Faculty Research Assistant: Data and Outreach Coordinator - Oregon Staffing : Job Details

The Department of Biological & Ecological Engineering invites applications for a full-time (1.00 FTE), 12-month, fixed-term Faculty Research Assistant position. Reappointment is at the discretion of the Department Head. Biological & Ecological Engineering at Oregon State University seeks a Faculty Research Assistant to join the AgWaterTAP team focused on outreach, data visualization, and communication.

This position will design and manage interactive dashboards that present irrigation, climate, economic, social, and crop data to diverse audiences, including farmers, agencies, educators, students, and researchers. The role includes building data pipelines, ensuring quality control, and structuring datasets for reuse. The candidate will work closely with faculty, Extension staff, and agency partners to translate scientific results into practical guidance and learning materials. Responsibilities include drafting fact sheets, presentations, and web content, and supporting stakeholder events like field days and webinars. Based in Corvallis, this position will contribute to program evaluation, reporting, and proposal support to help expand AgWaterTAP's reach.

A Data Outreach & Engagement Specialist is needed to design interactive dashboards, organize complex datasets, manage QA/QC processes, and create educational materials. The role will connect data workflows to stakeholder needs, support events, and help ensure tools are accessible to all usersfrom farmers to policy-makers to students.

This position is full-time for 12 months, with possible renewal based on results, program development, and future funding.

Oregon State University is a dynamic community of dreamers, doers, problem-solvers and change-makers. We don't wait for challenges to present themselves we seek them out and take them on. We welcome students, faculty and staff from every background and perspective into a community where everyone feels seen and heard. We have deep-rooted mindfulness for the natural world and all who depend on it, and together, we apply knowledge, tools and skills to build a better future for all.

Key responsibilities include:

30% Data management and QA/QC: Collect, organize, clean, and document datasets. Ensure consistency across multiple projects and formats.

25% Outreach content creation: Develop factsheets, infographics, presentations, newsletters, and web content tailored to community and agency users.

25% Stakeholder engagement: Support outreach activities by preparing materials, coordinating feedback, and assisting with training sessions or tool demonstrations.

10% Event coordination: Help plan and organize workshops, field days, and school visits. Coordinate schedules, logistics, and materials.

10% Evaluation and reporting: Track outreach materials use, event participation, and stakeholder feedback. Support reporting to partners and funders.

What you will need: Bachelors degree in Agricultural Sciences, Environmental Science, Education, Communication, Data Science, or a related field. Experience building data visualizations or dashboards. Experience with spreadsheet and coding tools like Excel, R, Python, or SQL. Must be proficient in English (oral and written) for effective communication with board members, staff, partners, and the public. Experience managing datasets and supporting QA/QC processes. Ability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative team. Ability to foster and enhance diversity, equity, and inclusion in an educational environment.

This position requires driving a university vehicle or a personal vehicle on behalf of the university; therefore, the incumbent must successfully complete a motor vehicle history check, possess and maintain a current, valid drivers license in their state of residence, be determined to be position qualified and self-report convictions as per University Policy 05-030.

Position is based in Corvallis, with travel required for field visits, stakeholder engagement, and event participation. Events may occur in outdoor environments, requiring light lifting and extended standing or walking. The role includes a combination of computer-based work and in-person outreach activities. Occasional evening or weekend work may be needed.

Salary is commensurate with skills, education, and experience.