Assistant Research Scientist (GIS/Quantitative Analyst)

Position Description:

ASSISTANT RESEARCH SCIENTIST (GIS/QUANTITATIVE ANALYST). School of Forest Resources and Environmental Science. Michigan Technological University (Position Located in Rhinelander, WI).

We are seeking an analyst to provide mid- to high-level GIS and analytical support for an ongoing, collaborative project with the USDA Forest Service in Rhinelander, WI. The project team is examining historic and modern fire regimes and vegetation, and mapping ecological units in National Forests of the eastern United States. Duties will include extensive GIS processing of vector and raster data, creating printed layouts, calculating basic statistics, summarizing and graphing data, locating and obtaining digital data, digitizing, documentation, informal training of other personnel in GIS techniques as needed, and other tasks as requested. Opportunities may exist to co-author manuscripts and attend conferences or training workshops.

A Master’s degree (or Bachelor’s degree with 2 years relevant experience) in an appropriate discipline with a strong emphasis on GIS is required. Extensive knowledge of and experience with ArcView and ArcGIS are essential to this position. Other required skills include strong proficiency with word processing, spreadsheet, and database software (preferably the Microsoft suite), and a demonstrated understanding of basic statistics and quantitative methods. Attention to detail, a positive attitude, and ability to function well as part of a small team are extremely important. Applicant should be goal-oriented and willing to learn additional skills needed to complete the work. Knowledge of ERDAS IMAGINE and methods for spatial analysis, experience with statistical software (SPlus, SAS), and a forestry or ecology background are highly desirable, but not required.