Job description
Job Code: 251081
Department: Biological and Environmental Sciences
Reports to: Dean of Biological and Environmental Sciences
FSLA: Exempt
Salary Range: Commensurate with qualifications and experience
Summary: The Department of Biology at East Central University (ECU) and the Oka’ Institute at ECU seeks qualified applicants for an Instructor in Geographic Information Systems. This position offers half load to include exemplary in-person teaching; curriculum planning, implementation, and evaluation; in coordination with the ECU-Oka Institute coordinating and conducting Institute directed research collaborations, GIS and remote sensing data analysis, modeling and other related activities.
Primary Duties and Responsibilities:
1. Teach undergraduate/graduate courses in Geographic Information Systems with potential to teach graduate and undergraduate electives or mentor research in their field. The hour load per semester expectation for this dual-appointment position is 6 hours of teaching load per semester (0.5FTE).
2. In addition to part-time teaching responsibilities, this dual-appointment position will support the Oka’ Institute’s applied research and environmental data initiatives, with a primary focus on the Juniper Evaluation Tool (JET) Phase II project (0.5FTE).
3. Applicants are especially encouraged to apply with the expertise to teach in the field(s) of:
• Geospatial Sciences
• Natural Resources or
• specialized data courses.
4. Required to work on scholarship (grant writing, research and publications).
5. FTE hours are evenly split from service to the department, college and university (to include recruitment/retention activities and advising students); and the Oka institute.
7. Must have a strong work ethic and lead by example.
8. Must be a professional, credible, and respected representative of the institution internally and in the community.
9. Demonstrated willingness and ability to act ethically and socially responsible.
10. Ability to communicate in a courteous manner.
11. Performs other duties as assigned by Department Chair and Dean of College of Health and Science or designee.
The omission of specific statement of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position.
Expected Skills
The successful candidate will demonstrate broad expertise in geospatial technologies and applied GIS. They will have access to advanced GIS software suites, digital mapping platforms, and fully equipped, university-supported computer laboratories. Their skills will aid in students entering and completing the undergraduate GIS certificate program and completing coursework at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. Instructional expectations include the ability to design and deliver in-person, hybrid, and online courses that align with program outcomes and accreditation standards. Candidates must be committed to fostering inclusive learning environments that support students from varying backgrounds and abilities. Experience with curriculum development, student assessment, and the integration of emerging geospatial technologies into teaching and research will be considered highly desirable. Additionally, half of the appointment performs assigned tasks and activities as directed by ECU-Oka Institute as GIS analyst.
Essential skillsets include:
Spatial Data Management (Collection, organization, storage, and quality control of geospatial datasets.)
Cartographic Design & Visualization (Application of cartographic principles for static, interactive, animated, and 3D map products.)
Spatial Analysis (Proficiency in techniques for evaluating change, distance, density, distribution, and complex spatial relationships.)
Geo-Programming (Ability to teach and apply programming languages (e.g., Python, R, SQL, JavaScript) for GIS applications, model building, and workflow automation.)
Database Development (Experience with relational databases, geodatabases, and cloud based data environments.)
Workflow Automation & Modeling (Skills in streamlining GIS processes, creating reproducible analysis pipelines, and integrating data across platforms.)
Experience with remote-sensing data workflows
Experience working with Google Earth Engine (GEE) for large-scale raster data processing
Experience working with LiDAR data, particularly for canopy height modeling
Experience with NAIP aerial imagery analysis.
Proficiency in vegetation indices (NDVI/EVI)
Experience with ArcGIS and AcrGIS Online for publishing, visualizing, and sharing spatial data products
Experience organizing, managing, and processing very large geospatial datasets (locally and in the cloud)
Knowledge of eastern redcedar and related woody encroachment issues in Oklahoma—including existing management practices and related state and federal programs
Candidates should also bring applied research experience that demonstrates the use of GIS across fields such as environmental systems, public health, or water resourcing and monitoring, with the ability to mentor students in independent or collaborative research projects. The successful candidate will contribute expertise in remote sensing, GIS, and large-scale geospatial analysis to advance Oka’s work in monitoring eastern redcedar encroachment, modeling watershed conditions, and developing data-driven tools for land and water stewardship across Oklahoma.
This role offers the opportunity to integrate academic research, high-impact student engagement, and real-world environmental applications in collaboration with tribal, state, and community partners.
The ECU Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences is a cross-disciplinary department containing multiple concentration programs including Ecology, Health Sciences, Molecular, Environmental and Natural Resources Management, Public Health, Clinical Lab Sciences and Teaching Certification at the undergraduate levels and a Master’s in Biological Sciences with additional optional concentrations in Water Science or Health Science is preferred. Our faculty pride themselves on the academic environment fostering a community of learning and support. ECU encourages faculty participation in high-impact student experiences such as research with the Center for Learning lab on campus, local access and support to the field sites including the Blue River as well as collaboration with local tribes. ECU is classified as a minority-serving primary undergraduate institute and carries a NASNTI Designation by the Department of Education.
The Oka’ Institute is dedicated to advancing water sustainability and fostering resilient communities through innovative research, education, and partnerships through effective strategies that meet local needs. Rooted in ECU, we provide practical solutions that address the complexities of water management while balancing environmental, economic, and social needs. Our efforts focus on four key areas: sustainable communities, land stewardship, water research and water planning. By integrating these pillars, we empower communities to protect their natural resources, enhance infrastructure, and ensure a sustainable future for generations to come. We are committed to educating the public and professionals about the economic, environmental and cultural importance of water resources. Our mission is to promote the use of science-based best practices for sustainable water management.
The successful candidate for this position will be expected to further ECU’s Mission and Vision to foster a diverse learning experience by providing an engaging, inclusive and supportive community of learning to elevate the student experience.
Minimum Qualifications
Required: Masters degree in Geography, Natural Resources, or related field is required. Demonstrated ability to teach effectively at the undergraduate and/or graduate level. Candidates with specialties in the field of GIS are especially encouraged to apply.
Preferred: Candidates with a Doctoral degree and a proven record of scholarly activities (including but not limited to publications, scientific presentations and grant writing); a demonstrated commitment to quality teaching both undergraduates and masters level students; a dedication to professional attainment; demonstrated ability to utilize instructional technology and a commitment to quality improvement.
Physical Demands
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. 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 sit and talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls. The employee is occasionally required to walk. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and the ability to adjust focus. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls. The employee is occasionally required to stand, walk, sit, and climb or balance. The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 10 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
Work Environment
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate. While performing the duties of this job, the employee occasionally works in outside weather conditions and is occasionally exposed to wet and/or humid conditions.
How to apply
Apply now
Special Instructions to Applicants
Employment is contingent upon on continued funding and successfully completing a criminal background check as mandated by East Central University. Official transcripts for positions which require a post-secondary undergraduate degree, advanced degree and/or certification must be presented upon hire.
East Central University, in compliance with all applicable Federal and State laws and regulations, does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, religion, disability, marital status, genetic information, or status as a veteran in any of its policies, practices, or procedures. This includes but is not limited to admission, employment, financial aid, and educational services. The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the non-discrimination policies: Employment Services Director, 1100 E. 14th St., Danley Hall 111, Ada, OK 74820, (580) 559-5260.
Please ensure you have completed the Equal Opportunity Data Form with your application.
