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Job Description
At the Coastal & Heartland National Estuary Partnership (CHNEP), we believe science drives conservation. As our Research & GIS Manager, you'll play a vital role in protecting and restoring the waters, habitats, and wildlife that make Central and Southwest Florida unique. In this position, you'll transform complex environmental data into meaningful insights that guide conservation action. From managing the CHNEP Water Atlas and leading GIS analysis projects to coordinating regional water quality monitoring efforts, your work will help decision-makers, scientists, and community partners better understand and protect our natural resources. You'll collaborate with local, state, and federal agencies, researchers, nonprofits, and community stakeholders to advance initiatives that improve water quality, restore natural hydrology, and conserve critical fish and wildlife habitats. Whether you're creating maps that reveal environmental trends, managing data that supports restoration projects, conducting scientific analyses, or communicating findings to diverse audiences, your contributions will directly influence the future health of our region's ecosystems. This is more than a GIS and research role—it's an opportunity to be part of a passionate team dedicated to turning science into action and creating lasting environmental benefits for generations to come. If you're excited about applying your technical expertise to meaningful conservation challenges, we'd love to hear from you.
Education and Experience:
Bachelor's degree (Master's degree preferred)
Degree Areas:
Biology, Ecology or Environmental Sciences/Studies Six (6) years of applicable work experience including environmental research, as well as GIS analysis and implementation of GIS applications and databases. Licenses and/or
Certifications:
Possession of a valid, State of Florida driver's license. Requirement exists at the time of hire and as a condition of continued employment. Your Purpose As the Research & GIS Manager, you will serve as a scientific and technical leader who transforms environmental data into actionable knowledge that supports conservation across Central and Southwest Florida. Your expertise in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), research, project management, and science communication will help advance CHNEP's mission to improve water quality, restore natural systems, and protect the region's valuable fish, wildlife, and habitats. You will bridge the gap between complex scientific information and real-world conservation outcomes by managing critical data resources, coordinating regional monitoring efforts, leading research initiatives, and communicating findings to diverse audiences. Through your work, you will help partners and stakeholders make informed decisions that benefit both the environment and the communities that depend on it. Your Day-to-Day Journey No two days are exactly alike in this dynamic and collaborative role. One day, you may be conducting spatial analyses in ArcGIS Pro to identify environmental trends, developing maps for a restoration project, or managing updates to the CHNEP Water Atlas. Another day, you might be coordinating with regional water quality monitoring partners, reviewing technical project deliverables, or preparing data and reports that support grant applications and conservation planning efforts. You'll regularly: Lead and manage research and GIS-related projects from planning through implementation. Analyze environmental data and conduct scientific research that supports CHNEP priorities and restoration initiatives. Develop high-quality maps, visualizations, and GIS products that communicate complex information clearly and effectively. Maintain and enhance CHNEP's GIS library, databases, and data-sharing resources. Coordinate with scientists, government agencies, consultants, and community partners to advance regional conservation efforts. Review technical reports and project deliverables, providing thoughtful analysis and recommendations. Prepare presentations, reports, proposals, and other communications for audiences ranging from technical experts to community stakeholders. Support regional monitoring programs by facilitating collaboration, maintaining quality assurance standards, and conducting field audits as needed. Attend technical meetings, workshops, and conferences to stay informed on emerging science and share knowledge with the CHNEP team. Balance multiple priorities and deadlines while maintaining a high standard of accuracy, organization, and professionalism. Success in this role requires a curious and analytical mindset, strong project management skills, exceptional communication abilities, and a passion for applying science and technology to solve environmental challenges. If you enjoy turning data into meaningful insights, building partnerships, and contributing to conservation efforts that make a lasting impact, you'll thrive as part of the CHNEP team.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
Working primarily in a climate controlled office setting (and occasionally in the field including in hot humid conditions). Lifting and carrying up to 30 pounds occasionally as needed.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
Work is performed in a relatively safe, and secure work environment.
RISK/SAFETY CONDITIONS
The position requires little to no exposure or risk related to physical and/or mental health and safety.
