Geography Department, University of Northern Iowa

UNI Geography Graduate Student Meeting with the Ghana Counselor

Recently, John Darko was the only graduate student from the Department of Geography to present on an international student panel that was made up of current students to meet with EducationUSA counselors visiting the UNI campus from 11 different countries. He is pictured with the counselor from Ghana.

UNI ARCTICenter collaborates with NASA on the "Image of the Day"

Please find the link below to NASA "Image of the Day" ("Fires Char the Siberian Arctic") with the commentary from Dr. Stas Ksenofontov and content contribution from Dr. Andrey Petrov, both affiliated with UNI ARCTICenter. The "Image of the Day" is a NASA outreach initiative to inform the public about current events in the world as observed from NASA satellites. ARCTICenter is happy to partner with NASA to provide accurate and up-to-date information to broad audiences across the globe.

Fires Char the Siberian Arctic Large wildland fires are burning in the tundra of northern Russia.

Job Opportunity: gis/cad tech

The link below is a job posting for the cad/gis tech position if interested.

https://www.cedarfalls.com/Jobs.aspx?UniqueId=85&From=All&CommunityJobs=False&JobID=Civil-CADGIS-Technician-651

Job Title: Planning & Zoning Specialist

Company: City of Sioux Falls

Location: Sioux Falls, South Dakota

Job Type: Full-time

Job Description: Implement the City zoning, subdivision, signs and outdoor advertising, and licensed manufactured home park ordinances through the examination of residential and commercial building permit applications, review of site development plans, on-site inspections, and interaction with our customers at the counter and on the phone.



Application Process:

Interested candidates can apply by using the following link: https://selfservice2021.siouxfalls.gov/ess/EmploymentOpportunities/JobDetail.aspx?req=16512000&sreq=7&form=GEN&desc=PLANNING%20AND%20ZONING%20SPECIALIST



Deadline for Applications: Monday, July 15, 2024


If you have any questions or require additional information, please feel free to contact [email protected] or 605-367-8895.

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Iowa program introduces sophomore and freshmen internships to intro rewarding careers in insurance

In Iowa 28 insurance companies are working together to create 70+ early-stage internships to attract college sophomores and freshmen to careers in the insurance industry. The Insure Your Future program (https://www.iowaeda.com/insure-your-future) will offer internships for the summer of 2023.

In 2021, Iowa insurance industry employees on average earned $89,997 annually which was nearly $36,000 more per year than their non-insurance industry counterparts in Iowa who were paid an average of $54,175 per year. “Insurance industry jobs may not be top-of-mind for most college students, but in addition to substantial compensation, insurance industry positions save lives, protect people’s assets and livelihoods (cars, apartments, homes, crops, etc.), build wealth for the future, support Iowa’s diverse economy, and give back generously to communities,” said Michael Gould, manager of insurance development for the Iowa Economic Development Authority. “Our goal is to introduce students to the many rewarding careers throughout the insurance industry.”

In addition to seeking business majors studying accounting, administration and management, economics, finance, human resources management, international business, marketing, real estate, sales, etc., the industry seeks positions in actuary science, computer science, mathematics, data analytics, journalism/communications, and a wide variety of other majors.

College sophomores and freshmen are eligible to participate in the program. All internships are paid, offering students $15-$22 per hour for a wide array of jobs throughout the industry. The program also includes four leadership development/networking events held throughout the summer of 2023.

Colleges and universities throughout the Midwest are joining the program as Insure Your Future offers students the first of what could be 2-3 workplace experiences prior to college graduation. Early-stage internships lead to additional internships which lead to better job opportunities after college.

College students interested in Insure Your Future early-stage internships can find them listed at https://www.iowaeda.com/insure-your-future.

For interns who live outside of Iowa, housing options are available at area colleges in the Des Moines and Cedar Rapids area.

[IGIC] Job Opening with Waterloo Water Works

The Waterloo Water Works is hiring a GIS Asset Technician. More information can be found in the link below:



https://www.cityofwaterlooiowa.com/freeform_jobslist_detail_T7_R106.php



Please forward on to anyone you know that may be interested.

