Title: Data Specialist
Position Type: Full-Time, Letter of Appointment
Work Location: Casper, Wyoming
Duration: Nov 2022- Nov 2023*
*Possible 1 year extension depending on funding
Salary: $47,000-53,000, depending on experience
Montana University System medical coverage and retirement plans, moving stipend, among others
Summary of Position
The University of Montana’s Ecological Mapping, Monitoring, and Analysis group (EMMA) is currently recruiting a Data Specialist to assist in implementing the Bureau of Land Management’s (BLM) Aquatic Assessment, Inventory, and Monitoring (AIM) protocol, targeted at collecting standardized data on streams and riparian areas across BLM Districts in the state of Wyoming. The Data Specialist is responsible for assisting the BLM staff, at state and local levels, to complete data collection, review and QA/QC data, and perform analyses needed to make management decisions on BLM managed land. During the field season (Mar-Aug) the Data Specialist will implement QA/QC procedures for BLM datasets, provide technical support and training to field staff in the use of ArcGIS Field Maps and Survey123, work with BLM staff on data management and storage issues for AIM and related datasets (i.e., multiple indicator monitoring (MIM)), and assist field crews with the implementation of the Aquatic AIM protocol. In other months, and as time permits, the Data Specialist will complete basic analysis and reporting using AIM data as needed for completion of BLM business. Other duties might include (if needed): assisting in the hiring and training of new staff, communication, and coordination with agency project partners, reviewing research sites, equipment management and purchasing, transportation, and planning.
The Data Specialist will be a University of Montana employee based directly at the BLM Field Office in Casper, WY. Furthermore, the individual will obtain BLM credentials with access to a BLM email account, software, and
databases. This position is supervised directly by the UM Aquatic Scientist/Project Manager and Associate Director (both located in Missoula, MT), in close collaboration with the Wyoming BLM Program Lead and State Monitoring Lead (both located in Cheyenne, WY). A workstation and office space will be provided at the BLM Field Office.
The University of Montana is an affirmative action, equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from qualified minorities, veterans, and women. Qualified candidates may request veterans’ or disabilities preference in accordance with state law.
Responsibilities
- Perform analyses of Lotic AIM data (https://www.blm.gov/documents/national-office/blm- library/technical-reference/aim-national-aquatic-monitoring-0) under the guidance of the UM Aquatic Scientist and WY BLM Lotic AIM Project Lead.
- Coordinate with BLM District and Field Office representatives to complete data collection, review and QA/QC data, and perform analyses.
- Assist with field work logistics and data collection across the state of Wyoming as needed during the field season (June-August).
Qualifications
- Coursework in fisheries, hydrology, fluvial geomorphology, or a related field. A completed B.S. degree is required. Master’s degree preferred.
- Field experience characterizing aquatic ecosystems including measuring multiple geomorphological characteristics of streams and rivers, habitat complexity, and riparian vegetation. Preferred experience with aquatic ecosystems of Wyoming.
- Experience with statistical analyses of monitoring data, developing spatial data delivery projects and tools, and design maps and other products that effectively communicate to target audiences.
- Ability to use Microsoft Office (Word, Excel). Preferred experience with ESRI products (ArcGIS and ArcPro), Survey123, and statistical software (e.g., R or Python).
- Experience following established field protocols to conduct sampling and field data collection.
- Work and communicate effectively and professionally with a diverse group of people, including scientists, public agency personnel, program managers and others.
- Comfortable with remote supervision.
- Willingness to occasionally spend multiple days camping in undeveloped locations.
How To Apply
Please submit the following application materials to Matt Trentman at matthew.trentman@mso.umt.edu as separate PDF documents. Applications submitted prior to November 30, 2022, will be given full consideration; however, the position will remail open until filled. Please submit:
1. Letter of Interest (1 page)– addressing interest and qualifications for the position
2. Detailed resume listing education and describing work experience
3. Names and contact information for three (3) professional references
4. Transcripts