GIS/Spatial Analysis Specialist

Position Purpose

To support the instructional and research activities of the Geography Department by applying knowledge and skill in GIS, spatial analysis, and related computer technology.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Geography or a closely related field or the equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Two years of relevant laboratory/research experience.

Skills & Knowledge

• Knowledge, experience, and skills with geospatial software, especially Esri's ArcGIS Pro and ArcGIS Online.
• Experience teaching/supporting students at the university level.
• Excellent written and verbal communication, including the ability to present information in a clear manner.
• Competency with quantitative/statistical analytical methods, procedures, and techniques.
• Ability to work independently and manage a variety of projects in a timely manner.

Preferred Qualifications

• Willingness to learn new geospatial software and methods and stay up-to-date in a changing field.
• Basic familiarity with coding in one or more languages such as R, Python, or JavaScript, and willingness to develop coding skills further.
• Readiness to collaborate on developing and improving the department's GIS curriculum and community.

Teaching (70%)

• Serves as lab instructor and teaching assistant for GIS classes offered by the Geography Department at the introductory and intermediate levels.
• Teaches lab sessions and assists in the instruction of those GIS classes, including grading, answering student questions, and addressing technical problems.
• Collaborates with faculty to develop curricula and advise the use of hardware and software to achieve their learning objectives.

Research (20%)

• Collaborates with faculty and other members of the department in research activities that require GIS operations, including spatial analysis and cartography.
• Supports graduate and undergraduate students with geospatial research methods, workflows, and troubleshooting.

Service (10%)

• Maintains the software, hardware, and network of the department's Rahr computer teaching lab to ensure they are in a functional condition for class teaching, including but not limited to periodically cleaning hard drives, re-imaging computers, replacing outdated devices, and daily troubleshooting.
• Manages computer lab for classes inside and outside the department, including coordinating schedules, maintaining the lab space, and communicating lab policies.
• Contributes to management of other departmental hardware, such as the large-format plotter.
• Maintains communication with the department administrators and provides support as needed, including but not limited to website maintenance, social media, marketing, and graphic design.