GIS Asset Technician Position Title: GIS Asset Technician                                                                                       

POSITION DESCRIPTION WATERLOO WATER WORKS

Position Title: GIS Asset Technician Immediate Supervisor: Distribution Department Manager
BASIC FUNCTION
To perform technical work for the Waterloo Water Works to ensure efficient operation and to assist the Distribution Department by keeping distribution maps and records current and accurate.
PRIMARY JOB SUMMARY
Prepares, maintains and updates distribution and service system maps, plats, graphics, statistics, web applications and presentation materials with extensive use of geographic information systems (GIS). Use global positioning system(GPS) instruments to collect utility infrastructure data and train others in the proper use of basic GPS data collection. Under general direction, may conduct onsite inspections of water construction including subdivision and site plan projects for compliance with codes and standards along with Water Works rules and regulations in the absence of Water Works Compliance Officer. Participates in construction plan reviews. Assists with all aspects of water construction projects as it pertains to accurately applying that information to the GIS system mapping.
ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES AND ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES
Utilizes GIS to produce accurate maps, web applications, plans and graphics.
Trains others in the basic use of GIS applications.
Updates and creates GIS maps and applications as needed from as-built provided drawing or CAD file in a timely manner.
Establishes current standards and procedures to organize and maintain utility records.
Maintains plan storage and mapping system, such as base maps, web applications, distribution and service system maps and related information.
Collects GPS information on utilities and use within GIS
Trains others in the basic use of GPS equipment.
Manages water asset inventory and other associated asset data within asset management software and GIS
Tracks, consolidates and records all aspects of water system construction and as-built mapping within project folders.
Coordinates water activities in the public right of ways with other City departments as well as outside agencies and the public when necessary.
Manages the distribution model for design and analysis functions.
Interprets survey data.
Keeps records of paving cuts made by or for the Water Works, prepares a package of contract documents for bidding, processes the bidding procedure, inspects the construction work, and adjusts irregularities and extra payment that leads to final inspection and final payment.
Assists fire flow contractors performing fire flow testing while obtaining and recording that information into our GIS database.
Provides information to a large number of entities including field staff from any of the records by producing paper copies, email, or by oral transmittal over telephone or radio.
Maintains a detailed distribution department materials inventory by entering material purchased, installed or removed in the field, including an end of year analysis that assists in a determination of quantities to purchase for the new year.
Maintains and provides several records that are needed for the Annual Operating Report.
Perform all other related duties as assigned.
RELATIONSHIP AND CONTACTS
Internal Relationships:
1. Has frequent contact with General Manager and Assistant General Manager.
2. Has frequent contact with Distribution Department Manager regarding construction jobs and any related work.
3. Has frequent contact with Distribution Department Foreperson regarding job related work.
4. Has daily contact with Compliance Officer and other field staff regarding GPS information that is obtained from repairs, relocations and other useful information.
5. Has frequent contact with office staff regarding job related work.
External Relationships:
1. Has frequent contact with engineering firms regarding design locate requests, size and locations of infrastructure.
2. Has frequent contact with insurance companies regarding water main design, pressure and flow information.
3. Has frequent contact with construction contractors coordinating job related work.
4. Has occasional contact with other city departments and local firms regarding the water distribution system.
5. Has occasional contact with the general public regarding their service lines.
DIMENSIONS
Staff: Has no immediate subordinates. Provides some work direction to staff capturing GPS data with management approval. Provides critical information to the distribution department staff.
Spending Authority: Has no direct spending authority. Does have influence on spending with regard to work loads, inventories, and the need for hiring outside contracts (i.e. if a contractor needs to enlarge a street cut, the GIS Asset Technician would be able to authorize the work which could run from a few dollars to one thousand dollars.)
PHYSICAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS
The physical demands and work environment conditions described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job and are encountered while performing those essential functions. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk and hear. The employee frequently is required to sit. The employee is occasionally required to stand, walk. use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms: climb or balance: stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently exposed to outside weather conditions. The employee is occasionally exposed to wet and/or humid conditions, moving mechanical parts, high, precarious places, fumes or airborne particles, toxic or caustic chemicals, risk of electrical shock, explosives, vibration and confined spaces.
Inspection of construction projects and paving patch repairs includes some dangers inherent in construction work.
The noise level in the outside work environment is usually moderate.
MINIMUM EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE AND CERTIFICATION
Associate’s degree in GIS, Civil/Construction Engineering technology or related field from an educational institution accredited by a DOE recognized accreditation body and three years of experience working with GIS and GIS web app development required. Or equivalent combination of education and experience. Valid driver’s license with satisfactory driving record required.
PREFERRED EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE AND CERTIFICATION
Bachelor’s degree in a related field preferred. Experience with construction, construction inspection, engineering drafting or in a related field preferred.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
Knowledge of GIS online applications, desktop database management. Knowledge of GPS equipment and data collection techniques and standards. Some knowledge of utility asset management. Some knowledge of civil engineering principles. Some knowledge of construction methods, materials, plans and specifications. Skills in interpersonal and public relations. Skills in mathematics and spatial relations. Knowledge of computer operations and CAD. Some knowledge of water system engineering design basics. Ability to read and interpret maps, survey data and engineering design notes, as well as legal descriptions and documentation manuals.
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by individuals assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified in this position.
Approved by:
Employee: ___________________________________________________ Date: _____________
Immediate Supervisor: _________________________________________ Date: _____________
General Manager: _____________________________________________ Date: _____________

