GIS RESEARCH ASSOCIATE

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

This position is in the 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 [email protected]. Position is open until November 30, 2026. For more information, call 318-356-7444.

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

The successful candidate will be subject to a background check, as a condition of employment.

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 [email protected]. 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 [email protected]. 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 [email protected]. 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 [email protected].

• A knowledge of cultural heritage and historic preservation.
• Moderate knowledge of photographic techniques.
• 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.
• 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.

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. The Technical Services Team of Northwestern State University of Louisiana is dedicated to documenting and preserving a wide variety of historic structures, landscapes, sites, objects, and sculptures across the United States.

• Proficiency and up to date with ERSI ArcGIS software.
• Create, manage, and modify digital story maps.
• Knowledge of GIS technology software and hardware.
• Maintains GIS Data management, including developing, editing and maintaining 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.
• Performance of other duties assigned.