Junior Specialist in Geospatial Analytics and Remote Sensing

The Valley Institute for Sustainability, Technology, and Agriculture (VISTA) is seeking an Industry Partnerships Coordinator to support VISTA, the Farms-Food-Future Innovation Initiative (F3) and regional testbeds. This role is central in facilitating research partnerships (i.e. events, field trials, projects, hackathons, etc.) between UC Merced and agricultural and technology industry partners, the ag community regionally and others. This is an excellent opportunity to work in the development of external relationships and to engage in industry-university partnerships at the cutting edge of engineering, computer and data science, technology, natural resources management, food systems and climate smart innovation. As a new organization building a new facility and serving this region, the successful applicant would have the opportunity to develop relationships, from student projects to multi-year grants.

The VISTA Team is seeking enthusiastic and qualified candidates to join us as a Junior Specialist in Earth Observation and Geospatial Analytics. This role provides a unique opportunity to engage deeply in innovative research that spans from data collection in the field to advanced data analysis. You will play an integral part in designing, planning, and executing studies focused on geospatial and environmental systems, contributing directly to impactful research outcomes.

Key Responsibilities:

* Data Collection and Management: Assist with field data collection, using advanced technologies such as GNSS GPS, RTK DGPS, and UAVs (including DJI M600, M300, and WingtraOne) to gather remote sensing data. You'll also collect soil, water, and plant samples to support environmental research projects.

* Data Analysis and Modeling: Employ GIS and image analysis software (e.g., ArcGIS/ENVI) software for remote sensing image processing, and leverage R and Python for statistical analysis. You will also contribute to machine learning-based and hydrologic modeling to derive meaningful insights from environmental data.

* Equipment Maintenance and Troubleshooting: Manage routine maintenance and troubleshoot state-of-the-art geospatial data collection equipment to ensure optimal performance in the field.

* Research Collaboration and Communication: Work closely with senior researchers, faculty, and external partners, sharing research findings through clear and effective written reports and presentations. Fostering team-based science is a core contribution, and you will liaise with student researchers, schedule and host meetings, and communicate research findings and progress to various stakeholders.

* Field Research and Safety: Conduct field research in challenging environmental settings, upholding all safety and ethical standards. Safety is a priority, and you'll lead by example, emphasizing field and laboratory safety practices in all aspects of your work.

Additional Duties:

* Operate motorboats, trailer equipment, and conduct field research in rugged environments. Completion of the Motorboat Operator Training Course (MOTC) and FAA Remote Pilot Certificate (Part 107) is required within six months (or if completed within the past two years).

* A valid California driver's license is required. You should be prepared for an alternate work schedule that may include extended days, weekends, and occasional travel. This is an exempt, on-site position.

* Bachelor's degree in Environmental Science/Engineering, Earth Science, Computer Science, Agricultural Engineering, or a related field.

* Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with a commitment to innovative solutions for complex research challenges.

* Proficiency in written, verbal, and visual communication, particularly in presenting research findings and recommendations.

* Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team.

* Competence with digital tools, including GIS, Microsoft Word and Excel.

* Capability to work outdoors in varying environmental conditions (heat, cold) and exercise sound judgment.

* 1-2 years of experience in applied geospatial research, ideally in environmental system applications.

* Familiarity with geospatial technologies, including drones, sensors, and automation systems.

* Experience with soil sampling, plant science, or water quality fieldwork.

* Knowledge of geospatial, IoT, and AI technologies relevant to environmental research.

* Proficiency in programming languages such as Python or R.

* FAA Remote Pilot Certificate (Part 107

• 3 required (contact information only)

* 3 required (contact information only)

Please list three names of potential references and contact information.

The University of California, Merced, is the newest of the University of California system's 10 campuses. With over 9,000 undergraduate and graduate students (https://cie.ucmerced.edu/analytics-hub/student-statistics), UC Merced is committed to interdisciplinary excellence in research and teaching as well as to diversity, equity and inclusion. Ranked as one of the best public universities in the nation by U.S. News and World Report, UC Merced provides outstanding educational opportunities to highly qualified students from the heart of California, the nation, and abroad. The campus has special connections to nearby Yosemite National Park; is on the cutting edge of sustainability in construction and design; and supports the economic development of Central California. The Merced 2020 Project doubled the physical capacity of the campus, and enhanced academic distinction, student success, and research excellence (https://merced2020.ucmerced.edu/).

The University of California, Merced is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer advancing inclusive excellence. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected categories covered by the UC nondiscrimination policy.

Please refer to the University of California's Affirmative Action Policy and the University of California's Anti-Discrimination Policy.

As a University employee, you will be required to comply with all applicable University policies and/or collective bargaining agreements, as may be amended from time to time. Federal, state, or local government directives may impose additional requirements. This includes the University of California Policy on Vaccination Programs: https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/5000695/VaccinationProgramsPolicy.