RESEARCH ASSOCIATE & GIS SPECIALIST
About The Position
The San Diego Natural History Museum (The Nat) was founded by amateur naturalists in 1874 and has played a major role in the conservation of our region. The Museum recently celebrated its 150th anniversary and completed a strategic plan focused on encouraging a love for nature, levering science and collections for conservation, and using our own voice to be here for nature. The Research Associate & GIS Specialist will be responsible for collecting and analyzing GIS data, producing project maps and reports, conducting literature reviews, and supporting community outreach and events related to dune and canyon Nature-based Solutions (NbS) for coastal resilience.
Requirements
- Strong foundation in GIS, geography, environmental science, ecology, climatology, urban planning, natural resource management, or a related field (Bachelor’s degree preferred).
- Advanced proficiency with Esri software, including ArcGIS Pro, ArcGIS Online, Spatial Analyst, and Field Maps, to manage file geodatabases and produce publication-quality mapping outputs.
- Experience conducting landscape-scale and parcel-level spatial analyses involving habitat suitability, land use, hydrology, biodiversity, or climate resilience datasets.
- Ability to synthesize and organize scientific literature and technical data into clear maps, reports, and decision-support tools for both technical and community audiences.
- Solutions-oriented mindset with a proven ability to problem-solve and manage workload independently.
- Excellent organization and time management skills.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills.
- At least two years of college experience
- Expertise with Esri software products
- Knowledge of San Diego County’s unique biodiversity, socioeconomic factors, and climate risks
Nice To Haves
- Bachelor’s degree in GIS, geography, environmental science, ecology, climatology, urban planning, natural resource management, or a related field
- Experience conducting fieldwork, including site assessments, ecological monitoring, data collection, and adherence to established field safety protocols
Responsibilities
- Collecting and Analyzing GIS Data
- Project Mapping and Reporting
- Conducting Literature Reviews
- Assisting with Community Outreach and Events
- Assisting with Community Outreach and Events
- Assist in maintaining an organized, well-functioning shared office environment and digital file systems, including consistent folder naming, version control, and documentation.
- Support other project staff and partners with set up and break down for events.
- Provide other staff with GIS analysis and mapping support, as needed and approved by Supervisor.
Benefits
- Employees enjoy free admission into all of Balboa Park’s museums as well as free admission to the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Part-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
No Education Listed
