Plant Records Management Research Associate

PLANT RECORDS MANAGEMENT RESEARCH ASSOCIATE

In collaboration with the National Council for Preservation Education (NCPE), the Olmsted Center for Landscape Preservation is currently seeking a research associate to assist with piloting IrisBG plant collection management software at three units of the National Park System: Frederick Law Olmsted National Historic Site (MA), Longfellow House Washington’s Headquarters National Historic Site (MA), and John Muir National Historic Site (CA).

This project builds on a previous phase of work, which evaluated leading plant records management software options for use in national parks. Findings are available: www.ncptt.nps.gov/blog/modernizing-national-park-service-plant-records-management-2017-02/

The Plant Records Management Research Associate will:

• Work with NPS employees across cultural resources, natural resources, maintenance, and interpretation divisions to implement IrisBG by aggregating, standardizing, and importing existing vegetation datasets;
• Devise best practices and train park employees in the use of IrisBG;
• Develop web-based interpretive tools for the public based on the IrisBG Garden Explorer platform; and
• Create a summary report detailing best practices for working with large datasets, streamlining workflows, and developing interpretive tools based on IrisBG. 

The successful candidate will demonstrate:

• Botanical and horticultural knowledge;
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and ArcGIS, including mapping complex datasets (Prior coding experience, with a focus on SQL, or database experience, with a focus on data analytics, mapping, or web publishing, is a plus.);
• Ability to communicate and write effectively;
• Ability to work independently and on multiple tasks; and
• Experience or willingness to work in a multicultural environment where diversity is an institutional value.

The Plant Records Management Associate must be currently enrolled in a degree-seeking program or have graduated within the past 12 months, a U.S. citizen/national/permanent resident, and pass a Federal background check. 

This 30-week (about 7-month) position will be hosted at the Olmsted Center for Landscape Preservation’s office in downtown Boston. A 40-hour work week is anticipated. A $15/hour pre-tax stipend is provided, along with a monthly transit pass ($85/mo. value). A vehicle is not needed. Housing is not provided.

Apply by Monday, October 30, 2107 by sending the following to christopher_beagan@nps.gov as a single PDF attachment:

• Cover letter, including dates of availability
• Resume, including academic background, volunteer and work experience, technical skills, interest areas, and 2 academic or professional references
• Current academic transcript (unofficial)