GIS Specialist

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location.For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants. This position is funded for 12 months; continuation past 12 months will be based on university need, performance, and/or availability of funding. POSITION SPECIFICS The Agriculture and Environment Center (AEC) is seeking a qualified candidate to serve as a GIS Specialist to aid in the execution of the AEC’s collaborative and integrated research, Extension, outreach, and education programs throughout Pennsylvania and beyond, and specifically the new Center for Agricultural Conservation Assistance Training at Penn State Extension. The work involves application of geospatial software to develop, analyze, and maintain geospatial data and GIS tools and systems to identify, prioritize, facilitate, and track agricultural conservation and restoration efforts in watersheds throughout the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. The GIS Specialist will collaborate with researchers, programmers and software developers, Extension Educators, and stakeholders (particularly county conservation districts, the State Conservation Commission, USDA NRCS, and other entities involved in agricultural conservation) in the development of geospatial data and systems to facilitate the AEC’s partner-based, solution-oriented work on land and water issues. Primary duties include: Conduct geospatial data analyses and provide management of GIS software to administer and implement the Agricultural Conservation Assistance Program in Pennsylvania. Develop GIS tools to analyze, prioritize, and facilitate agricultural conservation and restoration efforts in watersheds throughout Pennsylvania. Collect, analyze, and maintain field data relevant to agricultural conservation and watershed restoration efforts. Collaborate with researchers, programmers, software developers, Extension Educators, AEC staff, and others in development of GIS tools and statistical analyses of data related to agricultural conservation and watershed restoration implementation efforts. Communicate with critical stakeholders, including county conservation districts, State Conservation Commission, USDA NRCS, and other private and public entities involved in agricultural conservation efforts in Pennsylvania, to enhance data analyses and the delivery of GIS tools and systems and facilitate collaborative efforts related to the implementation of agricultural conservation and watershed restoration efforts. Other duties as assigned. This position offers a flexible work arrangement that combines remote and on-campus work. Questions related to flexible work should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process. The ideal candidate would have knowledge in the following areas: GIS and geospatial data analyses; statistical data analyses; watershed and agricultural science; knowledge of farming and conservation practices on farms; watershed management and solutions to address water quality issues; experience and skills in communication and education; complex problem-solving skills; complex collaborative project management; use of GPS tools to collect field data; experience with specific geospatial systems, programming, and data analytical tools including the ESRI suite, Python, and R analytics. Preferred Qualification: A degree in the field of geography and GIS systems or environmental sciences is preferred. MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS Bachelor’s Degree1+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience acceptedRequired Certifications:None Application Deadline: This position will remain open until filled. Background Checks/Clearances Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. This position requires that you operate a motor vehicle as a part of your job duties. A valid driver’s license and successful completion of a motor vehicle records check will be required in addition to standard background checks. Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S. SALARY & BENEFITS The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $54,060.00 - $78,444.00. Salary Structure- Information on Penn State’s salary structure Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page. Campus Security Crime Statistics Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here. EEO IS THE LAW Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact View phone number on click.appcast.io. Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university’s teaching, research, and service mission. 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