Job Description

Description of Work
The National Drought Mitigation Center within the School of Natural Resources helps people, organizations and institutions build resilience to drought through monitoring and planning, and we are the academic partner and web host of the U.S. Drought Monitor. Our capabilities include climatology, social science and public engagement, and we work at all scales, from individual ranches to local, state and tribal government, and countries around the world.

As the Drought Social Science Associate, you will:
Support NDMC faculty and staff on work related to social vulnerability and adaptation to drought, and other activities as needed.
Apply qualitative and quantitative social science skills in conducting research and public engagement activities related to drought management.

At the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, we are committed to advancing knowledge, enriching lives, and contributing to the global community.
We invest in our employees through comprehensive benefits including:
Tuition remission for full-time employees and dependents
Retirement plans with university match
Vacation, sick, and holiday pay
Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
A diverse and inclusive workplace
We are looking for talented individuals like you to join our team and make a difference!

This is a two-year grant funded position. Continued employment is contingent upon grant funding availability. Within the UNL system, this position is categorized as a Research Technologist I.

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln seeks to attract and retain a high performing and diverse workforce in which employees’ differences are respected and valued to better meet the varying needs of the diverse populations we serve. The university fosters a diverse and inclusive work environment that promotes collaboration so that all individuals are able to participate and contribute to their full potential. As an EO/AA employer, qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, national origin, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, and/or political affiliation. See: http://www.unl.edu/equity/notice-nondiscrimination.
Minimum Required Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in social science or human dimension-related field plus two years’ related technical/management experience in a research setting OR Master’s degree in relevant field with no additional experience.
Knowledge of qualitative and quantitative social science methods (e.g., literature synthesis, interviewing, focus group facilitation, survey administration, basic statistical analysis).
Ability to manage data, organize concepts, and communicate (in written and oral formats) with both general and scientific audiences.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Basic computer skills.
Preferred Qualifications
Master’s degree social science or human dimension-related field.
Working knowledge of climate-related aspects of agricultural, natural resources, or community issues.
Experience working on drought-related topics.
Experience using statistical software (such as R or STATA) and/or qualitative data analysis software such as NVIVO.