Research Specialist Programmer

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Job Description:

The Research Specialist, Programmer supports CCRM projects by developing and maintaining data processing workflows, performing data analysis, creating visualizations, and assisting in the automation and web-based delivery of research outputs. This position works closely with project scientists and technical staff to translate scientific and environmental datasets into usable, accessible, and visually informative tools that support policy and resource management decisions. 

Responsibilities include (but are not limited to): 

• Development of data processing algorithms in support of CCRM projects 

• Conduct data analysis and visualization 

• Attend and contribute to scheduled project meetings 

This is a temporary, hourly position supporting time-limited project needs. We will not sponsor applicants for work visas for this vacancy.

Required Qualifications 

• Associate’s degree in computer science, data science, information systems, environmental informatics, or a related technical field; or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience. 

• Experience with Marine and or Oceanographic Science

• Demonstrated experience in at least one programming language used for data analysis (e.g., Python, R, C++, or Java). 

• Experience performing data analysis and creating data visualizations. 

• Ability to write, test, and troubleshoot code independently. 

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. 

• Ability to manage multiple assignments and meet project deadlines. 

• Effective written and verbal communication skills. 

Preferred Qualifications 

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, data science, environmental science, information systems, or related field. 

• Experience developing automated data pipelines or reproducible research workflows. 

• Experience with data visualization libraries (e.g., matplotlib, ggplot2, Plotly, D3, etc.). 

• Experience with HTML, CSS, or web-based dashboard development. 

• Experience working with environmental, geospatial, or scientific datasets. 

• Familiarity with version control systems (e.g., Git). 

• Experience supporting research or academic project environments. 

Salary- Up to $20.00 per hour, commensurate with experience. 

Conditions of Employment: 

• This is a term position and is not to exceed 8 months. 

• This is a restricted position, subject to continued availability of funding. 

• All hourly employees are subject to the Virginia Manpower Control Program. Total hours worked may not exceed an average of 29 hours per week over a twelve-month period beginning May 1 each year. 

• This is a non-exempt position eligible for overtime in accordance with the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) and University policy. 

• May require extended hours during peak project periods as directed and approved by the supervisor. 

• Must be able to work in Virginia beginning March 2026

Essential Duties and Responsibilities 

(45%) Data Processing & Algorithm Development 

• Develop, modify, and maintain data processing scripts and algorithms to support CCRM research projects. 

• Write and debug code to clean, transform, analyze, and structure large environmental and geospatial datasets. 

• Automate repetitive data workflows to improve project efficiency and reproducibility. 

• Ensure data quality through validation checks, documentation, and version control practices. 

• Collaborate with research staff to translate scientific requirements into functional programming solutions. 

• Document code and workflows to ensure transparency and continuity across project teams. 

(45%) Data Visualization & Web-Based Tools 

• Design and develop data visualizations, dashboards, and interactive displays to communicate research findings. 

• Assist in building and maintaining web-based tools and interfaces that present project data to internal and external stakeholders. 

• Apply visualization best practices to ensure clarity, accessibility, and usability of outputs. 

• Support updates and enhancements to CCRM website pages and dashboards. 

• Work with researchers to tailor visualizations for policy briefings, stakeholder engagement, and public communication. 

(10%) Project Coordination & Program Support 

• Attend and contribute to scheduled project meetings. 

• Provide technical input regarding data feasibility, visualization options, and workflow improvements. 

• Assist with documentation, reporting, and deliverable preparation as needed. 

• Perform other related duties as assigned in support of CCRM initiatives. 

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EEO is the Law.  Applicants can learn more about William & Mary’s status as an equal opportunity employer by viewing the "Know Your Rights" poster published by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. https://www.eeoc.gov/know-your-rights-workplace-discrimination-illegal

Background Check: William & Mary is committed to providing a safe campus community. W&M conducts background investigations for applicants being considered for employment. Background investigations include reference checks, a criminal history record check, and when appropriate, a financial (credit) report or driving history check. 

Remote Work Disclaimer: Remote work eligibility is not guaranteed and is subject to approval. Employee eligibility depends on the likelihood of the employee succeeding in a remote work arrangement and the supervisor’s ability to manage remote workers. Departments and/or Human Resources may amend, alter, change, delete, or modify eligibility.