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Job Title

Sink Your Shucks™ Program Assistant

Agency

Texas A&M University - Corpus Christi

Department

Harte Research Institute

Proposed Minimum Salary

Commensurate

Job Location

Corpus Christi, Texas

Job Type

Staff

Job Description

TAMU-CC is a dynamic university designated as both a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) and Minority-Serving Institution (MSI) with approximately 11,000 students from 47 states and 54 foreign nations. We employ over 1,400 full-time and 2,000 part-time Islanders (including students/GAs). The University attracts highly talented faculty and staff and offers an array of undergraduate and graduate degrees, including doctoral programs. As a member of the Texas A&M University System, TAMU-CC benefits from a range of resources, increased visibility and influence, and opportunities to collaborate in mutually beneficial ways with peers across member institutions and associated agencies.

TAMU-CC’s beautiful campus is located on a 240-acre island on Corpus Christi Bay and was ranked #1 College by the Sea by Best College Reviews. Our natural setting is enhanced by its modern, attractive, and state-of-the-art classroom buildings and support facilities.

Learn more information here (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EwQR4HbGJu0) !

PURPOSE The Sink Your Shucks Oyster Recycling Program Assistant plays an active role in both the daily operations and long-term success of the program at the Harte Research Institute. This position is responsible for operating shell pickup routes, maintaining equipment and vehicles, managing oyster shell storage sites, and supporting program logistics. The Program Assistant plays a key role in the growth and success of shell recycling efforts through reliable operations, attention to safety, and positive community engagement. This position regularly represents the program at outreach events and public interfaces and may also assist with research and restoration activities as part of the Coastal Conservation and Restoration Laboratory. Applicants must be dependable, able to work independently, and willing to take on physically demanding tasks in support of environmental conservation.

DESCRIPTION

Functional Area 1: Shell Recycling Program SupportPercent Effort: 60%

+ Collect oyster shells from participating restaurants and events, following established safety and handling protocols, and identify opportunities to improve collection routes.

+ Communicate proactively with partners to coordinate collection schedules and respond to changing needs.

+ Drive university vehicles and operate trailers to transport shell and equipment.

+ Conduct routine inspection, basic/preventive maintenance (fluid checks, greasing, cleaning), and minor repairs on vehicles, trailers, and small equipment; coordinate larger repairs and service to minimize downtime.

+ Monitor shell curing site for safety hazards, contamination, or improper materials.

+ Track shell collection data for internal reporting and grant compliance, input into digital tracking systems.

+ Maintain vehicle usage records and prepare regular summaries of collection activities.

+ Coordinate vehicle and trailer registrations.

+ Performs minor fabrication tasks using hand and power tools based on repair needs or field modifications.

+ Maintain an organized inventory of tools and materials; order supplies as needed.

+ Assist in developing and improving standard operating procedures for shell handling and transport.

+ Conduct pre-trip inspections and ensure compliance with TXDOT and safety standards.

+ Perform other duties as assigned.

Functional Area 2: Program Support and OutreachPercent Effort: 25%

+ Represent the program at public events, festivals, and restaurant pickups with a professional and courteous demeanor.

+ Engage with the public during interactive activities and provide clear restoration information.

+ Support setup and takedown of educational materials and displays.

+ Assist with equipment maintenance and logistical planning for community outreach activities

+ Help develop creative ways to improve shell collection efficiency and partner engagement based on field observations or logistical challenges during route planning.

+ Support grant-related reporting by providing summaries and documentation as requested.

+ Train volunteers and new staff in proper procedures when assisting with shell handling or outreach setup.

+ Contribute ideas and solutions that promote broader awareness of the program’s impact.

Functional Area 3: Research and Restoration SupportPercent Effort: 15%

+ Participate in occasional field research, including pre- and post-restoration monitoring.

+ Assist research staff in laboratory sample processing as needed.

+ Lead gear transport and coordinate team activities during research and restoration trips, including operating boats.

+ Support broader habitat restoration efforts led by the Coastal Conservation and Restoration Laboratory, as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

+ Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field.

+ Additional experience may be considered as a substitute for the minimum requirements.

+ Associate’s degree in a relevant field and two years of related experience.

+ High School Diploma/GED and four years of related experience.

+ Experience operating vehicles, boats, and trailers to transport passengers and materials safely under various conditions.

+ Familiarity with vehicle and small equipment maintenance, including electrical troubleshooting, fluid and tire checks, and small repairs

+ Strong organizational skills and ability to manage supplies and records.

+ Ability to work independently and follow safety procedures in dynamic environments.

+ Strong interpersonal skills and ability to represent the program professionally during community interactions.

+ Ability to lift and move heavy materials (100+ lbs) and perform physically demanding work in various weather conditions.

+ Proficiency with Microsoft Excel or similar software for data tracking and reporting

+ Comfort using hand tools, power tools, and diagnostic devices.

+ Availability to work flexible hours, including some weekends and evenings.

+ Valid driver’s license

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

+ Knowledge of marine habitat restoration or conservation practices.

+ Experience with small engine or fleet equipment maintenance.

+ Experience working in or with restaurants, public-facing roles, or logistics coordination.

+ Experience with basic vehicle systems including fluids, lubricants, tires, and electrical wiring connections.

+ Experience in marine-based service roles involving direct customer interaction.Knowledge of hydraulic systems.

SALARY: $19.23 - $21.16 Hourly

($40,000- $44,000 Annual, Approximately)

BENEFITS (rules, policies, eligibility apply)

From our generous benefits package (https://www.tamucc.edu/human-resources/benefits/index.php) and professional development opportunities, to our retirement programs and our commitment to service excellence, the Island University is an engaging and rewarding place to work.

INSURANCE: (https://assets.system.tamus.edu/files/benefits/website/BenefitsGuide.pdf)

+ Medical

+ $0 - $30 per month for Employee Only coverage after university contribution ($920 value).

+ Up to 83% of premium covered by the university:

+ Employee and Spouse

+ Employee and Children

+ Employee and Family coverage

+ Dental & Vision

+ Life Insurance, Accidental D&D, Long Term Disability, Flexible Spending Account and Day Care Spending Account

DUAL CAREER PARTNER PROGRAM (https://www.tamucc.edu/human-resources/careers/dual-career-partner/index.php)

ON-CAMPUS WELLNESS OPPORTUNITIES

Work Life Solutions: (https://www.tamucc.edu/human-resources/benefits/eap.php)

+ Counseling, Work Life Assistance, Financial Resources, and Legal Resources

Tuition Benefits: (https://www.tamucc.edu/human-resources/benefits/tuition/index.php)

+ Public Loan Forgiveness

+ Book scholarships

+ 100% tuition coverage for up to 18 credit hours per fiscal year (other rules may apply).

Retirement (https://www.tamucc.edu/human-resources/benefits/retirement-programs.php) :

+ Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS) or Optional Retirement Plan (ORP)

+ Voluntary Tax Deferred Account/Deferred Compensation Plan

Time Off (https://www.tamucc.edu/human-resources/time-off/index.php) :

+ 8+ hours of vacation paid time off every month.

+ 8 hours of sick leave time off every month.

+ 8 hours of paid time off for Birthday leave.

+ 12-15 paid holidays each year.

All positions are security-sensitive. Applicants are subject to a criminal history investigation, and employment is contingent upon the institution’s verification of credentials and/or other information required by the institution’s procedures, including the completion of the criminal history check.

Equal Opportunity/Veterans/Disability Employer.