Position Details
Title: GIS and Database Coordinator
Location: Duke Farms, Hillsborough, N.J.
Reports to: Scientist and Manager of Ecology and Nature Tech Solutions
Status: Full time, non-exempt

Duke Farms is a living lab where model strategies for nature restoration, wildlife conservation and clean energy transition are developed. Located on 2,700 acres in Hillsborough, New Jersey, the campus serves as a gathering place for global decision-makers and local neighbors to ignite change.
As a center of the Doris Duke Foundation (DDF), Duke Farms advances the foundation’s mission to build a more creative, equitable and sustainable future. We work across three areas: arts & culture, nature, and health & well-being. In addition to Duke Farms, DDF operates five national programs as well as Shangri La, a global center for transformation located in Honolulu, Hawai‘i. DDF’s activities are guided by the will of Doris Duke, who endowed the foundation with financial assets that currently total over $2 billion. (To learn more about the foundation, visit dorisduke.org.)

POSITION
The GIS and Database Coordinator supports and enhances the effectiveness of geospatial data management and analysis for the Science & Conservation and Operations & Sustainability teams. The coordinator will manage GIS and database systems, provide technical GIS support and enable data-driven decision-making across conservation, ecological research, agricultural management and sustainability programs. This role will support staff scientists with data analysis, summarizing results and producing reports. In addition, the Coordinator will maintain shared systems and standards to enable consistent, secure and accessible use of geospatial data.

RESPONSIBILITIES

GIS, Spatial Analysis and Data Systems Stewardship

• Maintain and enhance GIS datasets, mapping products, and spatial analyses to support ecological research, habitat restoration, agricultural management and sustainability initiatives.
• Produce decision-ready maps, visualizations, and spatial models to support departmental strategic planning, operations and reporting.
• Develop, maintain and administer robust geospatial and ecological databases that ensure data integrity, accessibility and security.
• Establish and uphold data and documentation standards to ensure high quality, efficient access and consistency across organizational teams.

Cross-Departmental Data Support and Enablement

• Support the Science & Conservation and the Operations & Sustainability teams by providing data analysis, survey design and mapping needs.
• Foster cross-departmental collaboration to ensure cohesive data integration and effective use of GIS technologies.
• Provide training and technical support in GIS software, GPS equipment, data collection protocols and related technologies to staff and volunteers.

Institutional Learning and Initiatives

• Stay abreast of emerging technological advancements and implement innovative tools, workflows and methods.
• Prepare clear reports, presentations and visual communications for internal and external audiences.
• Support grant applications, scientific publications and outreach initiatives.

Perform other work, including special projects, as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in GIS, geography, environmental science, ecology or related fields; master’s degree preferred.
• Demonstrated experience in GIS, data analysis and interpretation and database management in ecological, conservation, agricultural or sustainability-related roles.
• Proficiency in ESRI software including ArcGIS Pro, ArcGIS Online, ArcGIS Hub, Collector, Survey123, Field Maps and related spatial analysis tools.
• Advanced proficiency in statistical skills and in R, with experience using remote sensing platforms such as Google Earth Engine.
• Familiarity with sustainable agriculture practices, ecological restoration methodologies and biodiversity conservation.
• Strong commitment to providing excellent technical support to staff.
• Effective collaborator who thrives in cross-disciplinary environments.
• Exceptional organizational, analytical and communication skills.
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines independently.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to effectively communicate technical information to diverse audiences.
• Demonstrated understanding of metadata standards, data documentation and data quality practices.
• Experience creating dashboards, web maps or story maps for public-facing communication.
• Proficient in using technology, including generative AI tools, to drive efficiency.
• Ability to navigate the 2,700-plus-acre Duke Farms property and travel to other locations, both indoors and outdoors, in various weather conditions.
• Ability to work in various outdoor conditions including but not limited to heat, cold, sun exposure and wet weather with potential exposure to environmental factors such as poison ivy, ticks and mosquitoes.
• Available to work flexible hours, including weekends, evenings and holidays.
• A valid driver’s license.

We recognize that not every candidate will meet every qualification listed. If you are passionate about our mission and believe you have the skills and experience to perform the essential functions of this role, we encourage you to apply.

WHAT WE OFFER
Anticipated starting hourly rate is $26.54 to $33.17, and the final offer will depend on experience.
Industry-leading benefits, including a 15% employer contribution to your 401(k), comprehensive health insurance, four weeks of paid vacation with additional paid time off, and matching gift benefits of up to $20,000 per year—all designed to support employees’ well-being, productivity and engagement.

A values-driven culture rooted in integrity, excellence, collaboration, openness and imagination, and diversity, equity and inclusion.

The Doris Duke Foundation is committed to inclusive hiring and equal employment opportunity. We strongly encourage candidates of all identities, experiences, orientations and communities to apply. Our recruiting and employment practices adhere to all applicable federal, state and local laws, including the Americans with Disabilities Act. We provide reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities. If a reasonable accommodation in the job application process is needed, please contact us at HR@dorisduke.org.