GIS SPECIALIST

Job TitleThis is a technical position in the Zoning, Planning and Land Information Department to develop and maintain spatial data along with utilizing paper and web-based medium to create multi-purpose maps. Employees in this position report to the Zoning & Planning Administrator. Employee works under minimal supervision, exercising judgment in accordance with established practice, laws and codes.Essential Leadership FunctionsAct with Integrity and Build TrustDemonstrate mutual respect, humility, and honesty in all interactionsSpeak up appropriately, even when expressing unpopular viewpointsActively listen and remain open-minded to diverse perspectivesDrive for ResultsSet clear goals and objectives to motivate self and others to achieve outcomesSeek new opportunities to improve processes and drive sustainable resultsHold self and others accountable through consistent evaluation and monitoringDevelop Talent and Effective TeamsFoster a collaborative environment that encourages knowledge sharing and growthProvide mentorship and support to help self and others reach full potentialRecognize and leverage diverse strengths within self and teamLead with Vision and StrategyUnderstand and communicate a compelling vision that aligns with organizational goalsDevelop and execute comprehensive strategies to achieve long-term objectivesConnect daily work to the bigger picture, inspiring self and others to contribute meaningfullyLead with Paradoxical, Critical, and Agile ThinkingNavigate complex situations by considering multiple perspectivesAdapt quickly to changes and uncertainties in the work environmentMake critical decisions using analytical skills, experience, and input from othersBuild and Maintain Effective RelationshipsCommunicate and collaborate effectively with stakeholders across the organizationInfluence others through coaching, consulting, and team-minded thinkingDevelop and sustain partnerships that create positive outcomes for all stakeholdersCultivate Community Engagement and Provide Excellent ServiceUnderstand and address the needs and concerns of the communityIncorporate community perspectives into decision-making processesDrive initiatives that create positive impacts beyond the organizationDemonstrate Emotional IntelligenceShow self-awareness and manage emotions effectively in challenging situationsSeek and respond constructively to feedback, even in the face of setbacksBalance empathy with accountability when leading self and working with othersEssential Job FunctionsFollows and helps develop standards of GIS data quality and integrity while evaluating, editing, and otherwise processing data.Manages and assists with the creation of land information data, projects and data collection processes between the County and various local governmental units and the private sector.Tests, fixes and performs post-resolution follow-ups on County staff and public service reports to ensure problems have adequately been resolved.Data and mapping projects include all standard County map layers used internally and by the public in paper and web form. On occasion the creation of specialized data, data analysis and map projects as needed.Works with the GIS Coordinator and the Land Information Council to review the County Land Information Plan and recommend projects related to the plan for grants through the Wisconsin Land Information Program (WLIP). Assists with the creation and maintenance of the State Searchable Format Parcel Layer provided to the WLIP once a year.Utilizes spatial data maintenance tools to interpret and enter legal description information into GIS parcel fabric and to determine validity of information for various requests. Indexes maps for cross referencing with legal descriptions, parcel numbers, zoning, overlay districts, school districts, emergency government and municipal boundaries.Utilizes appropriate scale for mapping during map production and ensures the County is using the current coordinates systems.Imports and converts mapping data from outside sources. Documents metadata, data origin, and data processing functions. Prepares and maintains a system of data collection processes. Creates data dictionary/domains for various Datasets.Assists local units of government, including County departments, in locating and documenting parcel identification information to ensure the proper methods are used for integration and compatibility of systems.In coordination with the GIS Coordinator, designs, develops, deploys, monitors, maintains, and provides application support for the County web maps, dashboards, and analytic solutions using ArcGIS Portal, Web App Developer tools and widgets, which may include issue resolution, training, and/or issue escalation. Assists in the development of best practices for any number of GIS tool or application deployments.Works with the IT department and the GIS Coordinator to update and maintain the GIS Server, GIS databases and Cloud solutions.Assists in the annual development of the Land Records budget for La Crosse County.Physical demands: large percentage of time is spent in office sitting at desk, reading, writing, using computer software/hardware, judgment and near vision. Sits, stands and bends intermittently throughout the day. Lifts and handles large books for researching records. A lesser amount of time is spent moving about the office. Uses drafting tools and devices, printers and scanning devices.Related Job FunctionsThis job description is not intended to encompass every job duty or responsibility but is only illustrative. This position is required to perform other duties as may be assigned or required.Knowledge, Skills and AbilitiesKnowledge of the Wisconsin Public Land Survey System (PLSS) and the ability to read and interpret land descriptions, and to incorporate them into an efficient mapping system.Considerable knowledge of manual materials and computerized equipment used in drafting of maps. Considerable knowledge of indexing or cross referencing of land descriptions.Knowledge of La Crosse County and its cities, villages and townships.Knowledge of resource data materials and aids in development and maintenance of an efficient mapping system. Considerable knowledge of desktop, web-based and server applications, particularly ArcGIS Pro, Branch Versioning and ArcSDE/SQL Server database functions.Considerable knowledge of database design and data analysis, computer hardware, operating systems (Windows), ArcGIS Desktop software, ArcSDE data repository, ArcGIS server application development tools, and related programming and scripting languages; SQL queries and Python Scripting.Considerable knowledge of cartographic design, map production, GIS modeling, surveying, and global positioning system (GPS), spatial reference systems (map projections, Datums, and Coordinate systems).Excellent understanding of the relationships of GIS and GPS and the knowledge of systems integration techniques, including effective problem-solving skills. Knowledge of standards/procedure development, implementations, and evaluations.Ability to work with the public and other employees in a team atmosphere. Ability to work with detail.Training, Experience and Other RequirementsRequires bachelor's degree in Geography, Earth Science, Cartography or related field, and two years' experience working with GIS/automated mapping experience with land descriptions, surveys, land titles or related.Training in use of ESRI products preferred.May consider other relevant combinations of education and experience that provide equivalent knowledge, skills, and abilities.