Scientific Analyst I (Extended Temporary) (Part-Time)

Arizona International; Tucson (AZ); On-site; USD 53,000 - 66,000; Part time

Job summary

University of Arizona is recruiting a Scientific Analyst I (Extended Temporary) to support the RHEM team on data preprocessing, integration, and tool development. The role emphasizes Python-driven data workflows, GIS analyses, and documentation of methods for reproducibility.

The position is part-time (0.75 FTE) and on campus in Tucson, with benefits and potential for extension depending on funding. Visa sponsorship is not available.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent learning/experience required.
• Preferred: degree in rangeland ecology, hydrology, soil science, or related field.
• Experience with Python, GIS, and building interactive data visualizations.
• Familiarity with Git/GitHub for version control.
• Strong documentation and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Collect, clean, preprocess, and organize datasets using Python and ArcGIS.
• Develop, evaluate, and maintain data modules and tools for web-based RHEM.
• Create visualizations and spatial analyses to support research and stakeholders.
• Perform QA and document data processing steps and methods.

Skills

Python

GIS

Data visualization

Data QA

Education

Bachelor's degree or equivalent

Bachelor's degree in natural resources related field

Tools

Git/GitHub

Esri ArcGIS

Job description

Scientific Analyst I (Extended Temporary) (Part-Time)

Posting Number: req27198

Department: Sch of Nat Resource&Enviro-Res

Department Website Link: https://snre.arizona.edu/

Location: Tucson Campus

Address: 1064 E. Lowell Street, Tucson, AZ 85721 USA

Position Highlights

The Rangeland Hydrology and Erosion Model (RHEM) team of the School of Natural Resources and the Environment is looking for a motivated candidate to fill the role of Scientific Analyst I, preferably with a background in GIS, information systems, rangeland ecology, hydrology, soil science, or a related natural resource discipline, to help maintain and improve our established, actively used web-based tools. This is an excellent opportunity for a qualified candidate who seeks hands‑on information systems development experience in the natural resource field. The successful candidate will support the maintenance of existing tools and the continued development of RHEM, while combining, manipulating, and visualizing datasets using Python and Esri's ArcGIS suite.

This is an Extended Temporary Employment (ETE) position expected to last a year from the start date with the possibility for extension dependent on available funding.

Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

Outstanding U of A benefits include health, dental, vision, life insurance and disability programs; access to U of A recreation and cultural activities; and more!

For more information about working at the University of Arizona and relocations services, please.

Duties & Responsibilities

Data Preprocessing, Dataset Harmonization & Data Documentation:

• Collect, clean, preprocess, and organize structured and unstructured rangeland ecology, hydrology, and soil science datasets into standardized, analysis‑ready formats using Python and Esri's ArcGIS suite.
• Perform quality control measures and dataset testing to ensure data accuracy, completeness, and topology integrity.
• Document data sources, processing steps, and analytical methods to support transparency and repeatability for research collaborators and stakeholders.

Computational Module Support & Process Automation:

• Support the RHEM research team in developing, evaluating, and maintaining scientific modules and database components for the web‑based tool using Python and spatial information systems workflows under direct supervision.
• Identify opportunities to improve technical efficiency in routine data analysis and tool performance through script‑based automation and standardized processing pipelines.

Data Visualization & Spatial Analysis Output:

• Develop visual representations, summary graphics, and spatial data visualizations using Python and Esri's ArcGIS suite to demonstrate RHEM hydrology, soil erosion, and rangeland input/output data patterns and practical use cases for interdisciplinary research teams and stakeholders.

Tool Quality Testing & Stakeholder Documentation:

• Perform quality assurance and functional testing on RHEM web tool modules and dataset inputs within defined guidelines.
• Support the preparation and enhancement of technical documentation, standard reports, and user training/instructional materials in varying formats to communicate data methods and system usage to stakeholders.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs):

• Proficient skill in Python for data processing, analysis, and visualization.
• Ability to compile, filter and summarize tabular data.
• Strong attention to detail for data QA, documentation, and testing.
• Ability to integrate heterogeneous tabular data from multiple sources.
• Solid written communication skills for user‑facing documentation.
• Familiarity with the Esri/ArcGIS ecosystem.

This job posting reflects the general nature and level of work expected of the selected candidate(s). It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities. The institution reserves the right to amend or update this description as organizational priorities and institutional needs evolve.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent advanced learning attained through experience required.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in rangeland ecology, hydrology, soil science, or a related natural resource discipline.
• Experience in building interactive data visualizations, version control with Git/GitHub.
• Experience working with Python, geospatial data and GIS, including preparing vector and raster files from provided source data.

FLSA: Exempt

Full Time/Part Time: Part Time

Number of Hours Worked per Week: 30

Job FTE: 0.75

Work Calendar: Fiscal

Job Category: Research

Benefits Eligible: Yes - Full Benefits

Rate of Pay: $53,039 - $66,299

Compensation Type: salary at 1.0 full-time equivalency (FTE)

Grade: 7

Compensation Guidance

The Rate of Pay Field represents the University of Arizona's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting. The University considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate's work experience, education/training, key skills, and internal equity.

The Grade Range represent a full range of career compensation growth over time. The university offers compensation growth opportunities within its career architecture. To learn more about compensation, please review our Applicant Compensation Guide and our Total Rewards Calculator.

Career Stream and Level: PC1

Job Family: Research & Data Analysis

Job Function: Research

Type of criminal background check required: Name-based criminal background check (non-security sensitive)

Number of Vacancies: 1

Target Hire Date: 10/26/2026

Open Date: 10/1/2026

Open Until Filled: Yes

Documents Needed to Apply: Resume and Cover Letter

Contact Information for Candidates: Haiyan Wei, Assistant Research Professor
[e-mail]

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In compliance with the Jeanne Clery Campus Safety Act (Clery Act), each year the University of Arizona releases an Annual Security Report (ASR) for each of the University's campuses. These reports disclose information including Clery crime statistics for the previous three calendar years and policies, procedures, and programs the University uses to keep students and employees safe, including how to report crimes or other emergencies and resources for crime victims. As a campus with residential housing facilities, the Main Campus ASR also includes a combined Annual Fire Safety report with information on fire statistics and fire safety systems, policies, and procedures.

Paper copies of the Reports can be obtained by contacting the University Compliance Office at [e-mail].