3D Web Developer

Job Title: 3D Web Developer – Part-time*

Client: USGS GECSC

Location/Remote: Fully Remote

Travel: Possible travel to CO once a year

Clearance: Public Trust

Citizenship: US or Green Card / Permanent Resident – must pass a Background Investigation

*This position is for 700 hours to be worked between September 3, 2024 – September 30, 2025. There could be more hours added to the contract at a later date.  The hours will be set once the candidate is chosen and has time to review the project with the government team.   

Overview:

The USGS National Cooperative Geologic Mapping Program (USGS NCGMP) is the primary source of geologic information for the Nation, producing surface and subsurface geologic maps and a variety of digital data. Historically, geologic information has been released as USGS scientific information products through the USGS Publications Warehouse or as digital data releases through the USGS ScienceBase digital data repository. As digital datasets begin to predominate the USGS scientific information stream, there is an increasing need for purpose-built online viewers to allow USGS staff and the public to view and interact with geologic datasets.

The candidate shall perform the services and provide the support necessary for the development and enhancement of applications for the online viewing and interaction with USGS 3D geologic data and models. The application will be either modeled after existing simple online viewers of WebGL files or based on a modification of the Smithsonian Institute’s open-source 3D explorer and viewer “Voyager” and its related components — e.g., Explorer Application Programming Interface (API) and web services. The application will be integrated with USGS data repository systems such as USGS ScienceBase.

Major work tasks will be conducted in general sequence from simple to increasingly complex and include but are not limited to the following:

• Development of a detailed project and task plan to be coordinated with USGS NCGMP staff as the work begins.
• Development of a simple, unadorned viewer for 3D datasets similar to existing simple online viewers using JavaScript code and WebGL.
• Gain familiarity with the operation of the Smithsonian Institute’s open-source 3D explorer and viewer “Voyager” and its related components and develop the capability to modify the viewer for USGS use.
• Development of file conversion capabilities to take 3D models, possibly in a variety of input formats, and have the system convert to a standardized format (OBJ, GLTF, or GLB most likely) and create derivative models for different levels of detail in the display. Work with USGS NCGMP 3D user group to test 3D output from 3D modeling programs and develop a standard workflow from 3D model output to ingestion of standard format files in the 3D viewer.
• Integration of the 3D viewer with backend databases. Ensure compatibility of the viewer with data hosted on the USGS ScienceBase data repository, such that the viewer could call on data in standard format, such as GLB, that is hosted on ScienceBase. This step is a continuation of prototype work already done by USGS staff using Smithsonian’s Voyager within ScienceBase.
• Development of an easy-to-use content creation workflow for the processing of 3D model, mesh, and texture data by providing a simplified user interface.
• Development of an interface to allow users easy access to access the Smithsonian’s “Story” module to create scene files, add annotations, configure object view and lighting, and attach article (descriptive) content. It is likely that Story would be modified serve as a standardized metadata creation tool as well, such that 3D renderings are described and attributed with standard content.
• Coordination with the USGS Drupal team to ensure 508 compliance (already part of Smithsonian’s Voyager), adherence to USGS web formats and protocol; ensure that the online viewer interface is compatible with all major devices and functions on all browsers without any required plug-ins.
• Ensure that 3D viewer can be embedded in other USGS pages such as project websites, news feeds.
• Develop capability of the viewer to have an internally facing component, for review and revision of 3D datasets prior to approval and release, as well as a public-facing side for approved and final datasets.
• Once 3D viewer is fully functional, develop USGS web page for on-line viewing of 3D models in a web page with an embedded 3D viewer. Initially, it is anticipated that 3D models would be accessed within the web page as a series of thumbnail tiles (similar to the Smithsonian’s 3D collections https://3d.si.edu/collections). Ultimately, a 3D Portal web tool with a map-based interface or a list-based way to filter for models of interest would be desirable. Web page development is a secondary activity that would follow development of the 3D viewer as time and funding allowed.

The specific skills required include but are not limited to experience in 3D modeling, Git, and WebGL. Knowledge of the use of and conversion to standard OpenGL file formats such as OBJ, GLTF, or GLB. Knowledge of WebGL, render libraries such as threejs, Babylonjs, and JavaScript environments and experience with geospatial data. Knowledge of the Smithsonian Institute’s open-source 3D explorer and viewer “Voyager” highly desired.

A full understanding of data science techniques and principles, security requirements, USGS deployment guidelines (will be provided), effective distributed science data management techniques, and 508 requirements is required.

 About Inalab Consulting, Inc.

Inalab Consulting is a leading Small Business IT solutions and strategy consulting firm focused on providing solutions that transform enterprise operations in the government and commercial sectors by dependably bridging the gap between business strategy and technology. The company was founded in 2005 and is a privately held company headquartered in Fairfax, Virginia. We see technology as an efficient, economical means to an end, and are dedicated to crafting technical solutions that result in increasing interoperable, responsive, and cost-effective enterprises. We are totally focused on providing “Cost-effective Solutions” to our customers.

 Working at Inalab Consulting, Inc.

Inalab is a diverse, prosperous, and rewarding place to work. We provide our employees with competitive benefits, educational assistance, and career growth opportunities. Every employee is valued for their talents and contributions. We all take pride in helping our customers achieve their goals, which in turn contributes to the overall success of the company.

 Applicants selected may be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information. US citizenship may be required for some positions.

 With our company you will earn a highly competitive salary commensurate with your skill level and experience. You will also enjoy:

• Minimum of two (2) weeks annual paid time off.
• A comprehensive, company-paid medical, dental, and vision plan and life insurance.
• 401K plan with a vesting schedule for company added contributions.

 Inalab is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.