders on best practices for marine debris prevention and management.Create educational materials, such as brochures, social media content, and presentations, to communicate the importance of marine conservation and pollution prevention.Represent the MAR at meetings, public forums, and working groups related to marine debris and environmental sustainability.Other duties as assignedRequired QualificationsBachelor’s degree in environmental science, marine biology, oceanography, or a related field.Strong knowledge of marine ecosystems, pollution issues, and marine debris sources.Excellent communication and public speaking skills, with the ability to engage various stakeholders and communities.Ability to work in outdoor environments, including remote and challenging locations.Proven experience in coordinating clean-up efforts, working with volunteers, and organizing community outreach programs.Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.Ability to work independently or as part of a team.Ability to perform manual labor, including lifting heavy objects and working in various weather conditionsComputer literacy in Microsoft Office.Texas driver’s license or ability to obtain one within 30 days of hire date.Preferred Qualifications2-4 years of experience in marine debris removal, environmental restoration, or coastal management.Experience in GIS mapping, data analysis, and field surveying techniques.Computer literacy in Microsoft Office required.Experience operating various sizes of boat.Salary Range$40,000Working ConditionsMay work in difficult weather conditions, such as high heat index and windy environments.Must be able to lift 30 pounds.Must be able to operate a vehicle in 2 and 4-wheel drive in sandy environments.Must be able to spend time standing and crouching while conducting marine debris surveys.Required MaterialsResume/CV3 work references with their contact information; at least one reference should be from a supervisorLetter of interestImportant for applicants who are NOT current university employees or contingent workers: You will be prompted to submit your resume the first time you apply, then you will be provided an option to upload a new Resume for subsequent applications. Any additional Required Materials (letter of interest, references, etc.) will be uploaded in the Application Questions section; you will be able to multi-select additional files. Before submitting your online job application, ensure that ALL Required Materials have been uploaded.  Once your job application has been submitted, you cannot make changes.Important for Current university employees and contingent workers: As a current university employee or contingent worker, you MUST apply within Workday by searching for Find UT Jobs. If you are a current University employee, log-in to Workday, navigate to your Worker Profile, click the Career link in the left hand navigation menu and then update the sections in your Professional Profile before you apply. This information will be pulled in to your application. The application is one page and you will be prompted to upload your resume. In addition, you must respond to the application questions presented to upload any additional Required Materials (letter of interest, references, etc.) that were noted above.----Employment Eligibility:Regular staff who have been employed in their current position for the last six continuous months are eligible for openings being recruited for through University-Wide or Open Recruiting, to include both promotional opportunities and lateral transfers. Staff who are promotion/transfer eligible may apply for positions without supervisor approval.----Retirement Plan Eligibility:The retirement plan for this position is Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS), subject to the position being at least 20 hours per week and at least 135 days in length.----Background Checks:A criminal history background check will be required for finalist(s) under consideration for this position.----E