Part-Time Systems Analyst III

Iowa State University; United States; Remote; USD 32,000 - 52,000; Part time

Job summary

The Center for Survey Statistics and Methodology (CSSM) at Iowa State University seeks a Part-Time Systems Analyst III to support geospatial data workflows and QA/QC for national surveys. This remote, part-time role requires strong communication and independent work habits.

Responsibilities include developing Python scripts, data pipelines, and geospatial tools, coordinating with NRCS/USDA partners, and ensuring data quality across complex datasets.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree and 5 years of related experience.
• Experience with geospatial data, GIS, and remote sensing applications.
• Experience developing and managing geospatial data workflows and automation tools.
• Experience with data QA/QC and large, complex datasets.

Responsibilities

• Performs QA/QC of NRI imagery and geospatial data.
• Investigates imagery alignment issues and spatial anomalies.
• Supports NRCS imagery processing and geospatial workflows.
• Develops Python scripts and geospatial tools to improve efficiency.
• Designs and manages end-to-end geospatial workflows for complex datasets.
• Develops and maintains the RSL Tracker application to monitor production workflows.

Skills

Geospatial data

GIS

Remote sensing

Python scripting

Data workflows

Education

Bachelor’s degree

Tools

ArcGIS

QGIS

ERDAS

Job description

Position Title:

Part-Time Systems Analyst III

Job Group:

Professional & Scientific

Required Minimum Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree and 5 years of related experience

Job Description:

The Center for Survey Statistics and Methodology (CSSM) within The College of Liberal Arts and Science is seeking a qualified Part-Time Systems Analyst III. CSSM specializes in the research and practice of sample surveys.

CSSM has functioned as a collaborator for federal and state agencies, nonprofit organizations, and other campus units. Building on the expertise of Iowa State University’s Department of Statistics, CSSM has developed extensive capabilities in the technical and operational aspects of data science and sample survey research. Its cross-disciplinary workforce includes statisticians, data collectors, data analysts, software developers, GIS specialists, IT service and infrastructure personnel, communication specialists, and technical writers, who work across two branches: Data Science Services (DSS) and Survey Research Services (SRS).

DSS primarily collaborates with the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (USDA-NRCS) on projects such as the National Resources Inventory (NRI) and the Conservation Effects Assessment Project (CEAP), as well as with the U.S. Department of the Interior’s Bureau of Land Management on rangeland surveys. SRS conducts data collection for surveys across a range of formats and modes, including the Iowa Farm and Rural Life Poll and the Housing Provider Study.

This is a part-time, fully remote position that requires strong communication, organization, and the ability to work independently.

Example of Duties:

• Performs QA/QC of NRI imagery and geospatial data received from contractors.
• Investigates and resolves imagery alignment issues, rectification discrepancies, and spatial anomalies.
• Supports NRCS imagery processing, calibration, and geospatial workflows.
• Verifies annual CRP datasets for NRI survey use.
• Ensures geospatial deliverables meet national accuracy and quality standards.
• Develops Python scripts, data pipelines, and geospatial tools to improve efficiency.
• Designs and manages end-to-end geospatial workflows for complex spatial datasets.
• Develops and maintains the RSL Tracker application to monitor production workflows.
• Identifies workflow bottlenecks and implements process and technology improvements.
• Coordinates imagery production, processing, review, and QA for regional projects, including Alaska NRI.
• Coordinates schedules, milestones, technical specifications, and deliverables with contractors and partners.
• Monitors contractor compliance with requirements, data standards, and timelines.
• Serves as a senior technical resource for complex NRI geospatial operations.
• Provides technical guidance, mentoring, and support to staff and project partners.
• Collaborates with NRCS, FSA, contractors, and other partners to resolve geospatial issues.
• Develops SOPs, protocols, and technical documentation for geospatial processes.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with geospatial data, GIS, and remote sensing applications.
• Experience with Python scripting, ArcGIS, QGIS, or ERDAS.
• Experience developing and managing geospatial data workflows and automation tools.
• Experience with data quality assurance/quality control and large, complex datasets.
• Experience coordinating technical projects and working with contractors or multi-agency partners.

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship. Immigration sponsorship is not available for this position.

Why Choose Iowa State University?
Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental, as well as:

• Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
• Generous vacation, holiday, and sick time and leave plans
• Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)
• Life insurance and long-term disability
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Various voluntary benefits and discounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Wellbeing program
• Iowa State offers WorkFlex options for some positions. WorkFlex offers flexibility on when, where, and how you do your work. For more information, please speak with the Hiring Manager.

Appointment Type:

Regular

Number of Months Employed Per Year:

12 Month Work Period

Time Type:

Part time

Pay Grade:

PS811

Original Posting Date:

October 7, 2026

Posting Close Date:

October 14, 2026

Job Requisition Number:

R20028

Iowa State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, ethnicity, religion, national origin, pregnancy, sexual orientation, genetic information, sex, marital status, disability, or status as a U.S. Veteran. Inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies may be directed to Office of Equal Opportunity, 2680 Beardshear Hall, 515 Morrill Road, Ames, Iowa 50011, Tel. [phone], email [e-mail].

General ISU compensation information can be found on the University Human Resources website. Please note that this is only a list of ranges and individuals will be paid commensurate with qualifications.