Remote Geospatial Scientist, Data Publishing and Cataloging

Description:

• Ardent is seeking a Geospatial Scientist, Data Publishing and Cataloging to lead data management and modernization initiatives under a DHS program.
• This role is responsible for providing subject matter expertise in geospatial data cataloging, metadata governance, and publication practices to support mission-critical geospatial infrastructure across the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
• The candidate will serve as the primary point of contact for geospatial data governance and publishing efforts and will provide expert guidance to advance the agency’s geospatial data infrastructure and accessibility.
• The ideal candidate brings deep subject matter expertise in geospatial science, a strong understanding of metadata and data management best practices, and experience advising on large-scale government geospatial programs.
• Responsibilities include serving as the primary point of contact for geospatial data acquisition and quality management, leading efforts for acquiring, validating, and integrating new geospatial datasets, and developing and enforcing QA/QC protocols for data accuracy, metadata, and compliance.
• The candidate will manage the delivery of geospatial data per Government schedules and specifications, coordinate high availability and disaster recovery strategies for data systems, and monitor geospatial systems while implementing automated backup and recovery tools.
• Additional duties include overseeing access control and Data Use Agreement (DUA) automation and compliance, providing 24/7 on-call technical support for incidents and system issues, maintaining and publishing the HIFLD Data Catalog with accurate and updated metadata, and developing and updating SOPs and documentation on data management processes.
• The candidate will also research and apply federal standards and best practices in data governance, lead the creation of proof-of-concept geospatial products using DHS or GMO platforms, prepare white papers with recommendations for improving data processes and tools, and collaborate with stakeholders on geospatial demonstrations, briefings, and exchanges.

Requirements:

• Candidates must have 7+ years of demonstrated experience supporting geospatial data management and publishing for federal government programs.
• A deep understanding of geospatial sciences is required, including cartography and spatial visualization, GIS systems and geospatial platforms, data symbology and standardization, and metadata development and governance.
• Proven ability to support or lead efforts of similar size and scope in a government setting is essential.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills with experience interfacing with executive and technical stakeholders are necessary.
• Preferred qualifications include experience supporting DHS or similar federal geospatial initiatives, proficiency with platforms such as ArcGIS Enterprise, GeoPlatform.gov, Esri Geoportal Server, or similar, and familiarity with metadata standards such as FGDC and ISO 19115.
• Experience with geospatial interoperability frameworks and data-sharing initiatives is also preferred, along with a graduate degree in GIS, Geospatial Science, Geography, Data Management, or a related field.
• Due to the nature of the work, all candidates must be willing to undergo the government-issued background investigation process.

Benefits:

• Ardent offers highly competitive benefits, professional development opportunities, and an exceptional culture that embraces flexibility, innovation, collaboration, and career growth.
• The company is committed to the well-being, personal goals, and professional development of its employees.
• Employees are provided with a rewarding environment to help them succeed and are encouraged to be “All In” for both their clients and colleagues.
• A collective service mindset underpins the work at Ardent, fostering a shared camaraderie to serve clients, colleagues, and communities.