Geospatial Scientist, Data Publishing and Cataloging
WFA Digital Insight
As the demand for geospatial data specialists continues to grow, with a notable 25% increase in job openings in 2025, professionals with expertise in geospatial science are in high demand. Ardent MC stands out for its commitment to employee well-being and professional development, making it an attractive choice for those seeking a fulfilling career. With a strong understanding of metadata and data management best practices, candidates can excel in this role, which requires providing subject matter expertise in geospatial data cataloging and publication practices. Before applying, candidates should be aware of the importance of staying up-to-date with the latest geospatial technologies and trends, as well as the need for excellent communication and collaboration skills to succeed in this remote position.
Job Description
About the Role
The Geospatial Scientist, Data Publishing and Cataloging role at Ardent MC is a remote position that entails leading data management and modernization initiatives with a focus on geospatial data cataloging, metadata governance, and publication practices. This role is crucial in supporting the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) program, requiring the candidate to serve as the primary point of contact for geospatial data governance and publishing efforts. As part of a collaborative team, the successful candidate will work closely with stakeholders to advance the agency's geospatial data infrastructure and accessibility.The day-to-day responsibilities of this role will involve providing subject matter expertise, leading efforts for acquiring and integrating new geospatial datasets, and developing and enforcing QA/QC protocols for data accuracy, metadata, and compliance. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of geospatial sciences, including cartography, spatial visualization, GIS systems, and geospatial platforms, as well as experience in data symbology, standardization, and metadata development and governance.
Ardent MC is committed to the well-being, personal goals, and professional development of its employees, offering a rewarding environment that fosters flexibility, innovation, collaboration, and career growth. With a collective service mindset underpinning its work, Ardent MC is seeking a talented Geospatial Scientist to join its team and make a difference.
What You Will Do
- Serve as the primary point of contact for geospatial data acquisition and quality management
- Lead efforts for acquiring, validating, and integrating new geospatial datasets
- Develop and enforce QA/QC protocols for data accuracy, metadata, and compliance
- Manage delivery of geospatial data per Government schedules and specifications
- Coordinate high availability and disaster recovery strategies for data systems
- Monitor geospatial systems and implement automated backup and recovery tools
- Oversee access control and Data Use Agreement (DUA) automation and compliance
- Provide 24/7 on-call technical support for incidents and system issues
- Maintain and publish the HIFLD Data Catalog with accurate and updated metadata
- Develop and update SOPs and documentation on data management processes
- Research and apply federal standards and best practices in data governance
What We Are Looking For
- 7+ years of demonstrated experience supporting geospatial data management and publishing for federal government programs
- Deep understanding of geospatial sciences, including cartography, spatial visualization, GIS systems, and geospatial platforms
- Proven ability to support or lead efforts of similar size and scope in a government setting
- Strong communication and collaboration skills with experience interfacing with executive and technical stakeholders
- Experience with data symbology and standardization
- Knowledge of metadata development and governance
- Familiarity with federal standards and best practices in data governance
Nice to Have
- Experience supporting DHS or similar federal geospatial initiatives
- Proficiency with platforms such as ArcGIS Enterprise, GeoPlatform.gov, Esri Geoportal Server
- Familiarity with data management and publishing tools
- Experience with automated backup and recovery tools
Benefits and Perks
- Competitive benefits package
- Professional development opportunities
- Exceptional culture that embraces flexibility, innovation, collaboration, and career growth
- Remote work arrangement
- Access to cutting-edge geospatial technologies and tools
- Opportunity to work on high-impact projects with a talented team
- Comprehensive health insurance
- Generous PTO policy
How to Stand Out
- Develop a strong portfolio showcasing your geospatial data management and publishing experience, highlighting your expertise in metadata governance and publication practices.
- Familiarize yourself with the latest geospatial technologies and trends, including platforms such as ArcGIS Enterprise and GeoPlatform.gov.
- Prepare to discuss your experience in leading efforts for acquiring and integrating new geospatial datasets, as well as your approach to developing and enforcing QA/QC protocols.
- Emphasize your ability to communicate complex technical information to both executive and technical stakeholders, and highlight your experience in collaborating with cross-functional teams.
- Be prepared to discuss your understanding of federal standards and best practices in data governance, and how you stay current with industry developments.
- Research the company culture and values, and be prepared to discuss how your own values and work style align with those of Ardent MC.
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