Data Manager Position at Utah State University

Join our team for long-term studies of the forests of Utah and the Western United States. We are a group of forest ecologists exploring forest changes and fire impact in Utah, California, and Washington. Our collaborations include Utah State agencies and Smithsonian-affiliated scientists worldwide. Every summer, we assess over 100,000 trees and collect data on snags, logs, shrubs, seedlings, soil nutrients, fuels, environmental DNA, and microclimate to predict forest changes over time.

Job Responsibilities

We are looking for a dedicated Data Manager to join our team. The successful candidate will ensure consistent forest data over time, working with existing MySQL databases and a substantial collection of code, scripts, and procedures. Responsibilities include:

• Using and extending existing code for data preparation and field crew instructions.
• Handling GIS data for the three study sites.
• Documenting procedures and regularly backing up data.

Minimum Qualifications

• Proficient in one programming language.
• Desire and ability to learn MySQL, R, and ArcGIS.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with SQL, R, and ArcGIS.
• Familiarity with cloud-based IT services.
• Experience in website implementation.
• Knowledge of Western woodland trees and shrubs.

Required Documents

Along with the online application, please attach the following:

• Resume (upload at the start of your application in the Candidate Profile under “Resume/CV”).
• Unofficial transcripts (upload at the start of your application in the Candidate Profile under "Documents 1-10").
• Cover letter (type/paste at the end of your application).

Document size must not exceed 10 MB.

Advertised Salary

$19.00 to $25.00 per hour, depending on experience.

ADA Information

Employees typically work indoors and are protected from weather and contaminants but may experience occasional temperature changes. The position requires regular sitting and involves repetitive hand motions.

College Highlights

The S.J. & Jessie E. Quinney College of Natural Resources (QCNR) at Utah State University is nationally and internationally recognized for its research, extension, and teaching in natural and socio-environmental ecosystems. Annually, the college secures over $15M in research funding, supporting 55 tenure-track faculty across three departments while maintaining strong partnerships with federal and state natural resource agencies.

Department Overview

The Department of Wildland Resources within QCNR excels in applied terrestrial ecology, including wildlife, forests, rangelands, conservation biology, and climate change adaptation research. Faculty members offer award-winning courses accredited by the Society of American Foresters and the Society for Range Management, preparing students for professional natural resource careers.

University Highlights

Founded in 1888, Utah State University (USU) is Utah’s premier land-grant, public service university committed to excellence, access, and inclusion. USU serves over 27,500 students statewide, including three residential campuses, eight statewide campuses, and 23 education centers. USU Online caters to students from all 50 states and 55 countries. The university is dedicated to research, providing high-quality, affordable education, and actively engaging with the community.

USU fosters a community of inclusive excellence, welcoming diverse perspectives, values, cultures, and identities. We aim to recruit and retain individuals who will champion education, research, discovery, outreach, and service excellence. Forbes recognized USU as the best employer in Utah in 2023.

USU offers a Dual Career Assistance Program and commits to reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities. For accommodations, contact the ADA Coordinator at the Office of Human Resources (435-797-0122) or [email protected].

About the Region

Utah ranks first in the U.S. for its economy, fiscal stability, education, and healthcare, boasting five national parks, 43 state parks, and 15 ski resorts. Logan, home to USU's main campus, is nestled in a scenic mountain valley 80 miles north of Salt Lake City and