Student Technical Assistant - Data Science

Hiring Organization: Department of Forestry Michigan State University
Employment type: Part-Time
Job Location: East Lansing, MI
Application Due Date: March 21, 2026

Position description

The MSU Forestry GOES Lab is looking for a responsible and skilled Student Technical Assistant to support data processing using machine learning for mapping tree crowns, tree cover and biomass from remote sensing satellite data.

Primary Duties

Run existing models mapping tree crowns, tree cover and biomass from remotely sensed data
Fine-tune models for mapping tree crowns, tree cover and biomass
Develop machine learning training samples using GIS software

Requirements

Must be enrolled MSU student who is eligible for student employment

Preferred skills (we will provide training)

Data science background and experience
Experience with using the computing infrastructure of the MSU Institute for Cyber-Enabled Research (ICER) High-Performance Computing Center (HPCC)
Experience with GIS and spatial analysis
Highly organized and detail oriented
Experience with data management

Compensation

Wage is commensurate with experience, minimum of $15.00/hour, for up to 29 hours per week.

Time Frame

Work will be available starting immediately and through the summer 2026, with possible extension through fall 2026.

Working Conditions

The position involves work on computers in a typical office environment.

Location

Computer workstation available in the GOES Lab in Room 101 of the Manly Miles Bldg.

To Apply

Apply via Handshake by searching for Job #10768075 or email to Jay Samek at samekjay@msu.edu with “GOES Lab Data Science Position” in the subject line.
Include a CV/resume, a brief cover letter outlining your interest in the position and relevant experience as well as your dates of availability, and at least one professional reference with contact information (including email and phone number).

Deadline

Applications will be considered until the position has been filled. Applicants are encouraged to apply as early as possible.

The College of Agriculture and Natural Resources (CANR) at Michigan State University (MSU) is committed to achieving excellence by creating and sustaining an accessible and inclusive culture that values cultural and academic diversity. MSU is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. The CANR is particularly interested in candidates of all backgrounds who are committed to the principle that academic excellence is achieved through open access and proactive inclusion.