Data Scientist

CSS/RPI is seeking qualified candidates to manage, restore, and optimize three scientific databases to support long-term scientific integrity, collaboration, and public access to harmful algal bloom data at the Hollings Marine Laboratory in Charleston, SC.

Experience Required:

• Experience with data engineering, data management, or scientific data systems.


• Proficiency in SQL and at least once scripting language (Python or R preferred) to build data pipelines, visualize data, and integrate within a federal cyberinfrastructure.


• Experience with data standards.


• Demonstrated experience with image processing and spatial data workflows (eg ArcGIS).


• Ability to implement an effective data quality assurance process, data optimization, and documentation procedures.


• Read, scope, author, and/or execute code of varying degrees of complexity for automation of data production, analysis, and distribution.


• Strong organizational skills, time management, and ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment.


• Effective team contributor with excellent interpersonal skills.


• Capable of working independently to meet project objectives and timelines.

Highly Desirable Experience:

• Experience with ecological /environmental datasets and marine monitoring programs.


• Familiarity with data sharing platforms (ERDDAP, OBIS).


• Experience modernizing legacy systems.


• Demonstrated ability to work individually and as part of a team; highly effective interpersonal skills, as well as strong written and verbal communication competencies.

Phytoplankton Monitoring Network (PMN) Database:

• Centralize and standardize disparate PMN datasets in a unified structure for archiving into ERDDAP.


• Develop and maintain scripts for automated data transfer between data platforms.


• Align datasets with Darwin Core standards to support data sharing.


• Coordinate with NCCOS and NCEI to advance the development of a GIS enabled data dashboard.


• Ensure PMN data integrity through accurate documentation, version control, backup, and quality control/quality assurance processes.


• Develop and maintain metadata standards to meet federal data quality requirements.

Analytical Response Team (ART) Database

• Restore and modernize legacy database systems (MS Access/SQL-based systems)


• Migrate data to a sustainable and scalable platform.


• Implement governance practices to ensure data integrity through documentation, file backup, and quality control.

Intergovernmental Panel on Harmful Algal Blooms (IPHAB) Toxins Database

• Coordinate with Ocean Biodiversity Information System (OBIS) to incorporate PMN data.


• Create data pipelines for automated data transfer between PMN and OBIS/IOC platforms.


• Support international data harmonization and interoperability efforts.

At CSS, we are committed to fostering an inclusive and merit-based workplace. We provide equal employment opportunities to all individuals, ensuring that hiring and employment decisions are based on qualifications, skills, and performance. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.