Engineer, IIHR
The Engineer, IIHR will contribute to the research mission of IIHR—Hydroscience and Engineering and the Iowa Flood Center by collaborating with faculty and research staff to manage project tasks and deadlines to meet stakeholder expectations and project deliverables. Communicate project updates to internal and external stakeholders and perform other duties as needs arise. Assist in planning and designing the construction, modification, fabrication, and installation and document/perform maintenance procedures of electrical, electronic, mechanical, or civil engineering devices, structures, systems and/or research projects of moderate complexity. Oversee, troubleshoot, manage, and document field monitoring activities related to the Iowa Flood Center and IIHR. May be involved in developing project proposals, budgets, and schedules for external clients and stakeholders.
The College of Engineering and IIHR intend to hire a Design Engineer (Req #26002134) or Engineer (Req #26002137) based on the qualifications of the successful candidate.
This position is not eligible for University sponsorship for employment authorization.
Specific Job Duties and Tasks:
- Compile and analyze information required to perform engineering assignments. Prepare progress reports and engineering specifications.
- Develop technical procedures and associated documentation. Troubleshoot and solve problems that may arise in equipment maintenance.
- Participate in the preparation of engineering specifications. Complete engineering assignments, typically short term, in accordance with design specifications and standards.
- Manage construction, installation, and design changes of experimental equipment such as rain gauge systems, stream gauge systems. Identify and adhere to Quality Assurance practices to maintain validity and integrity of research data.
- Complete work that meets all relevant specifications and regulations. Verify that completed work meets customer expectations and industry standards.
- Examine data collected from field instrumentation to ensure proper operation and follow-up as needed.
- Assist with planning and developing project scope, budget, and schedule as needs arise. Prioritize concurrent project work to ensure expectations are met and deadlines are maintained.
- Understand and may apply engineering principles and the scientific method to solve technical issues as assigned.
- Test and maintain sensor equipment, troubleshoot and resolve complex equipment failures including sensors, modems, power supplies, data loggers, and other infrastructure. Identify and make recommendations to resolve singular or recurring failures point in systems.
- Communicate engineering concepts to faculty, staff and students. Communicate with internal project team members to assure reliable project coordination.
- Provide direction, assignments, feedback, coaching and counseling to assure outcomes are achieved.
- Provide information to estimate project costs. Initiate purchasing requests for supplies and equipment.
To obtain the full job description including key areas of responsibility, technical competencies, and desirable qualifications, please contact Alex-Schutman@uiowa.edu
About the College of Engineering
The College of Engineering at the University of Iowa is driven by talented faculty, staff, and students who are dedicated to producing knowledge that addresses grand challenges in advanced technologies, health sciences, sustainability, energy, and the environment. We pride ourselves on producing ethical, globally aware engineers whose work makes the world safer and more efficient. As a center of innovation and discovery, the College of Engineering is committed to improving the quality of life for our Iowa community, as well as for people across the United States and around the world.
We uphold the values of respect, community, and collaboration in all our endeavors, fostering a welcoming and respectful environment where members are valued and supported. Joining our team means becoming part of a supportive environment that values work-life balance and personal well-being. The University of Iowa offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health and wellness resources, dual career support, and opportunities for professional development. Learn more about working at the University of Iowa: Build A Career/Build a Life.
Education Required:
A Bachelor of Science degree in Civil, Mechanical or Electrical Engineering.
Required Qualifications:
- A Minimum of 6 months of engineering experience.
- A background in multiple technical trades including fabrication, mechanics, hydraulics, electronics, and construction.
- Strong communications skills: effective oral and written communication of scientific concepts (both technical and non-technical) and the demonstrated ability to work with others in a research environment.
- The ability to travel statewide on a regular basis, involvement in occasional overnight fieldwork over periods of varying duration, and the ability to work in harsh field conditions or inclement weather and at heights of up to 40 feet.
- A valid driver’s license and continued compliance with the standards of the University Driving Policy (University of Iowa Operations Manual Part V, Chapter 19).
- Ability to occasionally move 100 lbs.
Desired Qualifications:
- Proficient in CAD or programming languages such as C and Python.
- Registration as a Professional Engineer in Iowa.
- Project management experience.
- Strong technical writing ability.
- A minimum of 1 year of experience related to the duties of this job description.
Application Details
In order to be considered for an interview, applicants must upload:
- Resume
- Cover Letter
Job openings are posted for a minimum of 14 calendar days. This job may be removed from posting and filled any time after the minimum posting period has ended. Successful candidates will be required to self-disclose any conviction history and will be subject to a criminal background check and credential/education verification. 5 professional references will be requested at a later step in the recruitment process.
For questions, contact Alex Schutman at Alex-Schutman@uiowa.edu
Benefits Highlights
- Regular salaried position. Pay level 3B. Located in Iowa City, Iowa.
- Fringe benefit package including paid vacation; sick leave; health, dental, life and disability insurance options; and generous employer contributions into retirement plans.
- For more information about Why Iowa? Click here.
About Iowa
Joining the University of Iowa means becoming a vital part of the Hawkeye community, where your work directly impacts education, research, and student success. Enjoy exceptional health coverage, university-paid life insurance, robust retirement plans, and generous leave policies. Benefit from 24/7 support services, well-being resources, and access to UI Health Care specialists. Grow professionally with advanced training, leadership development, and tuition assistance. Iowa City offers a great quality of life with world-class performances at Hancher Auditorium, Big Ten athletics, top-ranked public schools, and outdoor recreation. Join us in making a difference at a leading Big Ten university and premier public research institution.
Equal opportunity employer
The University of Iowa is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment free from discrimination on the basis of race, creed, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, pregnancy (including childbirth and related conditions), disability, genetic information, status as a U.S. veteran, service in the U.S. military, sexual orientation, or associational preferences.
Persons with disabilities who need assistance or accommodations with the application or interview process may contact University Human Resources/Faculty and Staff Disability Services, (319) 335-2660 or fsds@uiowa.edu. For jobs in UI Health care, please contact UI Health care Leave & Disability Administration at 319-356-7543.
