Coastal Biodiversity Data Management Specialist

Title: Coastal Biodiversity Data Management Specialist

State Role Title: Environmental Specialist I

Hiring Range: $55,000 - $65,000

Pay Band:

Agency: Dept Conservation & Recreation

Location: Office

Agency Website: www.dcr.virginia.gov

Recruitment Type: General Public - G

Job Duties

This position is federally funded through December 31, 2027. 

The Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation is seeking applicants to fill the full-time, classified position of Coastal Biodiversity Data Management Specialist in the Natural Heritage Division. As a member of a team of spatial ecologists, conservation planners, and GIS specialists in the Information Management section of the award-winning Virginia Natural Heritage Program (VNHP), this position reports directly to the Data Manager and will be responsible primarily for the processing of backlogged data from the Virginia coastal zone. Specifically, this work involves processing, analyzing, and managing biodiversity data on Natural Heritage Resources (NHR) by integrating data from field, literature, and partner sources into the proprietary database management system called Biotics. NHR are rare plants and animals, exemplary natural communities, and ecologically significant sites, and their known locations and habitats are mapped in Biotics. These data, along with associated information on conservation status, rarity, and quality, are used in the development of conservation datasets and tools that are used internally, shared with partners, and/or publicly shared, to inform the conservation of Virginia’s most significant elements of biodiversity. This work requires daily collaboration with DCR staff, and partners, to ensure accurate data are the basis for conservation decisions.

The Coastal Biodiversity Data Management Specialist collaborates with other section staff to assist the Data Manager in maintaining Biotics; ensuring data quality; training staff on natural heritage methodologies and Biotics use; providing technical support to staff; supporting staff in use of ArcGIS Online and mobile applications for data collection and integration; and in providing guidance in the development of data, information, and decision-making tools. This position is responsible for technical assistance to disseminate NHR data internally and externally. This position is also responsible for fulfilling various database, mapping, and GIS analysis requests as deemed necessary by management. This position is one of several that provides GIS assistance, general training, and problem-solving assistance to VNHP staff. The incumbent will collaborate in the preparation of proposals, reports, contract deliverables, and products, including those to be served via online applications.

Minimum Qualifications

• Knowledge of general principles of ecology and conservation biology
• Knowledge of the principles of GIS and proficiency in use of GIS software
• Demonstrated experience in spatial analysis
• Knowledge and skills in computer operations and database management
• Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing
• Excellent organizational and problem-solving skills
• Must be able to work independently and as part of a team.

Additional Considerations

• Proficiency in spatial analysis
• Proficiency in use of ArcGIS Pro, ArcGIS Online, and other ESRI software
• Proficiency in use of MS Access and Excel
• Ability to write code in Python, R statistical software, or other programming languages
• Ability to provide technical support and training for spatial software, including ESRI products
• Experience with rare species, natural communities, or ecosystems data
• Work experience with natural heritage programs
• Proficiency in use of Biotics

Special Instructions

You will be provided a confirmation of receipt when your application and/or résumé is submitted successfully. Please refer to “Your Application” in your account to check the status of your application for this position.

You will be provided a confirmation of receipt when your application and/or résumé is submitted successfully. Please refer to “Your Application” in your account to check the status of your application for this position.
You will be provided a confirmation of receipt when your application and/or résumé is submitted successfully. Please refer to “Your Application” in your account to check the status of your application for this position.

A valid State Driver's License is required to operate a state vehicle or if operating a personal vehicle while conducting business on behalf of the agency.

DCR is committed to the principles of equal employment opportunity and the highest ideals of diversity, equity, and inclusion. We believe that our greatest strength lies in the individual differences, experiences, and skillsets that our employees bring to the table. Because of this, we strongly encourage applications from all walks of life, and we welcome all contributions in terms of age, beliefs, color, culture, disability, education, ethnicity, gender identity/expression, language, national origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, and veteran’s status.

Selected candidate(s) will need to complete the I-9 Employment Eligibility Verification Form. DCR participates in E-Verify.

Submission of an online application is required for this position. DCR does not accept applications, resumes, cover letters, etc. for this vacancy in any other format. When applying for jobs, please ensure your online application or resume is complete with duties and skills associated with your work experience.

Minorities, individuals with disabilities, veterans, and people with National Service experience are encouraged to apply. EEO/AA/TT

Contact Information

Name: Laura Nelson

Phone: n/a

Email: n/a

In support of the Commonwealth’s commitment to inclusion, we are encouraging individuals with disabilities to apply through the Commonwealth Alternative Hiring Process. To be considered for this opportunity, applicants will need to provide their AHP Letter (formerly COD) provided by the Department for Aging & Rehabilitative Services (DARS), or the Department for the Blind & Vision Impaired (DBVI). Service-Connected Veterans are encouraged to answer Veteran status questions and submit their disability documentation, if applicable, to DARS/DBVI to get their AHP Letter. Requesting an AHP Letter can be found at AHP Letter or by calling DARS at 800-552-5019.

Note: Applicants who received a Certificate of Disability from DARS or DBVI dated between April 1, 2022- February 29, 2024, can still use that COD as applicable documentation for the Alternative Hiring Process.