Student Contractor (Data Analyst)

Student Contractor – Data Analyst (GIS and R focus)

The Western Ecological Research Center (WERC) of the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) has an immediate opening for one student contractor to support waterbird research in the San Francisco Bay.  The focus of this position will be working with datasets to compile remotely sensed data and build models to understand wildlife relationships.

Primary duties are to:

1) Compile remotely sensed satellite and airborne data and synthesize with existing wildlife and environmental data collected by USGS,

2) Build statistical models to understand wildlife relationships with habitat variables, and

3) Create predictive models of wildlife abundance under habitat change scenarios.

Due to the level of education and experience this position requires, we would expect that the most reasonable fit would have a BS/BA and is working on or completed a graduate degree.

The ideal applicant will have a strong quantitative background, preferably experience applying spatially explicit models, integrated population models and using Bayesian methods.  Experience manipulating and/or analyzing in situ and remotely sensed data with Microsoft Access, ArcGIS Pro, R, Python, and other programs. Good communication skills and the ability to effectively work with collaborators and stakeholders to relay and gather information as well as demonstrated record of sharing research in peer-reviewed outlets

Work schedules will be full-time during the summer months and part-time during the school year. These are paid student contractor positions, with compensation commensurate with the role and level of responsibility of the position on the team (range: $26.27 – 32.54/hr).  The anticipated start date is between June 15 and July 1, 2026, and we expect to have this role filled for at least a year, with a possibility to extend.

This position will be based out of the USGS office at Moffett Field, California, but can be remote for the right candidate.

To qualify as a student contractor, applicants must be current undergraduate or graduate students, or recent graduates (within the past 12 months).

Applications will be reviewed as received, and the announcement will close on June 1, 2026 (or earlier if the position is filled). Please send a resume, transcripts, list of references, and a list of relevant coursework to:

Stacy Moskal
smoskal@usgs.gov