Data Manager and GIS Specialist

INTRODUCTION

The Salonga Conservation Initiative (SCI) is a US-based non-profit organization with a mission to preserve the rich biodiversity of the Salonga National Park, stronghold of the endangered bonobo, in the Democratic Republic of Congo.  SCI conducts critical field research that assesses wildlife populations, habitats, and threats and guides impactful conservation strategies.  SCI researches and surveys wildlife populations, focusing on bonobos and forest elephants, to monitor population status and determine risks to their survival. 

POSITION DESCRIPTION

The Data Manager is dedicated to safeguarding and preserving data generated from research and biomonitoring activities supported by SCI.  The full-time position curates research and field data, assures data quality control, performs basic GIS analyses and mapping, prepares data for specific analyses or data sharing, runs basic statistics and summary tables, and provides results to the Director and field team.  The position’s work is the backbone of SCI’s biomonitoring role in the Salonga National Park and fundamentally supports scientific analyses and reporting.  The full-time position is based in or near Milwaukee, WI, working in a hybrid office/remote setting.  The manager would work with various research/field staff based in the US, in DRC or living internationally.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES

• Serve as SCI’s data specialist by organizing, processing, cleaning and verifying large amounts of survey data in various forms and formats (including photographic data) and preparing data for analysis. Process and integrate geo-spatial data with field observations.
• Create maps generated from the field data.
• Help ensure data quality and provide feedback to SCI researchers and field teams responsible for data collection.
• Prepare data and conduct analyses independently or conjointly with research team members as directed. Write up follow up reports.
• Create and modify GIS datasets within ArcGIS Pro and ArcGIS Online, manage and maintain legacy GIS datasets, perform basic GIS functions and mapping, develop and implement GIS-based analyses supporting biomonitoring research.
• Conduct statistical analysis using R/SPSS to support research objectives.
• Support and help prepare project reports, funding applications, and scientific publications.
• Contribute to SCI project planning and biomonitoring objectives by critically assessing project design and advising on data models.
• Provide support for technical reports to park authorities, funding agencies and collaborators.
• Provide technical support to field missions including equipment procurement/troubleshooting, and testing. Provide technical backup to team to solve computer/equipment/GIS issues. Manage Microsoft SharePoint sites and ensure functionality for remote staff.
• Organize and maintain field mission photos and videos. Help update and provide program content/photos for articles, press releases, social media, and the website.
• Participate in SCI program promotion – talks, interviews, etc. – as needed.
• Conduct necessary bibliographic searches and maintain research bibliography.
• Explore new software, application to SCI needs, pricing and procurement.
• Help troubleshoot technical issues.
• As needed, work under direction or independently, manage multiple assignments, determine and set job task priorities, communicate effectively to help solve problems with team members (often advising/assisting remotely), and adapt to changing conditions/schedules as projects demand.
• Work as a team member to realize SCI’s goals.
• On occasion, lift and carry up to 50 lbs. (e.g., cargo/luggage)

QUALIFICATIONS

• Candidates shall possess at least three years of experience in data management/analysis and three years in basic GIS with hands-on knowledge of Esri ArcGIS desktop software, including ArcPro.
• Experienced with GPS data collection and data management; ability to use and edit shapefiles and geodatabases
• She/he should display competency in managing large amounts of scientific data (with attention to detail), have sound knowledge of analytical methods, basic statistics, and have experience with standard statistical software.
• Preferred candidate should have practical experience in wildlife/botanical surveys, Distance analyses (or similar analytical models/software).
• She/he must have excellent writing and verbal skills and be able to write/edit reports for publications.
• The candidate should be adept at learning new software and troubleshooting technical issues.
• Candidate must be able to take directions yet work independently, manage multiple assignments, determine and set job task priorities, communicate effectively to help solve problems with field team members (often advising/assisting remotely), and adapt to changing conditions/schedules as field projects demand.
• As a team member, the candidate must be highly motivated and committed to realizing SCI’s goals.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE

• Master’s degree required and comparable work experience preferred, that incorporates management of georeferenced datasets, data manipulation and analyses, and related GIS functions.
• She/he must possess demonstrable skills in GIS, managing data, research and basic statistical analyses. Competency in R language helpful. GIS certification is preferred.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and SharePoint. Advanced use of Excel is a must.

OTHER QUALIFICATIONS

• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs.
• Ability to operate a computer keyboard, mouse and to handle office equipment.
• The ability to maintain good attendance is a condition of employment and a function of this position.
• French language proficiency is an advantage.