Jason Schatz

Climate & Conservation Technology

Santa Fe, New Mexico, United States

About

Technology leader and scientist focused on climate and conservation technology. I build teams and systems that translate complex earth science into scalable solutions, from earth observation to ocean conservation to carbon modeling.

Experience

  • Head of Data Science at Funga
    Jan 2026 - Present · 6 mos

    Leading the data science and engineering team at Funga to build carbon prediction models, geospatial pipelines, and ML infrastructure that drive scientifically rigorous and commercially scalable carbon sequestration, forest, and climate solutions.

  • Chief Technology Officer at SkyTruth
    May 2022 - Jan 2026 · 3 yrs 9 mos

    Lead engineering, science, and product teams developing cloud-native software, geospatial platforms, and machine learning-powered tools for environmental insight. • Managed a team of 15+ engineers, scientists, and product managers. • Oversaw multi-million dollar budgets and resource allocation. • Spearheaded the development of scalable technology solutions using modern cloud tooling. • Cultivated strategic partnerships with donors, media, and NGO stakeholders. • Implemented standardized hiring, mentorship, and career growth initiatives. • Represented SkyTruth in media, conferences, public forums, and fundraising. Products include: • cerulean.skytruth.org - Global maritime pollution monitoring • monitor.skytruth.org - Earth observation platform • 30x30.skytruth.org - Conservation progress tracker

  • Descartes Labs (Full-time · 5 yrs)
    • Manager - Applied Science
      Sep 2019 - May 2022 · 2 yrs 9 mos

      Promoted from Scientist to Manager in 2019. Built and managed a team of PhD scientists and engineers at the intersection of earth observation, AI, and supply chain monitoring. • Developed and scaled the company’s sustainability program to several million in annual recurring revenue. • Led development of pioneering earth observation and climate technology solutions, including global-scale models of forest cover, vegetation loss, biomass, and methane detection. • Managed client relationships with major multi-national corporations. • Directed technical development of AI-driven remote sensing tools for global environmental monitoring. • Designed and implemented a career ladder for technical staff, driving multiple promotions. • Interviewed and hired 30+ technical and cross-functional staff, shaping company growth.

    • Applied Scientist
      Jun 2017 - Sep 2019 · 2 yrs 4 mos

      • Delivered global-scale geospatial data solutions for multinational clients, including agro-ecosystem and supply chain models, using satellite imagery, machine learning, and cloud technologies. • Developed national-scale analytical platforms for crop yield modeling, land cover change detection, and supply chain intelligence. • Managed the full client lifecycle, from project scoping to delivery and support, for multinational corporations. • Led technical scoping and requirements gathering sessions with clients. • Designed and maintained cloud pipelines for efficient data processing and delivery.

  • Environmental Epidemiologist at New Mexico Department of Health
    Oct 2016 - Jun 2017 · 9 mos

    Conducted in-depth analyses of the linkages between environmental hazards, community vulnerabilities, and public health outcomes, with the goal of informing and improving public health interventions across New Mexico. Synthesized complex data into clear, concise reports and outreach materials for diverse audiences, including government agencies, legislative bodies, and the general public.

  • Co-founder and President at Green Dubuque
    Jun 2007 - Aug 2014 · 7 yrs 3 mos

    Co-founded and led a community non-profit that transformed Dubuque, IA (pop 60k) into a sustainability leader. Key wins include a 50% GHG reduction target for the city, a >$70 million upgrade to an anaerobic digestion/methane capture water treatment plant, and a White House Climate Action Champion designation by President Obama (tinyurl.com/3ljhhn8s).