Research and Geographical Information Systems; GIS Assistant

Job Overview

Number of Vacancies: 1

Area of Consideration:
Open To The Public

Position Status:
Full-Time, Regular

Pay Plan, Series & Grade: DS0095/9

Salary Range: $68,140 - $73,364

Closing Date:
Open Until Filled

Location:

4200 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC 20008

Brief Description of Duties
The Research Assistant and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Associate provides professional-level research and technical support to the Office of the Dean within the College of Agriculture, Urban Sustainability, and Environmental Sciences (CAUSES). The position is responsible for conducting interdisciplinary research, performing qualitative and quantitative data analysis, and managing GIS to support program development, grant proposals, and strategic initiatives. This role ensures accurate data collection, interpretation, and reporting to inform evidence-based decision-making and advance institutional priorities.

By supporting projects aligned with urban sustainability, agriculture, and environmental sciences, the position contributes to the University of the District of Columbia’s mission to deliver high-quality education, foster workforce readiness, and promote community engagement as outlined in the 2024–2029 Strategic Plan.

• Conduct research and data analysis on urban sustainability, agriculture, and policy topics; compile and synthesize qualitative and quantitative data for reports and presentations. (50%)
• Provide GIS support and spatial analysis using tools such as ArcGIS or QGIS; create maps and visualizations to inform program development and decision-making. (20%)
• Develop and manage special projects under the direction of the Dean, including tracking timelines and monitoring deliverables. Provide logistical support to ensure successful project execution. (10%)
• Prepare presentations and communication materials for internal and external stakeholders, including PowerPoint decks, reports, briefing documents, and speeches. (10%)
• Collaborate with faculty, staff, and external partners to support interdisciplinary initiatives and stakeholder engagement activities. Attend and contribute to meetings, providing relevant updates on projects and research initiatives. (5%)
• Perform other related duties as assigned to support the mission and strategic priorities of the College and University. (5%)

• Bachelor’s degree in Urban Planning, Geography, Sustainability, Environmental Science, Agriculture, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 1–2 years of experience conducting research and data analysis in an academic or professional setting.
• Demonstrated proficiency in GIS software (e.g., ArcGIS, QGIS) and spatial data analysis.
• Strong analytical and research skills, including qualitative and quantitative data collection and interpretation.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills for preparing reports, presentations, and stakeholder communications.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• High level of professionalism, discretion, and ability to handle sensitive information.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).

Collective Bargaining Unit (Union): This position is in the collective bargaining unit represented by AFSCME local 2087 and you may be required to pay an agency service fee through direct payroll deduction.

Employment Benefits: Selectee will be eligible for health and life insurance, vacation and sick leave and will be covered under the University of the District of Columbia's retirement plan (TIAA).

Equal Opportunity

Employer:

The District of Columbia Government is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, personal appearance, sexual orientation, family responsibilities, matriculation, physical handicap, or political affiliation.

Veterans Preference: Applicants claiming veterans preference must submit official proof at the time of application.

Visa Sponsorship:
At this time, the University of the District of Columbia does not provide…