Research Technician II - Duke Marine Robotics

Duke University:

Duke University was created in 1924 through an indenture of trust by James Buchanan Duke. Today, Duke is regarded as one of America’s leading research universities. Located in Durham, North Carolina, Duke is positioned in the heart of the Research Triangle, which is ranked annually as one of the best places in the country to work and live. Duke has more than 15,000 students who study and conduct research in its 10 undergraduate, graduate and professional schools. With about 40,000 employees, Duke is the third largest private employer in North Carolina, and it now has international programs in more than 150 countries.

Be You. Be Bold. Choose Duke. 

Be You. 

At Duke, we celebrate individuality and the diverse perspectives that drive discovery and impact. As a Research Technician II, you’ll join Duke’s Marine Robotics and Remote Sensing (MaRRS) Lab, contributing your curiosity, technical skills, and passion for environmental science to research and conservation efforts that span marine and terrestrial ecosystems. You’ll work alongside faculty, students, and collaborators in a highly interdisciplinary environment where learning, innovation, and teamwork are central to everything we do. 

Be Bold. 

This role offers hands-on opportunities to work with cutting-edge unmanned aerial systems (UAS), advanced sensors, and powerful analytical tools. You’ll play an active role in collecting, analyzing, and communicating geospatial data while supporting research, training, and instruction at Duke University’s main campus in Durham, North Carolina. 

What You’ll Do 

• Support UAS-based data collection projects and hands-on training activities using the lab’s diverse platforms and sensors. 

• Conduct and support analysis of remote sensing and geospatial data collected via UAS and related technologies. 

• Assist with course-based UAS curriculum delivery, operational planning, and instructional support. 

• Supervise laboratory sessions and analytical workshops for undergraduate and graduate students. 

• Document technical protocols, maintain laboratory and field equipment, and assist with fieldwork logistics.

What You’ll Bring 

• Bachelor’s degree in environmental science or a closely related field. 

• Experience collecting, processing, and working with geospatial or remote sensing data, particularly in UAS-based environments. 

• Familiarity with tools such as ArcGIS, ArcGIS Pro or Online, Python, Pix4D, or similar platforms. 

• Experience or interest in science communication, outreach, or instructional support. 

• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a collaborative research setting. 

• One to two years of relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Choose Duke. 

Duke University is a community built on collaboration, innovation, creativity, and belonging. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunity and fostering an environment where all voices are heard, valued, and respected. 

Ready to Make a Difference? 

Apply now and help advance research, education, and environmental stewardship at Duke University. 

Anticipated Pay Range: Duke University provides an annual base salary range for this position as USD $19.06 to USD $28.85. Duke University considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position; candidate's work experience, education/training, and key skills; internal peer equity; as well as market and organizational considerations when extending an offer.

Your total compensation goes beyond the dollars on your paycheck. Duke provides comprehensive and competitive medical and dental care programs, generous retirement benefits, and a wide array of family-friendly and cultural programs to eligible team members. Learn more at: https://hr.duke.edu/benefits/

Equal Opportunity Employer: Duke is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to providing employment opportunity without regard to an individual's age, color, disability, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy and pregnancy- related conditions), sexual orientation, or military status.

Duke aspires to create a community built on collaboration, innovation, creativity, and belonging. Our collective success depends on the robust exchange of ideas—an exchange that is best when the rich diversity of our perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences flourishes. To achieve this exchange, it is essential that all members of the community feel secure and welcome, that the contributions of all individuals are respected, and that all voices are heard. All members of our community have a responsibility to uphold these values.

Essential Physical Job Functions:

Certain jobs at Duke University and Duke University Health System may include essential job functions that require specific physical and/or mental abilities. Additional information and reasonable accommodation(s) can be requested with Duke Access and Accommodations Services (email: DAAS@duke.edu; phone: 919-668-1267).