SPFHS-2026-25 Governor's Fellow

Program/Location: Department of Environmental Protection, Office of Natural Lands Management, 501 East State Street, Trenton, NJ 08625

Opening Date: August 3, 2026 • Closing Date: August 24, 2026 • Work Week: NL (35-hour) • Salary: $75,000

About the role

Under the supervision of a GIS Specialist, the successful candidate will modernize geospatial data processes by reviewing the current workflow and developing novel, server-based solutions. The role involves scripting/model-based spatial analyses, creating a public-facing web intake form, and integrating a secure online payment system.

Responsibilities

• Review and understand the current process involving ArcGIS Pro, Microsoft Access, and Word
• Modernize geospatial data processes from local directories to server-based data sources for multi-user access
• Create GIS scripting/modelling tools to automate geoprocessing tasks
• Develop an online data entry form to accept user data for incorporation into the process
• Modernize the relational database management system integral to the process
• Modernize a reporting application to incorporate project-specific GIS attribute data into a letter template
• Modernize an accounting database application to track new requests, payments, and account debits/credits
• Establish an online payment system with guidance from Department IT services

Requirements

• Possession of a graduate degree or an undergraduate degree with two or more years of work experience in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Computer Science, Data Science, or a related field with a strong computational focus
• Selection as a Governor’s Fellow is based on:
  • Established excellence in academics and/or professional achievement
  • Proven leadership ability and potential for further growth
  • Demonstrated commitment to public service
  • Effective written communication skills, as demonstrated by a writing assignment
  • Evidence of effective teamwork
• Applicants may also be considered if they have successfully completed military service or long-term public service work with organizations such as AmeriCorps, Teach For America, or the Peace Corps
• All U.S. degrees and transcripts must be from an accredited college or university; foreign degrees must be evaluated for accreditation by a recognized service by the closing date
• Appointees will be required to possess a driver’s license valid in New Jersey if operating a vehicle is necessary for essential duties

Skills

• Proficiency with ArcGIS Pro geoprocessing methods and coding/scripting languages (e.g., Python, Arcade)
• Expertise in creating server-based geodatabases for multi-user accessibility
• Proficiency with Microsoft Access and ability to develop front-end and back-end database applications in other relational database management systems
• Excellent communication skills to convey problems, issues, and achievements

Benefits

• Paid Benefit Leave
• Holiday Pay
• Alternative Workweek Program*
• Telework*
• Pension
• Deferred Compensation
• Health Benefits (medical, prescription drug, dental, and vision care) and Life Insurance
• Flexible and Health Spending Accounts (FSA/HSA)
• Commuter Tax Savings Program
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)
• Tuition Reimbursement*

*Pursuant to the State/Department's policy, procedures, and/or guidelines.