GIS Technician

GIS Technician

Under general supervision of the City Engineer or designee, The Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Technician assists in developing and maintaining the City's Geographic Information System and performs intermediate level work and technical support for GIS projects and the daily processing tasks that are assigned. Primary duties include input and editing of spatial and attribute data, conducting spatial analysis, and preparing maps using ArcGIS and other graphic software. The GIS Technician will perform a variety of technical and skilled tasks in the operation of the geographic information system (GIS) and associated peripheral equipment. Work assignments are usually broad in scope and involve the use of good judgment and accurate decision making. Performs other duties as assigned.

Essential duties and responsibilities include:

• Responsible for creation, editing, and maintenance of Geographical Information Systems (GIS) data. Includes data collection, input, and linkages to various databases/images for all city departments.
• Sound working knowledge of data creation, data processing, and map production, using any combination of ESRI's basic products and extensions.
• Capable of working with ESRI personal, file, and SDE geodatabases, including versioned geodatabase environment.
• Understanding of cartographic design principles and best map layout practices in order to create appealing maps that communicate effectively.
• Updates and maintains various GIS data, including but not limited to the street centerline, parcel, subdivision, zoning, and utility data. Inputs data from surveyor data, engineering plans, and subdivision plats. Assist with the maintenance of the City's Asset Management System.
• Support other departments with Location Maps, Buffer Notifications, and other maps. GIS maintenance of other software programs that require GIS data.
• Provide prompt and courteous service to the public and private developers for information requests concerning public utilities, pavement, and floodplain. Includes the ability to perform file transfers using City's FTP site.
• Maintain the collection of record engineering drawings (i.e., "as-builts") and filed plats in both physical and electronic formats. Inventory: index, cross-reference, link to GIS applications and prepare filed plats and "as-builts" for filing and scanning. Maintain appropriate scanning contracts as directed.
• Geocodes data files using GIS software.
• Conducts mapping research in the field and in the office. Resolves conflicting information and ensures the accuracy of the data.
• Performs Global Positioning System (GPS) field data collection.
• Must be skilled in the use of computer and peripheral equipment. Maintain plotters, wide format printers, and scanners.
• Communicate with software and equipment vendors regarding software, equipment, supplies, and service contracts that pertain to the GIS/Engineering staff.
• Foster teamwork and positively participates to build the GIS program.
• Required to report for work punctually, work all scheduled hours, and any required overtime as deemed necessary.
• Must maintain a physical condition and standards necessary for the proper performance of duties, with or without accommodation.
• Develop and maintain procedure manuals, metadata, and other continuity documentation for GIS Activities.
• Provide GIS training and assistance to City employees.

Skills, knowledge, and abilities include:

• Departmental procedures, policies, and rules.
• Principles and practices of GIS and Global Positioning System technologies and equipment.
• Principles and practices of urban planning techniques.
• Principles and practices of utility network data and systems.
• Principles and practices of surveying to include the subdivision of land, plat preparation and legal requirements and limitations.
• Ability to read and interpret survey notes, legal descriptions, maps, and construction drawings.
• Knowledge of local government operations.
• Standard business English, spelling, and grammar.
• Ability to review, classify, categorize, prioritize, and/or analyze data and/or information.
• Skill in effectively managing multiple projects, assignments, and duties.
• Skill in effective oral and written communications.
• Modern office procedures, methods, and computer equipment including word processing, database, and spreadsheet applications.
• Skills in current concepts, procedures, design methods and technologies in GIS, AutoCAD, GPS and other branches of the social sciences, natural sciences, and engineering.
• Requires the ability to perform coordinated movements, such as operating a computer terminal and printer and various office equipment.

Minimum education and experience requirements include:

• Bachelor's Degree or Certification in GIS, Geography, Planning, or related field.
• At least two (2) years of increasingly responsible experience in with ArcGIS, SQL Server, Geodatabase, Microsoft Office Products, Visual Basic and/or Python experience; or equivalent combination of coursework, education, and experience.
• Any combination equivalent to the education and experience likely to provide the required knowledge and abilities would be qualifying.
• Municipal work is preferred but not required.

Physical requirements/work environment:

• Majority of work is performed in an office setting.
• May be required to attend meetings in the evenings or weekends.
• May be subject to repetitive motion such as typing and vision to monitor.
• May be subject to occasional bending, reaching, kneeling, and lifting such as retrieving or replacing files, documents, and records.
• Must be able to lift and carry up to 35 pounds; climb stairs, sit for extended periods of time at computer or desk.