Research Data Systems Specialist, Soil Science
Primary Purpose: The Data Driven Innovations with Geospatial Soil Science (DIGSS) program is seeking a Data Systems Specialist for a 10‑week contract (16 hours/week; 160 billable hours) to design and implement a production‑ready PostgreSQL database that will support long‑term research data storage and efficient access. The specialist will also contribute to the design of data workflows that ensure quality and security across research projects. Following the contract deliverables, there will be an opportunity to extend the contract to support ongoing database operations and maintenance as well as future web platform development.
The contractor’s core responsibility is to build a secure, well‑structured PostgreSQL database that enables data owners to access their data through tools such as R or future API/web‑based systems. Additional responsibilities include contributing to data validation workflows and supporting the development of long‑term governance standards.
The Data Systems Specialist will work collaboratively with Dr. Chizen and the Research Extension Technician.
Deliverables:
- Design, configure, and implement a PostgreSQL-based data system hosted on the Digital Research Alliance Canada Arbutus Cloud, including a documented database schema aligned with project requirements.
- Implement secure role‑based access structures enabling researcher and data owner access.
- Comprehensive documentation for database access, schema, and permissions.
- Contributions to data intake and validation workflows.
Future Deliverables with Possible Contact Extension:
- Support the ongoing operations and maintenance of the database.
- Data workflow expansion and optimization.
- Development of a secure, multi‑user web platform for data access.
Key Responsibilities:
- Participate in creation of data management workflows, including automation for data intake, cleaning, and reporting.
- Create and update documentation for data structures, workflow processes, and version control.
- Maintain clear and organized documentation that supports long‑term database continuity.
- Work collaboratively with the DIGSS team to understand data context, formats, and user needs.
- Align database development, security configurations, and access‑control structures with USask IT standards and best practices, ensuring compliance with institutional guidelines for data security, authentication, storage, and long‑term stewardship.
Education and Experience:
- Bachelor’s degree in computer science, data science, software engineering, or a related field.
- 2-3 years of experience in database development, data engineering, or related technical roles.
- Experience with workflow automation, scripting, or API development is an asset.
- Experience with Digital Research Alliance of Canada (DRAC) infrastructure is an asset.
Skills and Competencies:
- Strong proficiency in SQL and Python, with solid understanding of database permissions, access control, and secure connection practices.
- Attention to detail in schema design, data structure planning, and documentation.
- Effective communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work independently or with researchers and students.
- Strong time management and organizational skills to prioritize tasks and meet project deadlines.
- Familiarity with version control and reproducible documentation practices.
- Problem‑solving skills and adaptability to evolving project needs, data challenges, and workflow requirements.
- Experience with web platform development is an asset.
How to Apply:
Interested candidates should email a resume and cover letter to chantel.chizen@usask.ca with the subject line “Application – Data Systems Specialist”.
Department: Soil Science
Status: Term 3 months with the possibility of extension
Employment Group: ASPA
Salary: The salary range, based on 1.0 FTE, is $53,091.00 - 82,954.00 per annum. The starting salary will be commensurate with education and experience.
Salary Family (if applicable): Specialist Professional
Salary Phase/Band: Phase 1
Posted Date: 9/23/2026
Closing Date: 9/30/2026 at 6:00 pm CST
Number of Openings: 1
Work Location: On Campus
The University of Saskatchewan aspires to be what the world needs and embraces equity, diversity and inclusion as foundational to excellence and innovation. We actively seek to create a welcoming environment where all individuals feel empowered to thrive, contribute, and grow. Applications from equity-deserving groups are encouraged as part of our ongoing efforts to reflect the diversity of the communities we serve: EDI Framework for Action.
We continue to grow our partnerships with Indigenous communities across the province, nationally, and internationally and value the unique perspective that Indigenous employees provide to strengthen these relationships. Verification of Indigenous Membership/Citizenship at the University of Saskatchewan is led and determined by the deybwewin | taapwaywin | tapwewin: Indigenous Truth policy and the Standing Committee in accordance with the processes developed to enact the policy. Successful candidates that assert Indigenous membership/citizenship will be asked to complete the verification process of Indigenous membership/citizenship with documentation.
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