Observing Data Specialist

The Great Lakes Observing System (GLOS) is a nonprofit that provides end-to-end data services that support science, policy, management and industry in the U.S. and Canada. GLOS is one of eleven regional associations under the Integrated Ocean Observing System (IOOS).

Reporting to the Science and Observations Manager, the Observing Data Specialist will be required to work independently and in a team environment, represent the organization, recommend data solutions and innovations, occasionally travel, and advocate and support the GLOS observing partners. The successful candidate will also be involved with other matters related to GLOS, including sensor data, data processing and products, outreach, and application development. 

This is a remote, in-person, or hybrid role dependent upon the location of the selected candidate, with a preference for candidates in the Great Lakes region. This position is open to U.S. Citizens or permanent residents.

RESPONSIBILITIES  

• Platform-specific data management
• Metadata development, tracking, and updating, including (but not limited to) parameters, organizational info, and platform info
• Perform QA/QC of observational data, adhering to established IOOS best-practices
• Platform tracking and data review
• Supporting development and execution of technical requirements for data transfer, such as to NOAA NCEI
• Support observing platform operators and partners as needed
• Observations data management
• Inputting data and information like habs information, other safety information from emails etc
• User survey and feedback analysis
• Support testing of GLOS product suite – beta and user testing
• Monitor data pipelines and processes of GLOS
• Validate visualizations and information on GLOS products with other platforms for comparisons
• Review analytics data
• Observing network support
• Review emerging technologies
• Report writing and communication about the network
• Tracking GLOS-developed KPIs related to observations
• Respond to user requests for data

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor of Science degree in oceanography, marine technology, engineering, environmental science, or related field with emphasis on water technology;
• Experience with Python, R, shell scripting, SQL, and JavaScript (not Java);
• Familiarity with data management best practices and interpreting data;
• Excellent written and oral communication and presentation skills, including ease in communicating complex concepts in a clear, effective manner for a general audience;
• Demonstrated experience in working in a collaborative environment.

There will be some travel associated with this position. Estimate 2-3 trips per year throughout the Great Lakes region (including Canada). A valid passport and driver’s license is required.

PREFERRED EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS

• M.Sc. degree in oceanography, marine science, engineering, environmental science or related water technology or applied field;
• Basic understanding of geospatial concepts and familiarity with common geospatial data formats;
• 2+ years of experience conducting fieldwork on large lakes, the Great Lakes/oceans, or hands-on experience deploying and maintaining water monitoring equipment;
• Familiarity with complex environmental monitoring equipment, telemetry, data management, and emerging technology;
• 3+ years of experience managing water monitoring projects and/or technology development, applying for grants/proposals, conducting multi-disciplinary studies on freshwater or marine systems;
• Experience managing projects with multiple PI’s and working with public and private sector partners is preferred. Project management training can be provided for motivated individuals; and
• Creative thinking, collaborative attitude, and desire to contribute to a fun and inspired work environment

SALARY AND BENEFITS

• 2-year full-time, exempt position with a GS-9/10 salary range, with possibility to renew.
• Hybrid or fully remote position; office located in Ann Arbor, MI.
• Medical, Vision and Dental coverage options
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA) option
• Generous paid time off including US Federal holidays and 26 annual PTO days