Data Specialist (Data QA/QC & GIS): Desert Tortoise Monitoring Program

The Mojave desert tortoise (Gopherus agassizii) is federally listed as a threatened species north and west of the Colorado River under the Endangered Species Act.  The Great Basin Institute partners with the US Fish and Wildlife Service and Clark County Desert Conservation Program to conduct line distance sampling and radio telemetry as part of long-term research and monitoring projects. The Data Specialist supports the Desert Tortoise Monitoring Program through data management, pre-season preparation, GIS logistics coordination, and training of field crews. 

• Data management (primary duty): The Data Specialist sets up and manages data collection devices (iPads with Survey123), oversees weekly data submissions by field crews, conducts weekly quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) checks of the data following strict US Fish and Wildlife Service protocol, provides prompt feedback to field crews on data issues, and submits data deliverables to project partners. The QA/QC checks are conducted via manual review and automated scripts, using Microsoft Access (including SQL queries), GIS, and R. 
• Pre-season preparation and field crew training (secondary duty): The Data Specialist will work with the Desert Tortoise Program Manager and other GBI staff to organize field equipment and training materials before training starts in March. During the rigorous 4-week training program the Data Specialist will assist the Program Manager and project partners with training seasonal field staff in data collection and QA/QC protocols as well as general field skills.
• GIS logistics coordination (secondary duty): The Data Specialist will assist the Program Manager with planning field logistics using GIS, including assigning transects, creating field maps, and tracking transect completion. 

This position plays a critical role in guiding and supporting field crews to ensure efficient and accurate data collection. It may require long and irregular hours, including early morning, late evenings, and weekends when necessary. A high attention to detail and strict adherence to established protocols is required. Occasional travel to field sites, including overnight camping, may be necessary for field scouting, training, and support of field crews. 

Contract Timeline:

• Mid Jan/early Feb, 2024 through Mid May/mid June, 2024 (Start and end date negotiable)
• Full-time, 40 hours per week
• Weekend and/or overtime hours may be required during field season

Location:
Las Vegas, NV

Compensation and Benefits:

• $23.00 per hour
• Provided health insurance (medical, dental and vision)
• Paid personal leave

Job Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in a natural resources or computer science related field required, MS preferred;
• Experience collecting and managing electronic data required;
• Experience conducting data QA/QC required;
• Experience managing and modifying vector layers and producing field maps in GIS (ArcMap, ArcPro, or QGIS) preferred;
• Experience managing and reviewing data in Microsoft Access or similar database program preferred;
• Experience using and troubleshooting Survey123 survey forms preferred;
• Experience using and modifying scripts in R, SQL, and/or Python preferred;
• Working knowledge of hand-held Garmin GPS units and Apple iPads/iPhones preferred, including the ability to troubleshoot potential issues;
• Ability to read and navigate using topographic map and compass preferred;
• Ability to operate a 4WD vehicle on- or off-road preferred;
• Must be a motivated self-starter and very detail oriented;
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team environment required;
• Ability to communicate effectively with field technicians, as well as peers, supervisors, and project partners required;
• Ability to maintain a positive attitude in challenging situations required;
• Willingness to work a variable schedule (including weekends) that may change with little or no notice required;
• Possess a valid, clean, state-issued driver’s license; and 
• Able to pass National Sex Offender Public Registry (NSOPR) and FBI criminal background checks required.