IDOT Systems Impact Planner position

Systems Impact Planner (TP1) Iowa Department of Transportation’s Mission is Making Lives Better Through Transportation. To accomplish our Mission, the person selected for this position will demonstrate actions and behaviors guided by the Iowa Department of Transportation’s five CORE values: Safety First, People Matter, Cust...

UNI ARCTICenter Data Collection & Grants Manager job is out

Please check

jobs.uni.edu

The GIS Programming course will be offered in Fall 2024 at UNI

This course requires no programming experience and provides an excellent introduction to Python while building GIS skills sought by many employers. For more information please see the attached flyer.

Global Geography through Film is offered this Fall

Free Drone Workshop on Friday, Apr 12

Please see the attached list of Environmental History Week events at UNI.

UNI Geography Public Lecture, Apr 8

STEM@UNI: NASA - Iowa Connection, April 2

The NASA UNI Connection

Meet staff of the Iowa Space Grant Consortium and NASA Iowa EPSCoR

Open to all members of the UNI Community



Tuesday, April 2, 2024, 1:00-2:00 pm

Scholarspace, 3rd Floor, Rod Library



Dr. Sara Nelson - NASA Iowa Space Grant Consortium & NASA Iowa EPSCoR Director

Professor Matthew Nelson - ISGC Assistant Director
Hailey Waller, ISGC and EPSCoR Program Specialist

NASA is interested in growing and diversifying the pipeline of STEM professionals and in educating a STEM literate and passionate citizenry. Please join us to learn more about how you could connect with NASA and their upcoming missions and research. Opportunities to collaborate with NASA go far beyond the obvious connections to earth & space science and aerospace engineering.
Faculty Research Support
Undergraduate Scholarships & Research
Internships
Curriculum Redesign Grants
More opportunities in fields you might not expect.

Internship opportunity

Student Trainee (Cartographer) This position is located within the Department of Commerce (DOC), National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), National Ocean Service (NOS), National Geodetic Survey (NGS) with four vacancies located in Chesapeake, VA.

The NASA UNI Connection - Tuesday, April 2, 1-2pm

Meet staff of the Iowa Space Grant Consortium and NASA Iowa EPSCoR

Open to all members of the UNI Community



Tuesday, April 2, 2024, 1:00-2:00 pm

Scholarspace, 3rd Floor, Rod Library



Dr. Sara Nelson - NASA Iowa Space Grant Consortium & NASA Iowa EPSCoR Director

Professor Matthew Nelson - ISGC Assistant Director
Hailey Waller, ISGC and EPSCoR Program Specialist

NASA is interested in growing and diversifying the pipeline of STEM professionals and in educating a STEM literate and passionate citizenry. Please join us to learn more about how you could connect with NASA and their upcoming missions and research. Opportunities to collaborate with NASA go far beyond the obvious connections to earth & space science and aerospace engineering.
Faculty Research Support
Undergraduate Scholarships & Research
Internships
Curriculum Redesign Grants
More opportunities in fields you might not expect.

New UNI Environmental Geography Class Theme for Fall 2024

Job Information:

Job Information: GIS Technician Job Bolton & Menk has an opening for an entry-level GIS Technician in our Minneapolis office. We’re looking for a motivated problem solver who enjoys collaboration in a fast-paced environment that will help foster our mission that All People Should Live in a Safe, Sustainable and Beautiful Community! ...

[IGIC] City of Coralville - GIS Specialist

The City of Coralville posted a GIS Specialist position today. Please see the link below. The posting closes on March 31st.

Geographic Information System (GIS) Specialist Come work for the City of Coralville! For 150 years, Coralville has experienced continuous development and population growth. Coralville is a city in the Corridor area that...

