How to Apply
Applications are welcomed and encouraged from all qualified individuals regardless of background and identity. To apply, please complete the application on the U-M Careers site. A one-page cover letter is required for consideration for this position and should be attached as the first page of your resume. The cover letter should address your specific interest in the position and outline your skills and experience that directly relate to this position.
To be considered for the intermediate level position, please submit a 1-2 page research statement detailing your experience conducting independent research, with preference to relevant work (e.g., Python coding, software use / development). Demonstrated skills in data science such as data analyses, visualization, quality control, machine learning, and management of large datasets should be mentioned in the research statement and/or cover letter, if applicable.
Job Summary
The Cooperative Institute for Great Lakes Research (CIGLR) is seeking an individual to join our team as an Environmental Data Specialist. This role will focus on the design and development of observing networks for the Great Lakes region, and the maintenance and enhancement of scientific software and applications. The individual will work closely with CIGLR, partners affiliated with the Great Lakes Observing System (GLOS), and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Great Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory (NOAA GLERL) to support research efforts and data management. This role will report directly to Dr. Dani Jones.
This position is open only to US Citizens or permanent residents due to federal security clearance required for access to NOAA GLERL facilities and resources.
Term Limited Appointment: This is a one-year term limited appointment, with an opportunity for extension based on funding and performance.
Mission Statement
At the University of Michigan School for Environment and Sustainability (SEAS), we are at the forefront of building a more sustainable and just world for all by transforming the impact of higher education and reimagining the future. We are advancing action through innovation, research, education and engagement in society, and developing leaders who are empowered to halt the climate crisis and create an environmentally sound future for generations to come.
To learn more about SEAS and our values, please visit our website at https://seas.umich.edu/about/seas-values.
Who We Are
Cooperative Institute for Great Lakes Research (CIGLR), is part of the University of Michigan's School for Environment and Sustainability (SEAS) located in Ann Arbor, Michigan. CIGLR is a collaboration between the University of Michigan and NOAA that brings together experts from academia and government research labs to address pressing problems facing the Great Lakes region.
Why Work at Michigan?
In addition to a career filled with purpose and opportunity, The University of Michigan offers a comprehensive benefits package to help you stay well, protect yourself and your family and plan for a secure future. Benefits include:
- Generous time off
- A retirement plan that provides two-for-one matching contributions with immediate vesting
- Many choices for comprehensive health insurance
- Life insurance
- Long-term disability coverage
- Flexible spending accounts for healthcare and dependent care expenses
Responsibilities*
In collaboration with CIGLR, GLOS, and NOAA GLERL scientists, you will:
- Use data-driven tools to design and develop advanced observing networks for the Great Lakes region.
- Implement and maintain scientific software solutions, ensuring robust and reproducible data processing workflows.
- Perform data management for ecological monitoring programs, buoy systems, and autonomous vehicles, including data archiving (e.g., National Centers for Environmental Information, NCEI).
- Maintain web-based applications, including dynamically updated real-time data visualizations and web pages.
- Conduct data visualization, analyses, and quality control processes.
- Collaborate with scientists and staff on the preparation of scientific manuscripts and presentations, as well as on best practices for data management and software development.
Required Qualifications*
- A bachelor's degree or higher in computer science, data science, natural sciences, engineering, or a related field. Master's degree preferred.
- At least 1 year of related experience in a professional setting.
- Experience working with large datasets in open-source software environments, particularly Python. Experience with data archival is preferred.
- Demonstrated experience in using or developing software systems for scientific applications, particularly for analyses, visualization, and/or quality control. Experience with geospatial data is also preferred.
- Coursework or practical experience with computational and machine learning packages (e.g., PyTorch, Tensorflow).
- Experience with cloud-based database management and data-driven web pages using APIs.
Modes of Work
You will spend the majority of time at NOAA's Great Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory (GLERL) in Ann Arbor. Our team offers flexible work styles, such as flexible hours and/or flexible workplace (with approved agreements in place), however this position is not eligible for fully remote work. In addition to your primary work location at GLERL, you will also have access to CIGLR's shared office space in the Dana Building on the University of Michigan's central campus.
Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes.
Additional Information
This position may be filled at either the Applications Programmer/Analyst Associate or Intermediate level, depending on the candidate's experience. The Associate level is a nonexempt appointment, while the Intermediate level is exempt.
Salary will be determined based on experience.
Application Deadline
Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days. This job may be removed from posting boards and filled any time after the minimum posting period has ended. Applications will be reviewed as received throughout the posting period and continue until the position is filled.
U-M EEO Statement
The University of Michigan is an equal employment opportunity employer.