Director, Texas Spatial Reference Center (TSRC)

Texas A&M University System•Corpus Christi, TX

5d•$120,000•Hybrid

About The Position

TAMU-CC is a dynamic university designated as both a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) and Minority-Serving Institution (MSI) with approximately 11,000 students from 47 states and 54 foreign nations. We employ over 1,400 full-time and 2,000 part-time Islanders (including students/GAs). The University attracts highly talented faculty and staff and offers an array of undergraduate and graduate degrees, including doctoral programs. As a member of the Texas A&M University System, TAMU-CC benefits from a range of resources, increased visibility and influence, and opportunities to collaborate in mutually beneficial ways with peers across member institutions and associated agencies. TAMU-CC’s beautiful campus is located on a 240-acre island on Corpus Christi Bay and was ranked #1 College by the Sea by Best College Reviews. Our natural setting is enhanced by its modern, attractive, and state-of-the-art classroom buildings and support facilities. Learn more information here! PURPOSE The Conrad Blucher Institute for Surveying and Science at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi is seeking a visionary leader to serve as Director of the Texas Spatial Reference Center (TSRC). The Director will provide strategic leadership for TSRC, ensuring Texas is prepared for the National Spatial Reference System modernization while developing sustainable funding mechanisms to support the Center. Who We Are Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi (TAMU-CC) is a vibrant, Hispanic and Minority Serving Institution that has attained Carnegie R2 status as a doctoral university with high research activity. TAMU-CC is a regional university that proudly provides a solid academic reputation, renowned faculty, and highly rated degree programs since 1947. The university has a heritage of teaching excellence with innovation in research and community engagement as part of the distinguished Texas A&M System. TAMU-CC is the only university in the nation located on its own island and is at the heart of the Texas Gulf Coast. With palm tree lined pathways throughout the campus, nearby natural wetlands, a scenic hike-and-bike trail and pristine views of the beach and bays, TAMU-CC is a first-choice institution. The Conrad Blucher Institute for Surveying and Science (CBI) at TAMU-CC is a collaborative research environment utilizing geospatial science to support data driven decision making. The institute’s research laboratories develop innovative solutions informed by precise measurements honoring the legacy of the Blucher family and their commitment to surveying and science. CBI pushes the boundaries of geospatial science by applying cutting edge technologies to map, measure, collect and manage big data used to predict our physical environment.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Geodesy, Geomatics, Surveying Engineering, Geophysics, or closely related field.
Ten (10) years of related work experience to include five (5) years of demonstrated experience in leadership, project management, or supervisory roles.
Demonstrated experience with geodetic reference systems, coordinate transformations, and GNSS technologies.
Proven track record of securing and managing external funding from federal, state, or private sources.
Strong understanding of NGS programs, tools, and the National Spatial Reference System modernization.
Excellent written and oral communication skills with ability to present complex geodetic concepts to various audiences.
Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks, and deliver results in a timely manner.
Assess and prioritize multiple tasks and projects in a fast-paced office environment, meeting deadlines and project requirements.
Maintain a valid Drivers License.
Strong strategic planning and organizational leadership skills.
Demonstrated ability to develop and maintain relationships with government agencies, professional organizations, and industry partners.
Knowledge of federal and state funding mechanisms for research and geospatial infrastructure.
Proficiency with geodetic software, GNSS processing tools, and geospatial data management systems.
Excellent project management and organization skills.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Intermediate proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
Exceptional attention to detail.
Critical thinking and proactive problem solving.
Ability to either work in a team environment or independently with minimal guidance.
Ability to manage and prioritize tasks, resources, and time effectively.
Ability to present information clearly and concisely.
Ability to perform effectively under conditions of fluctuating workload and competing deadlines.
Genuine care for workplace wellbeing including what is physical and tangible and those unseen contributions that facilitate an efficient and effective work environment.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree or higher in Geodesy, Geomatics, Surveying Engineering, Geophysics, or closely related field.
Texas Registered Professional Land Surveyor (RPLS) license or eligibility for licensure.
Direct experience working with National Geodetic Survey programs and initiatives.
Experience with height modernization programs, gravimetric geoid modeling, or vertical datum development.
Established relationships with Texas surveying and engineering professional communities.
Experience with legislative advocacy or policy development related to geospatial infrastructure.
Record of scholarly publication in geodesy or geospatial science.
Experience providing college-level instruction or professional continuing education.
Familiarity with Texas coastal dynamics, subsidence issues, and sea level monitoring.
Experience planning and operating community engagement and outreach events.

Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership and NSRS Modernization: 35%
Provide strategic vision and leadership for the Texas Spatial Reference Center, positioning it as the premier state resource for geodetic and geospatial reference systems.
Coordinate with NGS, NOAA, the Texas General Land Office, Texas Department of Transportation, and other federal and state agencies on geodetic modernization initiatives.
Oversee the implementation and maintenance of the Texas State Plane Coordinate System, including the 50 low-distortion projection zones approved by NGS.
Develop and execute strategic plans that align TSRC activities with national geodetic modernization timelines and Texas stakeholder needs.
Represent TSRC at conferences, professional society meetings, and stakeholder forums which may require the use of rental or university vehicles for travel.
Funding Development: 25%
Develop and implement strategies to secure permanent, sustainable funding for TSRC operations, including state appropriations, federal grants, and legislative support.
Identify, pursue, and manage external funding opportunities from federal agencies, state agencies, and private sector partners.
Develop revenue-generating services and programs, including training, consulting, data services, and technical assistance to government agencies and private sector clients.
Build and maintain relationships with state agency leadership and industry partners to advocate TSRC funding and initiatives.
Prepare and submit grant proposals, manage awarded projects, and ensure compliance with all sponsor requirements.
Develop fee-for-service models and contractual agreements for geodetic services and technical support.
Research and Technical Operations: 20%
Oversee geodetic data collection, processing, and quality assurance for Texas geodetic infrastructure.
Lead investigations into elevation, geodetic, and vertical datums affecting Texas, including subsidence monitoring and sea level change impacts.
Contribute to the preparation of research proposals, technical reports, and scientific publications.
Stay current with developments in geodetic science, GNSS technology, and spatial reference system methodologies.
Outreach, Education, and Stakeholder Engagement: 15%
Develop and deliver educational programs, workshops, and training for Texas surveyors, engineers, GIS professionals, and government agencies on NSRS modernization and datum transitions.
Create continuing education unit content and professional development opportunities for the Texas surveying and geospatial community.
Serve as primary liaison between Texas stakeholders and NGS during the NSRS modernization transition.
Develop and maintain outreach materials, technical bulletins, and web resources to support stakeholder adoption of modernized reference systems.
Administration and Leadership: 5%
Supervise and mentor TSRC staff, students, and affiliated researchers.
Manage project timelines, budgets, and resources to ensure successful completion of research and operational objectives.
Communicate effectively with CBI Executive Director, university administration, and external stakeholders on TSRC activities and strategic direction.
Other duties as assigned.

Benefits

Medical $0 - $30 per month for Employee Only coverage after university contribution ($920 value).
Up to 83% of premium covered by the university: Employee and Spouse Employee and Children Employee and Family coverage
Dental & Vision
Life Insurance, Accidental D&D, Long Term Disability, Flexible Spending Account and Day Care Spending Account
DUAL CAREER PARTNER PROGRAM
ON-CAMPUS WELLNESS OPPORTUNITIES
Work Life Solutions: Counseling, Work Life Assistance, Financial Resources, and Legal Resources
Tuition Benefits: Public Loan Forgiveness Book scholarships 100% tuition coverage for up to 18 credit hours per fiscal year (other rules may apply).
Retirement: Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS) or Optional Retirement Plan (ORP)
Voluntary Tax Deferred Account/Deferred Compensation Plan
Time Off: 8+ hours of vacation paid time off every month. 8 hours of sick leave time off every month. 8 hours of paid time off for Birthday leave. 12-15 paid holidays each year.