Geographic Information Systems Resource Assistant

Jump start your career with the Forest Service through the Resource Assistant Program. Work with our team to build your skills, network and make a difference!

Position Description:

Situated on the Allegheny Plateau in Pennsylvania, the Allegheny National Forest is a smaller but very active forest managed by the US Forest Service. This internship will provide the candidate with a working and learning experience mostly in the field of Geographic Information Systems (GIS), but also include the opportunity to work with other staff on forest such as Recreation, Engineering and Silviculture. This position requires a detailed oriented and self-motivated individual who is eager to learn the different aspects of the Forest Service. Working in GIS will lend you the opportunity to interact with most resource area on the forest and the experience will leave a lasting impression. The field of GIS is ever evolving. With the expansion and growth of WebGIS and ever evolving features to improve our mobile data collection workflows, there is never a dull moment.

Duties:

All the below duties are performed with the guidance of an experienced GIS Specialist.

Apply basic geographic and cartographic principles to support staff with the creation of map products.

Create increasingly more complex thematic map products and presentation materials using established processes.

Data management tasks such as creation and editing of geodatabases and feature classes.

Performs geospatial analysis following established protocols to support a variety of projects and resource areas.

Develop and maintain mobile data collection workflows and provide troubleshooting.

Develop and maintain WebGIS products such as web applications and dashboards.

Qualifications:
A candidate will have college level coursework in Geographic Information Systems. Proficient computer skills including Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Access). Entry level understanding of Geographic Information System's and principles, including knowledge on how to create, edit and maintain geodatabases, feature classes and other forms of spatial data. Basic knowledge of programing languages such as SQL, python or arcade preferred but not necessary. The candidate should have the ability to operate tablets and smartphones to aid in data collection and mapping.

Benefits:

$750/week

$1,000/month Housing Stipend

$50/month Commuter Stipend

Up to $2,750 available for Forest Service work travel, orientation, trainings, professional development opportunities that align with RA role and goals

2-year non-competitive Direct Hire Authority Eligibility

Option for health insurance coverage during full-term

*This is a 1099 position. Persons paid on a 1099 basis are independent contractors and are self-employed. Independent contractors are required to pay all self-employment taxes (Social Security & Medicare) as well as income tax. Independent contractors generally do not receive any type of employment benefits from the client. For more information please refer to www.irs.gov or talk with a tax professional.