City of Clive, IA Summer Intern

The City of Clive is looking to hire a GIS Intern for the summer of 2024. Details can be found in the attached link.

https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/cityofclive/jobs/4414277/geographic-information-systems-gis-intern

RAISING RESEARCH ADMINISTRATORS!

I-RAISE (Iowa Research Administration Internship Student Experience) is a cross-institutional program designed to build a more robust regional research administration (RA) workforce for the future. Funding through the National Science Foundation (NSF) Growing Research Access for Nationally Transformative Equity and Diversity (GRANTED) program will support annual cohorts of student interns from the six I-RAISE partner institutions (Iowa State University, Dordt University, Drake University, University of Northern Iowa, Central College, Simpson College).

I-RAISE will prepare both undergraduate and graduate students from participating institutions for future RA careers through: (1) a classroom-based bootcamp; (2) a 10-week summer internship with an RA unit at ISU; and (3) 12-week fall and spring RA internships at each student’s home institution.

Applications are due Monday, April 1, 2024 by 5 pm.

To learn more about eligibility, the application process, support, and expectations for I-RAISE interns enrolled at the University of Northern Iowa visit https://rsp.uni.edu/i-raise.

Information about Undergraduate Informal STEM Ed Internship?

Looking for a great summer STEM education internship? Consider applying for the new ISGC Informal STEM Education Internship program!

Spend 10 weeks exploring STEM education and science communication with one of the ISGC's outreach affiliates at the Grout Museum District, National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium, Putnam Museum, or Science Center of Iowa. Interns will participate in or lead programming showcasing NASA and NASA’s work and/or develop and deliver educational programming for their hosting outreach affiliate. Learn more and apply at: https://www.iaspacegrant.org/informal-stem-education-internship/

GIS position with the City of Marshalltown

The spring career fair is just around the corner. Mark your calendars for Monday, February 19, because this year, we are offering an exciting new event specifically for YOU, our faculty partners. Of course, our employers love interacting with our students, but they are eager to build strong connections with the UNI faculty as well.

GIS Tech Intern

GIS Tech Intern in Cedar Falls, Iowa | Careers at Cedar Falls Utilities As a member of the Electric Operations team at Cedar Falls Utilities, the Intern student will have the opportunity to develop and maintain GIS data. The Intern is provided an opportunity for on-the-job training and will assist in collecting and entering information into the ArcGIS platform. The Inte...

Iowa DOT Environmental Science/Natural Resources Internship Opportunity

There is a great internship opportunity, located in Ames, IA, to any learning individual in Environmental Science/Natural Resources or related fields. Their section has a ton of opportunities for any learning individual who wants to gain some broad exposure to the field of environmental science including but not limited to work involving wetland delineations, stream surveys, threatened and endangered species surveys, Section 404 of the clean water act permitting, mitigation site monitoring, GIS data collection and mapping, report preparation using scientific writing, and much more.



Please see link below:

iowadotinternship.ourcareerpages.com The core function of the Location and Environment Bureau (LEB) is to balance transportation project delivery, regulatory compliance, and environmental stewardship for Iowa’s transportation interests. Part of this core function includes reviewing transportation projects for potential impacts to wet...

Congratulations to one of our alumni for serving as the President of the U.S. Compositing Council

IWRC’s Jennifer Trent to serve as the President of the U.S. Composting Council CEDAR FALLS, Iowa - With the start of a new year, the United States Composting Council (USCC) has announced the University of Northern Iowa Iowa Waste Reduction Center’s Jennifer Trent as its new Board of Directors President. Jennifer Trent is a program manager at the Iowa Waste Reduction Center s...

UNI Geography Student Features in a local newspaper for his work on building a cemetery GIS database

Knowing where the bodies are buried Ross Keane never thought he’d work in a cemetery, but that’s where he was found recently, looking into a computer screen at Webster City’s Graceland Cemetery. For centuries, cemetery records have been recorded in books, or on cards in small drawers resembling library card catalogs. Such record...

Phi Alpha Theta lecture in February, given by UNI history alum

In honor of Black History month, we've invited UNI alum Dr. Katy Swalwell to kick off the Spring portion of our Phi Alpha Theta lecture series. Please join us for Dr. Swalwell's lecture titled: "Black Historical Consciousness & Teaching Iowa History" on February 21st, at 7 pm, in Seerley 115.