GIS RESEARCH ASSOCIATE

About this Job

Northwestern State University seeks qualified applicants for the position of GIS Research Associate.

This position is in the Preservation Technical Services Division of Northwestern State University of Louisiana. This job is in partnership with The National Center for Preservation Technology and Training (NCPTT), a research and training office of the National Park Service. Our office is located on the campus of Northwestern State University of Louisiana in Natchitoches, LA.

To apply: Please send a letter of interest, resume, and related portfolio to NCPTT, 645 University Parkway, Natchitoches, LA 71457, Attn. Director of Technical Services or email to churchj@nsula.edu. Position is open until August 1, 2026. For more information, call 318-356-7444.

Northwestern State University is a State as a Model Employer (SAME) agency.

Notice of Non-Discrimination

(Full Disclosure)

Northwestern State University provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

All complaints or inquiries related to Title IX should be directed to the Director of Title IX Compliance and Title IX Coordinator, Julie Powell (318-357-5570), Room 306 of the Friedman Student Union or email tix@nsula.edu.

In accordance with Section 35.106 of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), all participants, applicants, organizations, and interested individuals are advised and noticed that the ADA Coordinator for Northwestern State University for facilities is the Director of University Affairs, Jennifer Kelly (318-357-4300), located in Room 128 Caspari Hall or email andersonje@nsula.edu. For student academic services, contact the Director of Access and Disability Support, Crissey Smith (318-357-5460) located in Room 111 Watson Memorial Library or email smithcr@nsula.edu. For faculty/staff accommodations and services, contact Executive Director of Institutional Effectiveness and Human Resources, Veronica M. Biscoe (318-357-6359), Room 111 Caspari Hall or email ramirezv@nsula.edu.

Minimum Qualifications

• Moderate knowledge of photographic techniques.
• Experience with GIS in relation to UAS systems.
• The ability to travel to remote sites (possibly for weeks at a time) around the country and conduct in the field data collection at historic sites.
• Professional verbal and written communication skills are required.
• A basic knowledge of architectural history and historic preservation.
• Self-driven, highly motivated, and diplomatic.
• Must be project focused, have an excellent attention to detail and a strong ability to work in a team environment.
• Must possess a good working knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook.
• Compile research and written information for social media and outreach presentation.
• Minimum of an Undergraduate Degree is required.
• Must have a valid driver's license.
• Must be clear to work in the US for the two-year contract with no Visa sponsorship or renewal necessary.

• Experience with UAS and Remote Pilot's License.
• LiDAR capture and scanning on site of buildings and landscapes.
• Working with data captured by UAS.
• Basic understand of CAD/BIM/3D modeling software.
• Photogrammetry capture on site of buildings and landscapes.

Job Specification

This position is based in Natchitoches, Louisiana and hired as a contractor through the State of Louisiana. The contract is for two years, at $50,470 with benefits.
For this position Tech Services is looking for someone with knowledge and experience with GIS systems working with digital twins and story maps. It is preferred that the applicant has some knowledge in architecture, landscape architecture, historic preservation, and architectural history.

Job Duties and Other Information

• Knowledge of GIS technology software and hardware.
• Proficiency and up-to-date ArcGIS software.
• Create, manage, and modify digital story maps.
• Be proficient in the latest GPS, GNSS, and RTK hardware systems.
• Maintains GIS Data management, including developing, editing and maintain geospatial databases following set archive standards.
• Research and compile information to develop standardized data collection and records into the GIS systems.
• Creates, maintains, and updates complex maps, drawings, plans, spreadsheets, data files, and documentation.
• Provides field support and coordinate with project lead on creating Ground Control Points in the field.
• Verify data accuracy and conduct on-site data collection.
• Troubleshooting data and computer operating errors.
• Create reports with project deliverables and coordinate results with supervisor within specific timeframes.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Make safety a top priority at all times.
• Performance of other duties as assigned.

Benefits for unclassified employees are determined by the individual hiring authority.