Research Professional 2 - Geospatial Specialist

The position duties include but are not limited to: 1) assisting polar researchers from other institutions in obtaining and manipulating imagery, 2) creating custom map products, 3) manipulating and editing geographic datasets, and 4) managing long-term mapping, and data storage projects.

This is a short-term position with the possibility of extension depending on the needs of the department.

Work Environment: In-person

Location:

• This position will be based at the Geospatial Center (PGC) in Saint Paul, MN
• 70% travel is required to Antarctica (October 2026-December 2026)

Schedule:

• 8:00am-4:30pm
• 40 hours per week

Visa Language: Please note, this position is not eligible for H-1B or Green Card sponsorship. This position does not offer a STEM OPT training program.

Required Qualifications:

• BA/BS degree in Remote Sensing, GIS or similar science/geography field plus at least two years of relevant experience, or a combination of education and relevant work experience to equal at least six years.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Advanced degree (Master's or higher) in Remote Sensing, GIS or similar science/geography field
• Ability to Physically Qualify for Antarctic Deployment for the United States Antarctic Program
• Proficiency in Remote Sensing software and analysis
• Able to work in a fast-paced environment and learn quickly
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple projects at once
• Excellent communication skills (oral and written) and a strong commitment to provide superior support to the polar science community
• Ability to work independently as well as with others

The Polar Geospatial Center (PGC) is a part of the School of Earth & Environmental
Sciences in the College of Science & Engineering. PGC provides geospatial support, mapping,and GIS/remote sensing solutions to researchers and logistics teams in the polar science community and worldwide. We collaborate with scientists to complete their research goals in a safe, timely, and efficient manner by providing a service which most groups do not have the resources or expertise to complete. Our goal is to introduce new, state-of-the-art techniques from the geospatial field to effectively solve problems in the least mapped places on Earth. PGC is supported by grants from the National Science Foundation, NASA, the US Forest Service, and the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency.

Pay Range: $64,480 per year; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment: 100% Appointment

Position Type: Civil-Service & Non-Faculty Labor Represented Staff

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
• Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

While our salary ranges provide a framework, it is important to note that most of the
time, the initial pay may not reach the maximum of the range. This approach ensures
that compensation reflects the value and unique contributions of each candidate while
maintaining equity within our organization. As part of our commitment to fair and
equitable compensation, please be aware that the salary offered to incoming candidates
will be based on their individual credentials and experience.

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.

Required application materials: Resume

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail jobcentr@umn.edu.

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.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

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