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.
