Senior Scientific Specialist, GIS
Illinois Natural History Survey
Prairie Research Institute
The Illinois Natural History Survey (INHS) investigates and documents the biological resources of Illinois and other areas and acquires and provides natural history information that can be used to promote the common understanding, conservation, and management of these resources. INHS is part of the Prairie Research Institute (PRI) at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, which is centrally located between Chicago, St. Louis, and Indianapolis. To learn more visit go.illinois.edu/PRIjob.
INHS is seeking a GIS Specialist to administer research activities of the Survey by developing, planning, directing, and conducting basic and applied research with emphasis on state endangered and threatened species. This position will be located in Champaign, Illinois.
Duties & Responsibilities
- Assist with geospatial database development that maintains records of all surveys and records for threatened and endangered species throughout Illinois.
- Coordinates with multiple entities the collection, submission, and automation of new biological field data for inclusion into statewide geospatial database.
- Maintain, update, and troubleshoot ArcGIS Online mapping tools, GPS, ESRI Collector and Survey123 software for group.
- Create spatial data from multiple non-spatial sources and formats using digitization and georeferencing techniques demonstrating a firm understanding of biological data and geographic coordinate systems, datums, and projections.
- Integrate new biological data into existing geodatabases, convert attributes between multiple domain schemas.
- Utilize GIS applications to examine the locations, attributes, and relationships of features in spatial data through overlay and other analytical techniques.
- Utilize GIS applications to perform advanced spatial analysis or data conversion or manipulation.
- Use applications and scripts to create automated geoprocessing workflows.
- Work with GIS-related software and programs to create and maintain a database and/or maps that can be combined to create geographically correlated data.
- Develop Web Maps/Apps/Dashboards for use on ArcGIS Online (AGOL) and Portal in conjunction with Collector and Survey123
- Expands expertise in a threatened and endangered species and their associated habitats.
- Develop biological data collection and reporting methods for field staff based on existing field protocols as required by state or federal agencies.
- Configure and troubleshoot various GPS devices and mobile data collection applications.
- Attend professional and scientific meetings, conferences, and training sessions to further expertise about threatened and endangered species and their natural habitats.
- Conduct and assist with biological surveys in the field.
- Supervise, train, mentor, and lead staff to achieve success and foster a culture of innovation and high-level performance at both individual and organizational levels. This includes task assignment, scheduling, ongoing performance management with coaching and feedback, training, etc.
- Lead training for all new database users including field staff, hourlies, and interns.
- Develop professional contacts and activities at a state and/or national level and build a strong professional reputation.
- Perform other duties to further the mission and goals of the Survey, PRI, and the University of Illinois.
- Keep abreast of developments in this
Physical Demands
Some of the work of this position takes place in an office setting. The work is sedentary and involves remaining in a stationary position for extended periods of time working at a computer, using a keyboard and mouse, and using repetitive hand motions. Will occasionally require working in adverse field conditions (heat, humidity, biting insects, etc.), travel (including driving to and from research sites) throughout the state of Illinois working irregular hours and overnights; lift and carry equipment weighing up to 25 pounds.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in geography, GIS, environmental science, or related field. Alternate degree fields will be considered depending on the nature and depth of the experience as it relates to this position. A minimum of 2 years of working experience within the ESRI products suite (ArcGIS Desktop, ArcGIS Pro), and other GIS software such as Collector and Survey123. 2+ years GIS experience with emphasis in designing and deploying GIS data models using languages such as Python, HTML, Arcade, SQL. Be able to develop and maintain spatial databases, including MS Access and File Geodatabases (GDB). Valid Driver’s License, and certification in GIS and ESRI products.
Preferred Qualifications
Master of Science in geography, environmental science, ecology, wildlife biology, or related program. Alternate degree fields will be considered depending on the nature and depth of the experience as it relates to this position. Experience with state and federal laws governing protections of threatened and endangered species.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
Knowledge of Illinois’ endangered and threatened species, and familiarity with the scientific literature and bibliographic databases concerning these species and their associated habitats. Effective communication, personal relations, collaboration, organizational, teamwork, and leadership skills. Demonstrated ability to perform effectively in a diverse and fast-paced work environment consisting of multiple and changing priorities with stringent deadlines, under minimal supervision. Attention to detail, sound judgment, and strong conflict resolution skills. Proficiency in commonly employed software and databases. The ability to quickly learn computer programs and follow workflow processes. Knowledge of the fundamental principles, practices, and techniques of GIS. Working knowledge with ESRI Product/Application Suite: ArcGIS Desktop and Extensions, ArcGIS Pro, ArcGIS Server, ArcGIS Online, Collector for ArcGIS, Survey 123. Experience in conducting geospatial analyses/geoprocessing, task automation, presenting results, and graphically reporting analytical data. Strong written and oral communication skills for all levels of technical understanding. Working knowledge of midwestern threatened and endangered species and their associated habitats.
Appointment Information
This is a 100% full-time Academic Professional position, appointed on a 12-month basis. The expected start date is negotiable. Salary is dependent on qualifications and experience.
Application Procedures & Deadline Information
Applications must be received by September 22, 2022. Applications can be submitted here: https://illinois.csod.com/ux/ats/careersite/1/home/requisition/1299?c=illinois by selecting the Apply Now button at the top or bottom of the posting. Applications not submitted through this website will not be considered. Application materials must include a 1) cover letter that clearly outlines your qualifications and experience as it relates to this position, 2) a CV or resume, and 3) names and contact information (including email addresses) for three professional references. Incomplete applications will not be considered. For further information about this specific position, please contact Dr. Wendy Schelsky at schelsky@illinois.edu. For questions regarding the application process, please contact 217-333-2137.
The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity employer, including but not limited to disability and/or veteran status, and complies with all applicable state and federal employment mandates. Please visit Required Employment Notices and Posters to view our non-discrimination statement and find additional information about required background checks, sexual harassment/misconduct disclosures, COVID-19 vaccination requirement, and employment eligibility review through E-Verify.
Applicants with disabilities are encouraged to apply and may request a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (2008) to complete the application and/or interview process. Requests may be submitted through the reasonable accommodations portal, or by contacting the Accessibility & Accommodations Division of the Office for Access and Equity at 217-333-0885, or by emailing accessibility@illinois.edu.