Job Title:
GIS Technical Expert for Ground Truthing
Job Summary:
The GIS Technical Expert for Ground Truthing is responsible for validating, verifying, and enhancing geospatial data accuracy through ground truthing techniques. This role involves conducting field surveys, assessing spatial data quality, and integrating field-verified data into GIS systems to support accurate mapping, analysis, and decision-making. The ideal candidate has advanced expertise in GIS, experience in field data collection, and proficiency in utilizing remote sensing data for validation and analysis.
Key Responsibilities:
1. Ground Truthing and Field Data Collection
- Field Survey Design and Execution: Plan and conduct field surveys for data validation, using GPS and other field equipment to collect accurate ground truth data.
- Data Verification and Validation: Compare ground truth data with GIS and remote sensing data, identifying discrepancies and ensuring high data accuracy.
- Field Equipment Management: Set up, maintain, and troubleshoot field equipment such as GPS devices, drones, and remote sensing tools to ensure data reliability during field operations.
2. GIS Data Integration and Analysis
- Data Integration into GIS Systems: Process and integrate field-verified data into GIS platforms, updating and enhancing spatial datasets for use in projects and analyses.
- Quality Assessment and Control: Perform accuracy assessments and quality control of geospatial datasets by cross-referencing them with ground-truthed data.
- Spatial Analysis for Validation: Use spatial analysis techniques to assess the precision of satellite imagery, aerial photography, and other remote sensing data based on ground truth inputs.
3. Remote Sensing and Image Analysis
- Remote Sensing Data Interpretation: Interpret and analyze remote sensing imagery (e.g., satellite, aerial) to create initial data layers for ground truthing.
- Verification of Remote Sensing Products: Evaluate and validate remotely sensed data products against ground-truthed data, making adjustments to classifications and features as needed.
- Data Classification and Corrections: Conduct land cover or feature classification using GIS software, refining classifications based on field-verified data.
4. Reporting and Documentation
- Documentation of Field Findings: Document all field findings, methodologies, and data discrepancies to support data validation processes and maintain accurate records.
- Reporting on Data Accuracy: Generate reports detailing ground truthing results, data accuracy assessments, and recommendations for data corrections or updates.
- Metadata Maintenance: Ensure all data collected in the field is accurately recorded in metadata, maintaining data provenance and integrity.
5. Cross-Functional Collaboration and Training
- Collaboration with GIS and Remote Sensing Teams: Work closely with GIS analysts, remote sensing specialists, and project managers to integrate ground-truthed data into project workflows.
- Technical Training for Field Staff: Provide training and guidance to field teams on best practices for data collection, GPS use, and ground truthing techniques.
- Stakeholder Coordination for Field Access: Coordinate with local authorities, landowners, and relevant stakeholders to gain access for fieldwork and gather necessary permissions.
Qualifications:
- Educational Background: Bachelors or Master’s degree in Geography, Environmental Science, GIS, Remote Sensing, or a related field.
- Experience: 2+ years of experience in GIS, remote sensing, and ground truthing; experience with field data collection and accuracy assessment is essential.
- Technical Proficiency: Proficiency in GIS software (e.g., ArcGIS, QGIS), GPS equipment, and remote sensing tools (e.g., ERDAS, ENVI).
- Field Survey Skills: Hands-on experience in planning and executing field data collection using GPS and mapping techniques.
- Data Management and Analysis Skills: Strong analytical abilities for data verification, integration, and quality control within GIS platforms.
Preferred Skills:
- Knowledge of Remote Sensing Imagery Analysis: Experience in interpreting satellite imagery and aerial photography for data validation.
- Familiarity with Aerial/UAVs/Drones: Experience using UAVs or drones for data collection in ground truthing processes.
- Advanced GIS Certifications: Certifications in GIS, remote sensing, or GPS data collection (e.g., Esri certifications) are a plus.