Research Associate 3, 4, or 5

Louisiana State University

1d

About The Position

This position supports the Louisiana Geological Survey's research and mapping mission through cartographic production, geographic information systems (GIS) data development, and spatial data analysis. The Research Associate will be responsible for assisting in creating geologic quadrangle maps, developing and maintaining spatial databases, conducting GPS/GNSS field data collection, and coordinating the production of derivative GIS and cartographic products. This position supports federal USGS StateMap program requirements, Louisiana state geological mapping initiatives, and research projects related to energy resources, environmental studies, and geologic hazards. The candidate will combine technical knowledge in GIS technologies with cartographic skills to produce maps and spatial data products.

Requirements

• Master’s degree in a related field or a bachelor’s degree in a related field and two years of related experience in Geography, Geology, Geomatics, GIS, Cartography, or closely related field.
• Professional experience in GIS data development, cartographic production, and spatial data analysis.
• Demonstrated proficiency with Esri ArcGIS software suite (ArcGIS Pro, ArcMap).
• Experience creating maps and managing spatial databases.

Nice To Haves

• Master's degree and one year related experience in Geography with GIS emphasis, Geology, Geomatics, Cartography, or closely related field.
• Experience with geologic mapping and USGS standards; proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop) for cartographic finishing; experience with web mapping platforms (ArcGIS Online, QGIS, Leaflet); knowledge of Louisiana geology and energy industry; experience with pipeline mapping or infrastructure GIS; aerial/drone imagery processing; experience with coordinate systems and projections used in Louisiana; publication record with cartographic products.
• Field experience with GPS/GNSS data collection equipment.
• GISP (GIS Professional) certification.

Responsibilities

• Help create geologic quadrangle maps for USGS StateMap programs and Louisiana state mapping initiatives. Help develop map layouts, design legends, apply appropriate symbology, and ensure compliance with USGS standards and specifications. Work to produce derivative maps including surface geology, structure contour maps, and thematic compilations. (35%)
• Work with supervisors to help design, develop, and maintain spatial databases for geologic, geophysical, and energy-related data. Assist in creating and editing feature classes, geodatabases, and spatial datasets. Perform spatial analysis, data validation, and quality control. Develop metadata documentation following FGDC and ISO standards. (25%)
• Conduct field surveys using global navigation satellite systems (GNSS) equipment to collect spatial data for geologic features, infrastructure mapping (pipelines, wells), and ground control points. Process GPS data, perform differential corrections, and integrate field data into GIS databases. Support geologists and other researchers with field mapping technology. (10%)
• Help develop and maintain web-based GIS applications and interactive maps for public data dissemination. Assist in creating online map services, story maps, and data viewers. Help manage LGS website map galleries and digital data repositories. Ensure accessibility and usability of online spatial data resources. (10%)
• Provide GIS and cartographic support for research projects including coastal studies, pipeline mapping, geologic hazards assessment, and energy resource investigations. Collaborate with geologists, environmental scientists, and external partners on spatial data analysis and visualization. Prepare maps and figures for scientific publications and technical reports. (10%)
• Other duties as assigned. (10%)

Benefits

• LSU offers outstanding benefits to eligible employees and their dependents including health, life, dental, and vision insurance; flexible spending accounts; retirement options; various leave options; paid holidays; wellness benefits; tuition exemption for qualified positions; training and development opportunities; employee discounts; and more!

What This Job Offers

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