Geospatial Data Scientist

Agriculture and Biosecurity; Parramatta; On-site; AUD 78,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

NSW DPIRD Forest Research is seeking a Geospatial Data Scientist to turn remotely sensed data into actionable forest insights. You will work with hyperspectral, multispectral and LiDAR data to build ML and statistical models that characterize and predict forest attributes and to assemble analysis-ready data products for current and future research projects.

You’ll publish findings to scientific, government, and industry audiences, collaborate across government and academia, and occasionally

Qualifications

• Post-graduate degree with extensive applied experience in data and statistics.
• Experience applying AI and statistical workflows to environmental data.
• Experience with hyperspectral, multispectral and LiDAR data.
• Strong programming and modelling skills (Python preferred; R or C++).
• Experience with 3D point cloud software (LAStools, CloudCompare).
• Experience handling very large datasets using cloud computing and Linux.
• A current NSW driver licence.

Responsibilities

• Collate, validate, analyze and model spatial data using AI and statistical workflows.
• Develop machine learning and statistical models for forest datasets.
• Publish findings to scientific, government and industry audiences.
• Create analysis-ready data products behind research projects.
• Collaborate across government and academia; occasional field data collection.

Skills

Data analysis

Machine learning

Statistical modeling

Python

Education

Postgraduate degree

PhD preferred

Tools

ENVI

ggplot

Tableau

LAStools

CloudCompare

Job description

• Temporary Full Time 35 hours per week to June 2028 • Parramatta location • Professional Officer Grade 1-4 The salary offered to the successful candidate will be commensurate with qualifications, skills and experience, as outlined in the Crown Employees (Department of Regional NSW) Professional Officers Award and the Professional Officer Progression Criteria (1-4) - Salary from $78,000 to $149,805 per annum (FTE) plus super and leave loading Please note to be eligible to apply for this position you must be an Australian or New Zealand citizen or an Australian permanent resident or hold a valid Australian working Visa for the duration of the appointment.

About the Role

The role collates, validates, analyses and models spatial data, using AI and statistical workflows to produce spatial products and reports. Much of the data is remotely sensed hyperspectral, multispectral and LiDAR data from satellite, aerial and terrestrial platforms over the forested landscapes of NSW. The role develops and applies machine learning, deep learning and statistical techniques to these datasets and assembles and curates the analysis-ready data products that underpin current and proposed research projects undertaken by the Forests Research Resources team.

About You

As a Geospatial Data Scientist with NSW DPIRD Forest Research, you'll turn remotely sensed data into insights that shape how the state's forests are monitored and managed. Working with hyperspectral, multispectral and LiDAR data from satellite, aerial and terrestrial platforms, you'll develop machine learning, deep learning and statistical models to characterise and predict forest attributes. You'll also build the analysis-ready data products behind current and future research projects. Joining a highly skilled Resources team, you'll publish and present your findings to scientific, government and industry audiences, help shape externally funded research proposals, collaborate across government and academia, and get out into the field from time to time to collect data.

As our ideal candidate, you will bring:

• A passion for using data science to improve how forests are understood and managed
• Curiosity and drive to keep pace with the latest AI models and apply them to real-world problems
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a creative approach to messy, complex data
• The ability to integrate spectral, structural and field data into robust, validated products
• A collaborative approach, working well with team researchers, government and industry partners
• The ability to communicate technical results clearly to scientific and non-specialist audiences
• An organised, practical approach to delivering high-quality work on time and within budget
• Enthusiasm for occasional fieldwork in NSW forests

Essential criteria:

• A post-graduate degree with extensive applied experience in data and statistical sciences, (PhD preferred)
• Demonstrated experience applying AI and statistical workflows to environmental or biological data
• Experience with at least two of hyperspectral, multispectral and LiDAR data
• Strong programming and modelling skills (Python preferred; R or C++), preferred experience with ENVI and data visualisation tools such as ggplot or Tableau
• Experience with 3D point cloud software (e.g. LAStools, CloudCompare)
• Experience handling very large datasets using cloud computing, remote servers and Linux
• A current NSW driver licence

For further information about the role please contact hiring manager John Samuel on 0447 445 601 or email [e-mail].

Why Join Us?

At DPIRD, we’re committed to protecting and growing NSW’s primary industries while supporting regional communities.

• Work on meaningful projects that shape the future of agriculture and biosecurity.
• Enjoy flexible work arrangements and the option to work from regional locations.
• Access professional development opportunities to grow your career.
• Be part of a collaborative, inclusive team that values diversity and innovation.

Applications close: 8 November 2026 at 11:55pm AEST

Additional Information

The successful applicant in this role may be required to undergo a police check, health assessment and other assessments as required. A recruitment pool may be created for ongoing and temporary roles of the same role or role type that may become available for filling over the next eighteen months.

DPIRD is committed to providing an inclusive candidate experience and through the Disability Confident Recruiter program, identify and remove unintended barriers for candidates.

At DPIRD, we are committed to fostering a diverse, equitable and inclusive workplace that reflects the communities we serve. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds – including, but not limited to, gender, age, ethnicity, cultural heritage, disability, religion and sexual orientation.

DPIRD is a proud Disability Confident Recruiter , Family Inclusive Employer and Carer Friendly Employer We are committed to ensuring every stage of the recruitment process is accessible and free from barriers.

If you require adjustments or information in an alternative format to participate, please contact [e-mail] or the hiring manager listed for a confidential discussion.

We also understand that work is just one part of life. Our Family Inclusive Employer and Carers + Employers Accreditations reflect our commitment to supporting employees to balance work and family responsibilities.