Research Specialist Programmer

Job Requisition: JR101355 |

Title:

Research Specialist Programmer | Department: CC00496 VIMS1 | RADV | CCRM | Sub Type:
Wage-Temporary (Fixed Term) | Primary

Location:

Virginia Institute of Marine Science

The Research Specialist, Programmer supports Center for Coastal Resources Management (CCRM) projects by developing and maintaining data processing workflows, performing data analysis, creating visualizations, and assisting in the automation and web-based delivery of research outputs. This role collaborates closely with project scientists and technical staff to translate scientific and environmental datasets into accessible, visually informative tools that support policy and resource management decisions.

• Develop, modify, and maintain data processing scripts and algorithms for CCRM research projects.
• Write and debug code to clean, transform, analyze, and structure large environmental and geospatial datasets.
• Automate repetitive data workflows to improve project efficiency and reproducibility.
• Ensure data quality through validation checks, documentation, and version control practices.
• Collaborate with research staff to translate scientific requirements into functional programming solutions.
• Document code and workflows to ensure transparency and continuity across project teams.
• Design and develop data visualizations, dashboards, and interactive displays to communicate research findings.
• Assist in building and maintaining web-based tools and interfaces that present project data to stakeholders.
• Support updates and enhancements to CCRM website pages and dashboards.
• Attend and contribute to scheduled project meetings.
• Provide technical input on data feasibility, visualization options, and workflow improvements.
• Assist with documentation, reporting, and deliverable preparation as needed.
• Perform other related duties assigned in support of CCRM initiatives.

• Associate’s degree in computer science, data science, information systems, environmental informatics, or related technical field; OR equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Experience with marine and/or oceanographic science.
• Proficiency in at least one programming language used for data analysis (e.g., Python, R, C++, Java).
• Experience performing data analysis and creating data visualizations.
• Ability to write, test, and troubleshoot code independently.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple assignments and meet project deadlines.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, data science, environmental science, information systems, or related field.
• Experience developing automated data pipelines or reproducible research workflows.
• Experience with data visualization libraries (e.g., matplotlib, ggplot2, Plotly, D3).
• Experience with HTML, CSS, or web‑based dashboard development.
• Experience working with environmental, geospatial, or scientific datasets.
• Familiarity with version control systems (e.g., Git).
• Experience supporting research or academic project environments.

Up to $20.00 per hour, commensurate with experience.

Term position not to exceed 8 months; restricted by availability of funding. Hourly employees subject to Virginia Manpower Control Program; average of 29 hours per week over 12‑month period beginning May1 annually. Non‑exempt; overtime eligibility per Fair Labor Standards Act. May require extended hours during peak periods. Must be able to work in Virginia beginning March
2026.

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