Why work or volunteer with TERC?

UC Davis is a top-ranked research university brimming with innovation and is known for standout academics, sustainability, and Aggie Pride. The Tahoe Environmental Research Center is a field station that has been at the forefront of science research at Lake Tahoe since 1968. Work alongside world-class scientists, researchers, and educators to help sustain one of the most beautiful and unique places on Earth. Our small staff provides personalized attention for improved training experiences in a diverse array of opportunities giving you every reason to love working here. UC Davis TERC staff are proud to deliver high-quality teaching, research, and public service to further TERC’s mission and impact across the nation and throughout the world.

Job Opportunities 

Staff Research Associate 2 (2 positions) Applications due date extended to February 28

Under the direction of the Field Research Supervisor, provide field support for safely and effectively managing a range of laboratory and field activities including long term monitoring, bathymetric surveys/mapping, sensor development and environmental robotics at the Tahoe Environmental Research Center. Primary duties will include: processing data from multibeam and sidescan sonar surveys, current profilers (ADCPs) and water quality profilers (CTDs, LISST, Thermistors, DO loggers); Operations of vessels for research such as Lake Tahoe basin long-term monitoring, sonar technologies (e.g. bathymetric, side scan, etc.), autonomous vehicles (e.g. autonomous underwater vehicles, drones, etc.), ADCP deployments and new instrumentation (both standalone and vessel mounted); Conduct a variety of field related data collections and equipment maintenance (e.g. SCUBA diving surveys for metaphyton/periphyton data collection, nearshore instrumentation calibration and maintenance, long-term monitoring data collection, stream sampling, etc.); Provide support for logistics, field operations, data processing, equipment maintenance; and student/intern supervision and training.

Minimum Qualifications - For full consideration, applicants are encouraged to upload license and/or certification if required of the position

• Bachelor’s degree in an engineering or science discipline, preferably hydrography, ecology, chemistry, engineering or equivalent.
• Experience with environmental research in aquatic environments including boat based and SCUBA based research.
• Experience in the operation and maintenance of specialized limnological equipment.
• Organizational, data handling and record-keeping skills.
• An ability to work as part of a diverse team and an ability to work with minimal supervision.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills are an essential part of this position, along with an ability to prepare high quality technical reports.
• An ability to swim over 100 meters.

Apply here

Applications due February 28, 2025 at 11:59pm 

Interns & Summer Internships (on-going)

Internships are open to any student from any school to work in the laboratory, in the field, and in science education at Lake Tahoe. While most opportunities are available during the summer months, other opportunities may be available throughout the year. Intern applicants are welcome to turn in a completed application which specifies their availability and area of interest at any time.  

Volunteer Docent Program

UC Davis TERC coordinates a volunteer docent program to connect the talents of community volunteers to the needs and interests of visitors and students. Join a group of individuals who are helping to provide the best in science education and foster stewardship throughout the Tahoe Basin. Full-time and seasonal residents that value beautiful Lake Tahoe are highly encouraged to volunteer. Flexible scheduling is available.  

Volunteer Opportunities

Other seasonal volunteer opportunities are available throughout the year. Please contact Alison Toy at antoy@ucdavis.edu for more information about upcoming opportunities.