Temp Casual Research Assistant

Working with the U-Spatial team, this position will support geospatial research across the University of Minnesota. U-Spatial is a nationally recognized model that provides consulting services and drives a fast-growing need for expertise in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Geographic Information Science (GIScience), remote sensing, and spatial computing across the University.

We are seeking a temporary GIS technician to work on the Minnesota statewide Lead Service Line Project. The GIS technicians will be responsible for integrating data submissions from public water supplies, reviewing the data for inconsistencies, geocoding addresses, communicating with team members, and assuring an accurate final product.

We are seeking a GIS Technician with a good eye for detail. The ideal candidate will demonstrate proficiency in ArcGIS Pro and Online, with a preference for some experience running Python scripts. Experience with geoprocessing tools is also highly desirable. Attention to detail is strongly preferred, as the candidate will be responsible for a multi-step process for integrating, reviewing, and assuring data submissions from public water supplies.

Essential Functions

Research and Project Assistance (80%)
Assist with various projects based on individual strengths, including:
* Cartographic design and mapping.
* Database management and data cleanup.
* Spatial analysis.
* Programming or scripting for tools and web applications.
* Support in research and report writing tasks.

User Services (10%)
* Research and respond to inquiries from students, faculty, and staff regarding GIS, remote sensing, spatial computing, and software licensing via email, phone calls, and walk-in consultations.
* Log all interactions in the incident tracking system.
* Develop documentation for a knowledge base to address common queries.

Other tasks (10%)
* Support training workshops by providing assistance.
* Participate in U-Spatial events and lectures.

The Research and Innovation Office (RIO) and U-Spatial endorse a "work with flexibility" approach that offers a welcoming and flexible work environment where everyone is inspired to do their best. Work location options include working fully remote, partially remote, or entirely in the office and are based on the work of the position. Some on-site work may be necessary for certain positions, even those designated as fully remote.

This position has been designated as eligible for flexible work profile 3. Profile 3 is expected to typically work in the office/lab 1-2 days per week. Working remotely at least 3 days per week. Your dedicated office space will be in your remote work location.

U-Spatial management retains the right to modify flexible work arrangement agreements on a temporary or permanent basis for any reason at any time.

The Employer retains the right to change or assign other duties to this position.

Required Qualifications
HS degree or equivalent
Experience with GIS
Demonstrated interpersonal, presentation, facilitation, and communication skills

Preferred Qualifications
Understanding of spatial thinking concepts
Working knowledge of Esri's ArcGIS platform
Experience in Python scripting and spatial computing

With offices on both the Twin Cities and Duluth campuses, U-Spatial collaborates with a variety of departments and centers, creating new opportunities and synergies around spatial research, teaching, and service by supporting projects with application development and spatial analysis. This position is based on either the Duluth or Twin Cities campus. This position allows for a hybrid work option. Full-time remote work is not an option.

U-Spatial is a nationally recognized model that advances the fast-growing need for expertise in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), remote sensing, and spatial computing. The infrastructure eliminates duplication and fragmentation of resources by providing a framework of spatial data, equipment, and expertise. U-Spatial has supported over 3,000 researchers across every department and center at the University through the help desk, training, consulting, and events. U-Spatial has been integral to making the U of M one of the world's first "Spatial Universities".

Organizationally, U-Spatial is within Research Computing, an academic center within Research and Innovation Office (RIO). Research Computing brings together the diverse portfolio of research computing and data resources available at the University. Research Computing currently houses five collaborative units that provide research computing expertise, resources, training, and services across the University and beyond. These resources cover a broad range of research needs, from consultation and collaboration with domain experts, to hardware and software resources, to education and training in computational methods and technologies.

Pay Rate: $18.00/hour

Retirement plan options are available for Civil Service, Faculty, Labor-Represented, Professional & Administrative, and Temp Casual classifications. Learn more about retirement plans.

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

University of Minnesota, Duluth (UMD)

The University of Minnesota, Duluth (UMD) consistently ranks among the top Midwestern, regional universities in U.S. News and World Report's "America's Best Colleges" issue.

Overlooking Lake Superior, UMD provides an alternative to both large research and small liberal arts environments and attracts students looking for a personalized learning experience on a medium-sized campus of a major university. A firm liberal arts foundation anchors a variety of traditional degree programs, as well as professional and graduate students that draw on UMD's many research institutes and labs.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America's Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).