Freelance Geospatial Data Scientist Jobs in Indiana

Position Summary
The Indiana Ecological Services Field Office Member will support U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service efforts to conserve and recover federally listed and other at-risk species throughout Indiana. Working alongside Service biologists, the member will assist with imperiled species conservation by conducting field surveys, supporting habitat restoration projects, analyzing biological and spatial data, and preparing technical reports. The member will contribute to conservation planning efforts by reviewing project information and assessing potential impacts to protected species and habitats. Additional responsibilities include GIS mapping, data management, and coordination with conservation partners engaged in species recovery activities. Through hands-on field and office experience, the member will gain practical skills in conservation biology, natural resource management, and implementation of the Endangered Species Act.
Hosting Organization
Indiana Ecological Services Field Office
Location
BLOOMINGTON, IN
Schedule
October 5, 2026 - August 6, 2027
Key Duties and Responsibilities
Conduct data and geospatial analysis to support conservation planning efforts for federally listed and at-risk species; Review project information and assist with evaluating potential impacts to fish, wildlife, and plant species; Prepare technical reports, biological summaries, GIS products, and other conservation-related documents; Maintain project records, databases, and accomplishment reports; Collect, review, and evaluate scientific literature, biological data, and resource information to support conservation decisions;
Marginal Duties
Assist with field logistics for surveys and habitat work, including equipment preparation and site support; Support partner coordination, meetings, and basic communication tasks; Provide general office support including data QA/QC, filing, and document formatting.
Required Qualifications
Must be 18 years of age or older; Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license and be able to operate a government or project vehicle; Must have a high school diploma or equivalent; Must be able to communicate effectively in English, both verbally and in writing; Must be able to work in both office and field environments, including uneven terrain and variable weather conditions; Must be able to lift and carry up to 40 pounds; Must complete all required onboarding, safety training, and agency or partner onboarding requirements prior to field work.
Preferred Qualifications
Bachelor's degree or coursework in biology, ecology, environmental science, natural resources, GIS, or related field; First Aid/CPR/AED certification; Experience conducting biological field surveys; Experience using GIS software and spatial data; Experience working in a professional office or conservation setting; Strong organizational and communication skills;
This SCA Position is authorized under the Public Land Corps Authority. All participants must be between the ages of 16 and 30, inclusive, or veterans age 35 or younger. Participants must also be a citizen or national of the United States or lawful permanent resident alien of the United States. Hours served can be applied toward the Public Land Corps (PLC) hiring authority.
General Physical Requirements
Able to understand, adhere to, and communicate with others regarding hazards, procedures, and safety policies.
Able to independently manage known medical conditions with the resources available throughout the position or program.
Able to wear all required personal protective equipment, including safety glasses, hard hats, gloves, N95 or other approved face mask or shield, and appropriate footwear.Able to refrain from behaviors and actions that disrupt the work and safety of others.
Able to cooperate with others to complete daily group tasks, responsibilities, and project work under potentially difficult conditions, variable daily routines, and with limited personal time.
Able to self-regulate or co-regulate emotions and actions when distressed or uncomfortable, with or without the support of others.
Able to self-manage outdoor and environmental exposure (e.g., temperature, wind, sun, etc.) in a variety of weather conditions.
Able to maintain adequate nutrition and hydration throughout program time.

• If using prescription medications, able to self-administer medications by following the prescribed dosage, usage, and timing without supervisor assistance. If prescription medication is administered via injection, able to self-administer the injection.
• Able to independently carry a backpacking pack weighing approximately 30% of body weight over varied, loose, inclined terrain for up to a maximum of 15 miles per day with adequate breaks.
• Able to lift a backpacking pack weighing approximately 30% of body weight with minimal assistance from others.
• Able to correctly wear a Personal Flotation Device (PFD) according to US Coast Guard specifications. Additionally, some motorized boats require passengers to be able to wear an ATV-style helmet.
• If intentionally or unintentionally submerged, maintain a face-up position in the water, and make progress through the water to shore or a rescue boat while wearing a Personal Flotation Device.
• Able to maintain a secure airway in the event of sudden water submersion.
• Able to re-board or enter a boat or watercraft from the water after training and orientation to the boat's safety procedures and safety equipment.
• Able to correctly wear a Personal Flotation Device (PFD) according to US Coast Guard specifications. Additionally, some motorized boats require passengers to be able to wear an ATV-style helmet.
• If intentionally or unintentionally submerged, maintain a face-up position in the water, and make progress through the water to shore or a rescue boat while wearing a Personal Flotation Device.
• Able to maintain a secure airway in the event of sudden water submersion.
• Able to re-board or enter a boat or watercraft from the water after training and orientation to the boat's safety procedures and safety equipment.

Working Conditions
Work schedules and projects may change on short notice or be ambiguous.;Work settings require the ability to positively interact with people of varying perspectives.;Work settings may be located in natural environments and regionally significant locations that require respect for the land and local peoples.;Work environment may be in inclement and severe weather conditions, including heavy rain and flash flooding, gusty and strong winds, foggy or decreased visibility, lightning events, and/or decreased or inclement air quality conditions due to wildfire smoke or smog.;Work may take place in warm temperatures and adverse heat conditions which could include temperatures in some regions up to 110°F or hotter.;Work may take place in cold temperatures and adverse winter weather which could include temperatures in some regions -20°F or colder with wind, snow, and sleet.;Work settings may involve exposure to natural and environmental hazards, such as poison ivy, poison oak, or poison sumac; harmful, poisonous, or disease-carrying ticks, mosquitos, insects, snakes, bears, and other wildlife.
Hours
Part time Start Date: Monday, October 5, 2026
Part Time End Date: Friday, May 21, 2027
Full time Start Date: Monday, May 17,2027
Full time End Date: Friday, August 6, 2027
Living Accommodations
Housing is not provided;
Compensation
Part-time Service = $325/week (20 hours per week)
Full time Service = $650/week (40 hours per week)
All allowances are subject to applicable federal, state, and local taxes.
Personal Vehicle Information
Required
Additional Benefits
Defensive Driving Training
First Aid/CPR
AmeriCorps: Not Eligible
Equal Opportunity Statement
The Student Conservation Association, Inc., is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The SCA strives to cultivate a work environment that encourages fairness, teamwork, and respect among all staff members and is committed to maintaining a work atmosphere where lifestyles may grow personally and professionally.