GIS Specialist

This position is funded for 12 months; continuation past 12 months will be based on university need, performance, and/or availability of funding.

The Agriculture and Environment Center (AEC) is seeking a qualified candidate to serve as a GIS Specialist to aid in the execution of the AEC's collaborative and integrated research, Extension, outreach, and education programs throughout Pennsylvania and beyond. The work involves the application of geospatial software to develop, analyze, and maintain geospatial data and GIS tools and systems that identify, prioritize, facilitate, and track agricultural conservation and restoration efforts in watersheds throughout the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

The GIS Specialist will collaborate with researchers, programmers, software developers, Extension Educators, and stakeholders—including county conservation districts, the State Conservation Commission, USDA NRCS, and other entities involved in agricultural conservation—to develop geospatial data and systems that facilitate the AEC's partner-based, solution-oriented work on land and water issues.

• Conduct geospatial data analyses and manage GIS software to administer and implement the Agricultural Conservation Assistance Program in Pennsylvania.
• Develop GIS tools to analyze, prioritize, and facilitate agricultural conservation and restoration efforts in watersheds throughout Pennsylvania.
• Collect, analyze, and maintain field data relevant to agricultural conservation and watershed restoration efforts.
• Collaborate with researchers, programmers, software developers, Extension Educators, AEC staff, and others in developing GIS tools and statistical analyses of data related to agricultural conservation and watershed restoration implementation efforts.
• Communicate with critical stakeholders—including county conservation districts, the State Conservation Commission, USDA NRCS, and other private and public entities involved in agricultural conservation—to enhance data analyses, deliver GIS tools and systems, and facilitate collaborative efforts related to the implementation of agricultural conservation and watershed restoration.
• Other duties as assigned.

• GIS and geospatial data analyses
• Statistical data analyses
• Watershed and agricultural science
• Knowledge of farming and conservation practices on farms
• Watershed management and solutions to address water quality issues
• Experience and skills in communication and education
• Complex problem‑solving skills
• Complex collaborative project management
• Use of GPS tools to collect field data
• Experience with specific geospatial systems, programming, and data analytical tools—including the ESRI suite, Python, and R analytics

A degree in the field of geography and GIS systems or environmental sciences is preferred.

• Bachelor's Degree
• 1+ year(s) of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted
• Required
  
  Certifications:
  
  None

This position will remain open until filled.

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. This position requires that you operate a motor vehicle as a part of your job duties. A valid driver's license and successful completion of a motor vehicle records check will be required in addition to standard background checks. Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa.

Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.

The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $51,000.00 - $74,000.00.

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well‑being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off, which includes holidays, vacation, and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well…