Data Specialist

Job Summary:

The Data Specialist is dedicated to the Bonobo & Congo Biodiversity Initiative (BCBI), the ZSM’s bonobo conservation program in the Salonga National Park, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).  The specialist assists the BCBI Director, Field Site Coordinator, and research team to achieve the technical aspects of the BCBI program with an emphasis on maintaining research and other field data, data quality control, basic GIS and mapping, assistance with data analyses, and report/grant preparation.  The full-time position is based in Milwaukee with periodic work in the DRC.

Duties:

1. Serve as BCBI’s data specialist by organizing, entering, and verifying data in various formats and preparing data for analysis.
2. Conduct analyses independently or conjointly with research team members as directed.
3. Maintain a GIS-mapping system/database and perform basic GIS functions and mapping.
4. Help prepare project reports and scientific publications.
5. Assist with reporting to funding agencies and other support entities.
6. Support grant application and reporting processes.
7. Conduct necessary bibliographic searches and maintain project bibliography.
8. Provide technical and logistical support for field missions including equipment procurement and testing and field equipment inventories.
9. Organize and maintain field mission photos and videos.
10. Regularly update and provide program content/photos for articles, press releases, social media, and the project website.
11. Provide mission support and field assistance in DRC, as needed.
12. Provide technical backup to team to solve computer/equipment issues.
13. Participate in program promotion – talks, interviews, etc. – as needed.

Qualifications:

Candidates shall possess at least three years of experience in data management/analysis and three years in basic GIS (Esri software).  The candidate should have practical experience in wildlife/botanical surveys, Distance analyses preferred (or similar analytical tools).  She/he should display competency in managing large amounts of scientific data (attention to detail), have sound knowledge of analytical methods, and have experience with standard statistical software.  She/he must have excellent writing and verbal skills and be able to write/edit reports for publications.  The candidate should be adept at learning new software and troubleshooting technical issues.  Candidate must be able to take directions yet work independently, communicate effectively to help solve problems with field team members (often advising/assisting remotely), and adapt to changing conditions/schedules as the project demands.  As a team member, the candidate must be highly motivated, committed to realizing the BCBI’s goals.  The applicant must have the ability to work in a remote tropical forest setting – typical to surveys and wilderness camping.

The candidate must minimally hold a master’s degree in conservation biology, natural resource management or a related field.  The candidate should have at least three years of work experience in a related field.  She/he must possess demonstrable skills in research and basic statistical analyses.  Field experience in an undeveloped country (or region) is desirable.  French language proficiency is highly desirable.

Other Qualifications:

• Must have vehicle, driver’s license, and current auto insurance.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs.
• Ability to operate a computer keyboard, mouse and to handle office equipment.
• Ability to maintain good attendance is a condition of employment and a function of this position.

To Apply:

1. Applicants should email a cover letter, CV/resume, and the names, email addresses and telephone numbers of three professional references to conservation@zoosociety.org by January 7, 2019.  Your letter should describe your interest in the position and how your experience/qualifications match the position description and salary requirements (salary commensurate with experience).  Please address your letter to:  Dr. Gay Edwards Reinartz, Director, Bonobo and Congo Biodiversity Initiative/Conservation Coordinator, Zoological Society of Milwaukee, 10005 W. Bluemound Road, Milwaukee, WI 53226-4383.
2. Please include your last name on each filename.
3. No telephone calls, please