Research Associate 4 - Cartographer

Louisiana State University

9d

About The Position

This position supports the Louisiana Geological Survey's mission of geological research and applications for the State of Louisiana through cartographic production, GIS data development, spatial data analysis, and preservation of these information sets. The Cartographer (Research Associate 4) is responsible for producing final draft geologic maps and charts, managing spatial databases, collecting GPS/GNSS field data, providing cartographic and spatial data information to government agencies and the general public, and maintaining LGS’s cartographic, geographic, and GIS data sets and archives. The Cartographer works closely with staff scientists supporting federal and state initiatives in geologic mapping and evaluation of energy resources and earth materials, in assessment and monitoring of environmental geosystems and geologic hazards, and in communication of geological information according to professional and governmental standards.

Requirements

• Master’s degree in a related field and two years of related experience or a bachelor’s degree in a related field and four years of related experience in Geology, Geography (Geomorphology/Cartography emphasis), Cartography, GIS, 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.
• Proficiency with common cartographic projections and geographic coordinate systems.

Nice To Haves

• Master's and two (2) or more years in Geology, Geography (Geomorphology/Cartography emphasis), Cartography, GIS, or 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); 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.
• Geologic or Geomorphic field-based mapping (performed by the applicant) as an essential component of the Senior thesis, Master’s thesis, or dissertation.
• GISP certified.

Responsibilities

• Produce working and final draft geologic maps and charts for federal and state surface and subsurface geologic mapping programs supported by agencies such as the US Dept of the Interior and the Louisiana Dept of Conservation & Energy. Ensure that deliverables meet agency and professional cartographic standards and assist with the preparation and submission of cartography and related deliverables to sponsors. Maintain internet linkage between LGS and sponsor web resources, such as USGS’s NGMDB (National Geologic Map Database), GeMS database, and Geolex. (35%)
• Design, develop, and maintain spatial databases for geologic, geophysical, and energy-related data. Create and edit feature classes, geodatabases, and spatial datasets. Perform spatial analysis, data validation, and quality control. Develop metadata documentation following FGDC and ISO standards. (25%)
• Plan and perform 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%)
• Develop and maintain web-based GIS applications and interactive maps for public data dissemination. 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