Statewide Wyoming

Position Title: Data Scientist

Organization:  Wyoming Game and Fish Department

Location: Statewide Wyoming

Organization Overview: 

Position Overview: The Wyoming Game and Fish Department seeks a Data Scientist. This position provides spatial data analysis, data management, workflow development, and statistical modeling in service to wildlife managers and the Wildlife Division. Primary responsibilities include assistance with updating species-monitoring programs, improving rigor and application of relevant research, and ensuring Department access to clean, useable datasets. While the incumbent should be able to work on any taxa, many of the job duties are associated with nongame species. Work products from the Data Scientist will enhance the Department’s use of sound science and data in wildlife management. The position is part of the Department’s Science, Research, and Analytical Support Unit. Applicants should have a strong analytical skill set and a keen interest in wildlife management. The position will be based at the Cheyenne Headquarters Office (preferred) or at an approved regional office.

Duties: 

• Data management and workflow development. Develop workflows to manage field and spatial data, particularly for sage grouse and other Species of Greatest Conservation Need. Work with Department personnel to ensure that data are properly uploaded, cleaned, and backed up, thereby guaranteeing future access. Assist Department personnel with data retrieval and interpretation.
• Study design and data analysis. Review study designs for research and monitoring projects, with a focus on Species of Greatest Conservation Need. Work with project proponents to make sure that study designs and analyses yield defensible answers to management questions. Analyze wildlife data to support Division needs, and assist with the implementation of the State Wildlife Action Plan. Develop visuals, publications, and other deliverables to disseminate results. Participate in field data collection activities to assist with Department research and monitoring projects.
• New science application. Work with the Unit supervisor, Unit staff, Programs, and Regions to implement updated analytical and wildlife monitoring techniques. Help the Division and the Director’s Office remain current on emerging science. Develop and review new analytical approaches to address pressing management needs

Qualifications:

Preference will be given to applicants with a Master’s Degree in Wildlife Ecology, Biology, or Management; with at least 3 years of progressive work experience in wildlife management and quantitative applications.

**Must have a valid driver’s license

KNOWLEDGE:

• Advanced understanding of the principles, concepts, and practices of wildlife ecology and management
• Knowledge of traditional and emerging statistical applications relevant to wildlife ecology
• Demonstrated expertise in spatial analysis, data workflows, and advanced data management
• Expertise in the design of wildlife monitoring and research projects
• Experience developing new spatial data analysis approaches or tools to solve wildlife problems
• Ability to communicate effectively with technical and non-technical audiences
• Advanced technical writing skills
• Advanced familiarity with Program R, Microsoft, and Google platforms, and an ability to learn new software packages
• Excellent interpersonal communication skills
• Ability to work with stakeholders, despite disagreements or differing perspectives
• Capacity to solve problems both independently and as part of a team
• Ability to analyze information and make appropriate decisions
• Capacity to make and defend recommendations despite imperfect data
• Knowledge of state personnel rules and Wyoming Game & Fish Commission policies regarding Department employees

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Education:
Bachelor’s Degree (typically in Wildlife Management)

Experience:
1-2 years of progressive work experience (typically in Wildlife Management) with acquired knowledge at the level of a Wildlife Biologist II

Certificates, Licenses, Registrations:
None

OR

Education & Experience Substitution:
4-6 years of progressive work experience (typically in Wildlife Management) with acquired knowledge at the level of a Wildlife Biologist II

Certificates, Licenses, Registrations:
None

Necessary Special Requirements

PHYSICAL WORKING CONDITIONS:

The position requires the lifting of heavy objects and strenuous physical exertion at times.
Must be able to work in various weather conditions and environments.
Must be able to work all days of the week and varied work hours, including weekends and early mornings, evenings/late nights.
Ability to safely operate motorized equipment, including 4×4 pickup trucks, ATVs, and snowmobiles.
Ability to safely use horses or mules (where assigned) to perform surveys or transport equipment and other items.

Salary/Pay: $5,161.87 – $6,451.47 Monthly

Application Deadline: January 6, 2023

How to Apply: Please use the online application to view the full job description as well as how to apply.