GIS Data Services Specialist - US Forest Service, PA

GIS Data Services Specialist – Forest disturbance and carbon cycling
Location: Newton Square, Pennsylvania (U.S. Forest Service Northern
Research Station)
Employer: University of Florida
Supervisors: Richard Birdsey (http://www.nrs.fs.fed.us/people/Birdsey/)
and Jeremy Lichstein
(http://biology.ufl.edu/People/faculty/jlichstein.aspx)

Overview:
This position is located in Newtown Square, Pennsylvania at the U.S.
Forest Service Northern Research Station (Climate, Fire, and Carbon Cycle
Sciences Research Work Unit) and is part of a collaborative effort with
the University of Florida, Department of Biology. Main duties are to
provide Geographic Information System (GIS) and data management support
for developing spatial databases that summarize current and historical
forest disturbances: wildfire, insects, timber harvesting, wind, etc. Data
sources include forest inventory data, aerial surveys, and existing
spatial databases that need to be merged into a single, consistent
database. We seek a candidate with expertise in managing very large data
sets and in applying analysis techniques and models within a GIS
framework. A Master’s or PhD degree in biological or environmental
sciences with a strong emphasis on GIS and data management is preferred.

Geographic Information Systems Applications (40%):
Plan and execute complex projects involving digital image processing on
data acquired from both space and airborne imaging platforms, such as
Landsat, SPOT, AVHRR, RADARSAT, airborne digital camera, and LiDAR.
Responsible for managing natural resource data, both spatial and tabular.
Work closely with staff in developing management interpretations and
applications using GIS data. Provide technical support for various natural
resources databases, including management of spatial data and related
information structures. Develop applications using both spatial and
relationship database queries and report writers as needed. Work with
staff specialists in developing interpretations and applications of GIS
data for natural resource modeling. Apply fundamental principles and
techniques associated with modeling and analysis procedures related to
geospatial and attribute data and products. Use spatial statistical tools
for modeling geospatial and attribute data to simulate, estimate,
interpolate, and predict ecosystem processes.

GIS Database Administration (40%):
Provide technical expertise and coordination in the design,
implementation, management, analysis, and use of spatial and attribute
databases. Develop policies and procedures to ensure geospatial and
attribute database security and to allow appropriate access to data.
Ensure consistency and quality of existing and newly created datasets.
Develop spatial database input and output standards and ensure that data
is in the correct format for data capture and data output. Coordinate
relationship of layer design, spatial information, and database so the
results of appropriate modeling techniques can be applied. Ensure
cooperation with other organizations and staff personnel.

Technical Analysis (20%):
Perform statistical analyses using established methods and procedures.
Assist senior staff in preparing integrated assessments of disturbance
processes and their effects on ecosystems. Prepare reports summarizing
analysis results and discussing their scientific, policy, and management
implications.

Duration and timing: One year, with an option to extend depending on the
availability of funds. Start-date is flexible, with a preferred start date
on or before January 14, 2013.

Preferred qualifications: Master’s or PhD degree in biological or
environmental sciences with a strong emphasis on GIS and data management.

Salary: $50,000-62,000 (commensurate with experience) plus benefits.

To apply: Send a single pdf including a cover letter explaining interest
in and qualifications for the position, CV, and contact information for 3
references to Jeremy Lichstein ([email protected]). Applications will be
reviewed beginning on Sept. 24, 2012, and the position will remain open
until filled.

Minorities, women and members of other underrepresented groups are
encouraged to apply. The University of Florida is an equal opportunity
institution.