GCOOS Applications Specialist

Texas A&M University System • College Station, TX

7d

About The Position

The Gulf of America Coastal Ocean Observing System (GCOOS), the Gulf’s regional component of NOAA’s U.S. Integrated Ocean Observing System and part of the Department of Oceanography at Texas A&M University, seeks a professional to manage High Frequency Radar and underwater glider data services and develop ocean data products. The position supports data review, database management, and data product development for large-scale and real-time ocean data streams. Working with the GCOOS Data Management and Cyberinfrastructure (DMAC) Team, the Applications Specialist helps deliver reliable marine data services and applications for a diverse user community and an operational ocean observing system.

The role maintains and enhances the GANDALF underwater glider piloting tool and related database, as well as the High Frequency Radar dashboard and database. It also supports data validation and review, software and data pipeline maintenance, application and product development, partner collaboration, outreach, and training. Compensation is commensurate with the selected candidate’s education and experience. Travel is required as needed for conferences and outreach, including independent travel to other or remote locations by car or commercial airline. The position is contingent on continued grant or contract funding and satisfactory performance.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, GIS, Geography, Oceanography, Earth Sciences, Physics, Environmental Science, Engineering, or another related field.
• Four months of related experience in Information Technology, GIS, Geography, Oceanography, Earth Sciences, Physics, Environmental Science, Engineering, or another related field, including experience with Python programming.
• Ability to manage event setup and execution, which may involve lifting up to 20 pounds with assistance.
• Ability to travel as needed for conferences or outreach events.
• Ability to travel independently to other and/or remote locations by driving and/or flying on commercial airlines.

Nice To Haves

• Master’s degree in Data Science, Computer Science, GIS, Geography, Oceanography, Earth Sciences, Physics, Environmental Science, Engineering, or a related field.
• Two years of experience in Computer Science, Information Technology Management, GIS, Geography, Oceanography, Earth Sciences, Physics, Environmental Science, Engineering, or another related field; a Master’s degree is equivalent to two years of experience.
• Understanding of exploratory data analysis, data visualization, cloud computing, web application development and deployment, and scientific data sets.
• Experience with web server deployment and development, including Nginx, Tornado, or Apache.
• Proficiency in scientific writing, with preference for geologic and oceanographic writing.
• Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.
• Strong interpersonal and organizational skills.
• Working knowledge of office software and instructional programs.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and project management tools.
• Strong organizational and event management skills.
• Ability to interact positively and professionally with clients and staff, including groups of various sizes.

Responsibilities

• Maintain and enhance the GANDALF underwater glider piloting tool and its database, as well as the High Frequency Radar dashboard and database.
• Integrate new assets and develop associated data pipelines.
• Compile, organize, validate, and review oceanographic data and metadata from various sensors and platforms.
• Implement and maintain data collection, processing, and summarization workflows for field observations.
• Maintain and troubleshoot servers, infrastructure, software applications, and data pipelines to support reliable, up-to-date services.
• Analyze oceanographic data, conduct testing, and use summarized database results and scientific publications to inform improvements to data products and software applications.
• Design, develop, and maintain software applications and data services for specific projects, using Python at a minimum.
• Collaborate with governmental and nongovernmental partners and stakeholders to support project implementation and GCOOS initiatives.
• Represent GCOOS at relevant virtual and in-person meetings, conferences, and events, with travel as needed.
• Contribute to proposals for funding agencies.
• Develop and maintain training materials for internal and external users.

Benefits

• Medical, prescription drug, dental, vision, life and AD&D, flexible spending accounts, and long-term disability insurance; Texas A&M contributes to employee health and basic life premiums.
• 12–15 days of annual paid holidays.
• Up to eight hours of paid sick leave and at least eight hours of paid vacation each month.
• Automatic enrollment in the Teacher Retirement System of Texas.
• Free exercise programs and release time through Health and Wellness.
• Free LinkedIn Learning training, webinars, and limited financial support to attend conferences, workshops, and more.
• Educational release time and tuition assistance for completing a degree while employed at Texas A&M.
• Access to the Living Well program.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level