Open Source Forest Data Archivist – Onsite Fort Collins

Colorado State University; Fort Collins (CO); On-site; USD 65,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

Colorado State University is seeking an Open Source Forest Data Analyst to support the Forest Service Research Data Archive. This onsite role in Fort Collins, CO, involves reviewing, processing, and documenting data for public release in line with open science policies.

You’ll train and consult with scientists to ensure datasets meet archival standards and are usable. The position emphasizes metadata quality and GIS data handling within a collaborative FS team.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in natural resources, environment, or geospatial specialization.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, Adobe Acrobat, and text editors such as Notepad, Notepad++, or Microsoft Visual Studio Code.
• Competence with ArcGIS Pro.
• Working knowledge of HTML and XML, including the ability to interpret and modify code.
• Demonstrated knowledge of FGDC CSDGM and ISO 19115 metadata standards.
• Strong attention to detail with the ability to review, edit, and update documentation accurately while ensuring consistency and formatting.
• Ability to review data in multiple formats such as tabular, geospatial, and database formats.
• Ability to read and understand forest management and related scientific terminology.

Responsibilities

• Review, analyze, and organize diverse files and documents for accurate categorization and easy access.
• Check submitted metadata and assist with metadata writing.
• Confirm metadata completeness per FS RDA standards and clarity for non-specialists.
• Review data for proper archival format and reflect it in metadata.
• Prepare publication-ready data and supplemental files (tabular, geospatial, GIS, databases, documents, images).
• Provide one-on-one training and possible presentations to scientists.
• Create and manage timelines for delivering products.
• Coordinate with team members and take on additional data publishing tasks.

Skills

Attention to detail

Time management

Communication with scientists

Education

Bachelor's degree in natural resources, environment, or geospatial specialization

Tools

ArcGIS Pro

HTML

XML

FGDC CSDGM

ISO 19115

Notepad/Notepad++/VS Code

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Excel

Adobe Acrobat

Job description

Colorado State University is seeking an Open Source Forest Data Analyst to support the Forest Service Research Data Archive. This onsite role in Fort Collins, CO, involves reviewing, processing, and documenting data for public release in line with open science policies.

You’ll train and consult with scientists to ensure datasets meet archival standards and are usable. The position emphasizes metadata quality and GIS data handling within a collaborative FS team.