NCEAS Wildfire Resilience Index Data Analyst; Associate Specialist National Center

Position Overview

Position title:

Wildfire Resilience Index Data Analyst

Salary range: $77,500 - $85,800 annually (100% time). Full-time. Initial appointment 12 months with potential extension.

Percent time: 100%

Anticipated start:
Preference for someone who can begin by February 1, 2026.

Position duration: 12 months with possible extension pending funds and strong performance.

Open date:
November 24, 2025

Next review date:
Monday, Dec 15, 2025 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time). Apply by this date to ensure full consideration by the committee.

Final date:
Tuesday, June 30, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time). Applications will continue to be accepted until this date, but those received after the review date will only be considered if the position has not yet been filled.

The National Center for Ecological Analysis and Synthesis (NCEAS) at UCSB seeks a data analyst to support a research program focused on constructing a retrospective analysis of a Wildfire Resilience Index (WRI) for the US and Canadian West. Built on the success of the NCEAS' Ocean Health Index, the Wildfire Resilience Index will provide policymakers and the public with clear, actionable metrics on wildfire resilience to improve management.

The project will calculate the WRI for 2005‑2025, allowing assessment of the index performance and evaluation of wildfire treatments, management strategies, and interventions at spatial and temporal scales not previously possible. This multi‑year project involves a dynamic team including a project lead, web developer, and expert working group.

As a successful Data Analyst, you will bring strong analytical skills and domain knowledge to support the development of a suite of indicators and a comprehensive framework to quantitatively measure wildfire resilience at scales directly relevant to management. Your responsibilities will include building robust data pipelines, creating reproducible analytical workflows, integrating heterogeneous data sources (tabular datasets, geospatial data, remote sensing products), and applying advanced machine learning and AI‑driven methods to accelerate analyses, uncover patterns, and improve assessment accuracy and scalability.

• Master's degree in environmental science, earth science, ecology, data science, computer science, or a related field

• At least 4 years of experience in data analysis
• Strong coding skills in R and Python
• Experience using machine learning techniques to process and analyze large datasets
• Ability to review and synthesize large amounts of literature and disparate data sources
• Ability to communicate complex information using data visualization techniques
• Analytical and problem‑solving skills, paired with the ability to develop creative and efficient solutions
• Interpersonal communication skills to collaborate with diverse scientific teams
• Outstanding organizational skills
• Ability to take initiative and work independently and as part of a team

Document requirements:

• Curriculum Vitae – Most recently updated C.V.
• Cover Letter – Include interest in the position and qualifying experience.

Reference requirements:

• Three references (name and contact info only). The top candidate’s references will be contacted before the final job offer.

Apply link: (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)./JPF
03024

Help contact: mmorris

As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years concerning misconduct. Misconduct includes violations of policies or laws prohibiting sexual harassment, assault, or discrimination. UC policies applicable include the Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment Policy, the Anti‑Discrimination Policy, the APM‑035:
Affinity Program for Equality, and the University’s Commitment to Neighborhood Health, etc.

Additionally, you will be required to comply with the University of California vaccination program policy. Federal, state, or local public health directives may impose additional requirements.

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state or federal law.

Santa Barbara, CA