Coastal Biodiversity Data Management Specialist

$55,000 - $65,000/Yr

Dept Conservation & Recreation - Richmond, VA

Full-time - Mid Level

Richmond, VA

About the position

The Coastal Biodiversity Data Management Specialist is a full-time position within the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation, specifically in the Natural Heritage Division. This role focuses on processing, analyzing, and managing biodiversity data related to rare plants, animals, and significant ecological sites in Virginia's coastal zone. The specialist will work closely with a team of spatial ecologists and GIS specialists to ensure data quality and support conservation efforts through the proprietary database management system, Biotics.

Responsibilities

• Process and manage biodiversity data from the Virginia coastal zone.
• Integrate data from field, literature, and partner sources into the Biotics database.
• Collaborate with DCR staff and partners to ensure accurate data for conservation decisions.
• Assist the Data Manager in maintaining Biotics and ensuring data quality.
• Train staff on natural heritage methodologies and Biotics use.
• Provide technical support to staff in using ArcGIS Online and mobile applications for data collection.
• Fulfill various database, mapping, and GIS analysis requests as needed.
• Collaborate in the preparation of proposals, reports, and contract deliverables.

Requirements

• Knowledge of general principles of ecology and conservation biology.
• Proficiency in GIS software and spatial analysis.
• Experience in computer operations and database management.
• Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
• Excellent organizational and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Nice-to-haves

• Proficiency in ArcGIS Pro and ArcGIS Online.
• Experience with MS Access and Excel.
• Ability to write code in Python or R statistical software.
• Experience with rare species and natural communities data.
• Work experience with natural heritage programs.
• Proficiency in using Biotics.