Casual Researcher - GIS

The Institute for Social Research and Data Innovation at the University of Minnesota is hiring a Casual Researcher. The position supports spatial data management and analysis efforts by ensuring wellstructured geographic datasets. The role involves advanced GIS operations, automation, and collaboration with researchers to support data analysis and dissemination.

Key Responsibilities

* Assist in managing, cleaning, and harmonizing spatial datasets, including census microdata.

* Perform complex geospatial analyses and data processing using ArcGIS Pro.

* Maintain, update, and organize spatial databases to ensure accuracy, consistency, and data integrity.

* Develop and maintain Python scripts to automate repetitive GIS and spatial data workflows.

Flexible Work Profile

Profile 4- Fully Remote: Time spent working remotely is 100% with occasional but inconsistent presence in UMN locations. Collaborative or shared on campus work space to be provided while on campus.

Qualifications

* Bachelor's degree in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Geography, Data Science, or a related field.

* Proficiency in ArcGIS Pro and GIS programming using Python.

* Strong ability to interpret complex geographic data and spatial patterns.

* Excellent communication skills, with the ability to explain technical GIS concepts and results to researchers.

The Institute for Social Research and Data Innovation is an interdisciplinary research institute that provides the infrastructure and services to support the work of its four centers: IPUMS, the Minnesota Population Center, the Life Course Center, and the Minnesota Research Data Center. The work of the Institute and its centers advances our knowledge of societies and populations across time and space, including economic and demographic behavior, health, well-being, and human-environment interactions.

Hourly Rate: $18.72/hour

Retirement plan options are available for Civil Service, Faculty, Labor-Represented, Professional & Administrative, and Temp Casual classifications. Learn more about retirement plans.

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by Forbes as a Best Employer for Company Culture (2026), Best Employer for Women (2023), and Best Employer by State (2022-2026). In 2026, we also received Culture Excellence & Industry Awards recognition for employee appreciation and work-life flexibility.