AI/ML Ecosystem Data Analyst

University of Vermont; Burlington (VT); Hybrid; USD 80,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Vermont invites applications for an AI/ML Ecosystem Data Analyst in Burlington, VT. You will analyze ecological data, design and operationalize AI/ML workflows, and build data pipelines and interfaces to make results reproducible and accessible to researchers and the public.

You will train, evaluate, and deploy models for mapping and detection, collaborate with the Spatial Analysis Lab and RSENR, assist with grant writing, and seek outside funding opportunities, including

Qualifications

• PhD in a related discipline with four years of relevant experience.
• Expertise in data science, machine learning, and AI applications.
• Strong proficiency with relational databases (SQLite, PostgreSQL).
• Experience with APIs, web services, Power Automate, Teams, and Sharepoint for workflow integration.
• Demonstrated interdisciplinary collaboration and scientific productivity.

Responsibilities

• Analyze ecological data and design, build, and operationalize AI/ML workflows.
• Develop, train, evaluate, and deploy AI/ML models for mapping, classification, and detection.
• Build data pipelines, databases, and interfaces (R Shiny or comparable).
• Collaborate with SAL, RSENR, and partners on grant writing and research initiatives.
• Pursue outside funding opportunities and partnerships with agencies.

Skills

Data science

Machine learning

Relational databases

Python

R

Cloud-native infrastructure

Grant writing

Education

PhD in Computer Science

PhD in Ecology

PhD in Wildlife Biology

PhD in Data Science

PhD in Bioinformatics

Tools

SQLite

PostgreSQL

APIs/web services

Power Automate

SharePoint

SQL

Job description

AI/ML Ecosystem Data Analyst

The University of Vermont is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other category legally protected by federal or state law.

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Finalists for positions at UVM may be subject to a criminal background check.

For classified staff positions, actual hiring pay dependent on current competitor market conditions, comparable campus peer(s) at time of hire, and candidate’s experience level and length.

Be sure to carefully review and update your application information before submitting an application!

Position Details

Serve as the AI/ML Ecosystem Data Analyst within the USGS Research Cooperative Unit at UVM, and in collaboration with the Spatial Analysis Lab (SAL). The primary role of this position is to analyze ecological data and design, build, and operationalize AI/ML workflows that collect, process, and derive insight from heterogeneous data sources, including wildlife imagery, bioacoustics recordings, geospatial and remotely sensed data, sensor networks, and field observations. Develop, train, evaluate, and deploy AI/ML models for mapping, classification, and detection of wildlife and other features, and build the data pipelines, databases, and R Shiny or comparable interfaces that make results reproducible, maintainable, and accessible to researchers, partners, and the public. Support the AI/ML branch of RSENR within the Cooperative Unit and SAL, contribute to ecosystem monitoring efforts, and help oversee the Alliance for Monitoring Biodiversity and Ecosystems Remotely (AMBER) program. Work under the direction of the USGS Research Cooperative Unit Leader and collaborate with the SAL Director, RSENR, and other partners on grant writing, business development, and research initiatives, while independently pursuing outside funding opportunities. Partner with geospatial analysts and the development team lead on research and development of new AI/ML methods and models.

Minimum Qualifications

• PhD in Computer Science, Wildlife Biology, Ecology, Data Science, Bioinformatics, or a closely related discipline, and four years related professional experience.
• Demonstrated expertise in data science, machine learning, and AI applications.
• Strong proficiency in relational database design and management, including stand‑alone programs such as SQLite and served databases such as SQL or Postgres.
• Experience with APIs, web services, Power Automate, Teams, and Sharepoint for workflow integration.
• Strong record of interdisciplinary collaboration and scientific productivity.
• Experience managing complex technical or research projects, including grant writing.
• Experience with cloud-native infrastructure and scalable AI workflows, focused primarily on the R and Python coding languages.
• Substantial experience in working with the public and agency monitoring partners.

Desirable Qualifications

• Postdoctoral experience preferred
• High proficiency in public outreach and instruction desired
• Supervisory or personnel management experience desired

Anticipated Pay Range

$80,000 - $95,000

Special Conditions

• A probationary period may be required
• Contingent on continued funding
• Occasional evening and/or weekends required (if non‑exempt position, may result in overtime)
• Travel to and from worksites required
• This position is eligible for a hybrid schedule with an option to split time between campus and elsewhere, in accordance with the university telecommuting policy
• Background Check required for this position

FLSA

Exempt

Union Position

Yes, UVMSU

Posting Details

Job Location: Burlington, Vermont, United States

Job Open Date: 08/20/2026

Open Until Filled: No

Our Common Ground Statement

The University of Vermont is a welcoming, educationally purposeful community committed to creating an inclusive environment that embraces intellectual diversity and global perspectives. We seek to prepare students to be accountable leaders who will bring to their work a grasp of complexity, effective problem-solving and communication skills, and an enduring commitment to learning and ethical conduct. Members of the University of Vermont community embrace and advance the values of Our Common Ground: Respect, Integrity, Innovation, Openness, Justice, and Responsibility. Staff play a critical role in this effort and the successful candidate will demonstrate a strong commitment to UVM’s mission and advancing Our Common Ground values through the execution of their job duties.

Position Information

Position Title: Research Data Analysis PC5 X

Posting Number: S6267PO

Department: Rubenstein Sch Env & Nat Res/57000

Position Number: 00027971

Percent of Full-Time: 1.0

Standard Hours at 1.0 FTE: 37.5

Term (months per year): 12

Documents Needed to Apply

1. Resume
2. Cover Letter/Letter of Application

Optional Documents

1. Other Document (1)