Data Scientist

CSS/RPI is seeking qualified candidates to manage, restore, and optimize three scientific databases to support long-term scientific integrity, collaboration, and public access to harmful algal bloom data at the Hollings Marine Laboratory in Charleston, SC.

Responsibilities

• Centralize and standardize disparate Phytoplankton Monitoring Network (PMN) datasets in a unified structure for archiving into ERDDAP.
• Develop and maintain scripts for automated data transfer between data platforms.
• Align datasets with Darwin Core standards to support data sharing.
• Coordinate with NCCOS and NCEI to advance the development of a GIS-enabled data dashboard.
• Ensure PMN data integrity through accurate documentation, version control, backup, and quality control/quality assurance processes.
• Develop and maintain metadata standards to meet federal data quality requirements.
• Restore and modernize legacy Analytical Response Team (ART) database systems (MS Access/SQL-based systems).
• Migrate ART data to a sustainable and scalable platform.
• Implement governance practices to ensure data integrity through documentation, file backup, and quality control.
• Coordinate with Ocean Biodiversity Information System (OBIS) to incorporate PMN data into the Intergovernmental Panel on Harmful Algal Blooms (IPHAB) Toxins Database.
• Create data pipelines for automated data transfer between PMN and OBIS/IOC platforms.
• Support international data harmonization and interoperability efforts.
• Read, scope, author, and/or execute code of varying degrees of complexity for automation of data production, analysis, and distribution.

Requirements

• Experience with data engineering, data management, or scientific data systems.
• Proficiency in SQL and at least one scripting language (Python or R preferred) to build data pipelines, visualize data, and integrate within a federal cyberinfrastructure.
• Experience with data standards.
• Demonstrated experience with image processing and spatial data workflows (e.g., ArcGIS).
• Ability to implement an effective data quality assurance process, data optimization, and documentation procedures.
• Strong organizational skills, time management, and ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment.
• Effective team contributor with excellent interpersonal skills.
• Capable of working independently to meet project objectives and timelines.

Qualifications

• Experience with ecological/environmental datasets and marine monitoring programs.
• Familiarity with data sharing platforms (ERDDAP, OBIS).
• Experience modernizing legacy systems.
• Demonstrated ability to work individually and as part of a team; highly effective interpersonal skills, as well as strong written and verbal communication competencies.