Job Description: Spatial Data Analyst

Background

Based out of Vancouver Island University in the Coastal Hydrology Research Lab, the Spatial Data Analyst will work on research projects funded by The Provincial Government, Regional Districts and NGOs. One of the labs primary goals is to establish research-focused observation networks in remote areas of Coastal BC to gain a better understanding of variation in hydrology and climate, and help inform natural resource management decision making.

Position Description

The primary role of this position will be to support acquisition of LiDAR and related field data and conduct geospatial analysis. Work will be a combination of office and field across all seasons. The successful applicant will focus efforts on remote sensing for the snow program in the CHRL, utilizing LiDAR data from fixed-wing piloted planes and remotely piloted aircraft systems (RPAS) i.e. drones. A primary role will be to develop and lead the RPAS-based LiDAR program at the CHRL, while working with current lab members and partners.

Essential Skills and Experience

-Undergraduate degree in Forestry, Physical Geography, Environmental Science, Biology, Natural Resource Management, Engineering, GeoScience, Computer Programming or related field

-demonstrated geospatial/GIS analyst experience

-self starter, able to work independently but also with a team

-well organized, high attention to detail

-possess or eligible to obtain Canadian Basic Operations drone Pilot Certificate

-computer proficiency (MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access, ArcGIS, QGIS)

-enthusiastic attitude, strong work ethic and intuitive problem-solving skills

-class 5 Driver’s License

-intermediate ski and/or snowboard ability

-willingness and ability to perform strenuous field work in all weather conditions

Preferred Skills and Experience

-Graduate degree in hydrology, geomorphology, snow hydrology, geospatial analysis, meteorology, climatology, glaciology or related field

-experience using RPAS for LiDAR or structure-from-motion surveys, including flight planning, data acquisition and processing

-experience processing and analyzing LiDAR data

-intermediate to advanced programming experience using R and/or Python or demonstrated ability using other programming language

-experience using GNSS survey equipment and processing associated data

-avalanche training (AST1/AST2, Level 1 Ops)

-demonstrated experience travelling in avalanche terrain by ski or snowboard

-experience snowmobiling and completion of a Worksafe snowmobile course

-proficiency driving 4-wheel drive vehicles

-level 1 first aid or willingness to obtain.

Work conditions, wages and benefits

This position will require significant field work, with most of it occurring during the winter and spring months. Field campaigns are usually less than 5 days, but can be longer on occasion and may occur over weekends. Office and lab work is preferred to be on campus at VIU, with potential for remote work up to 2 days per week. Pay is $25 to $35/hr (35hrs/week) depending on education and experience. VIU also offers full benefits and payment into the Municipal Pension Program. This position will be for 3 years with possibility of extension depending on funding.

Please provide a resume and cover letter to Bill.Floyd@viu.ca. We are accepting applications until Feb 16, 2024. Start date will be as soon as possible, preferably by the middle of March 2024.