GIS Intern

GIS Internship Opportunity

This position will provide an opportunity for students to assist in the development and ongoing maintenance of City-wide Geographic Information System data by developing, creating, maintaining, editing, and updating spatial and non-spatial data. Under close supervision, this internship will utilize GIS data with various software packages to design, create, and update map-based outputs.

Essential Functions

The following duties are essential for this position. However, they are not to be construed as exclusive or all–inclusive. To be successful in this position, an individual must be able to perform each duty satisfactorily. Other duties may also be required or assigned.

• Update, edit, and maintain GIS datasets across multiple city departments, ensuring data accuracy, consistency, and alignment with operational needs.
• Design, build, and update GIS web applications using ESRI tools to support internal workflows, public engagement, and department-specific requests.
• Revise and produce static maps for city departments as needed, ensuring cartographic clarity, data integrity, and alignment with departmental standards.
• Prepare process documentation and user guides to support staff training, promote data governance, and ensure consistent use of GIS tools and applications.
• Perform large-format printing tasks for maps, exhibits, and presentation materials, maintaining print quality and managing production timelines.
• Execute additional duties as assigned, supporting departmental operations, cross-functional projects, and emerging GIS or technology needs.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Knowledge of:

• Geographic principles and geographic data.
• Basic cartographic principles.
• GPS and survey data.
• PLSS and land records documents and interpretation.
• Standard office practices and procedures including business English, business document format, spelling, grammar, punctuation, vocabulary, filing and math.
• Computer software including word processing, spreadsheet, database applications, accounting and specialized software consistent for this position.

Skill in:

• ArcGIS Pro, ArcGIS Online, Portal for ArcGIS, ArcGIS Experience Builder, ArcGIS Survey123, ArcGIS StoryMaps
• Operation of office equipment to effectively perform the duties and responsibilities of the position.
• Self-starting and being motivated with the ability to work independently.
• Being trustworthy and honest; taking accountability when appropriate.
• Applying problem solving, logic and reasoning to determine solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.

Ability to:

• Prepare a variety of documents including technical reports and maps with strong attention to cartographic principles and details, with ability to document procedures used.
• Handle multiple tasks at once and take on a diverse range of tasks.
• Be highly dependable with a history of consistent attendance and punctuality.
• Comprehend policies and procedures, written instructions, and general correspondence.
• Share appropriate information and support other team members.
• Demonstrate a consistent level of accuracy and thoroughness.
• Organize, schedule, prioritize and perform duties with limited supervision.
• Prioritize duties to accomplish a high volume of quality work product, meet deadlines, and improve overall department/office efficiency.
• Observe, follow instructions, and complete assignments accurately and within deadlines.
• Communicate effectively both orally and in writing with business representatives, elected officials, department heads, the public, and other City employees with courtesy and tact.
• Develop and maintain effective working relationships with staff and the public.
• Maintain confidentiality and discretion regarding information read or heard.
• Handle interruptions; combine routine workload with special assignments.
• Utilize a computer and required software.
• Work the required hours of the position.

Minimum Requirements & Physical Requirements

Minimum Education: At least an active Junior or Senior in an accredited undergraduate program or enrolled in a graduate program. Minimum Experience: Prior coursework in Geographic Information Systems. Other Requirements:

• Proficiency with ESRI ArcGIS software suite.
• Valid unencumbered Wisconsin driver's license and safe driving record.

Physical and Work Environment: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential duties and responsibilities of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Work is performed in a typical indoor office setting sitting at a desk in front of a computer.
• This work requires the occasional exertion of up to 25 pounds of force; work regularly requires sitting, frequently requires standing, speaking or hearing, using hands to finger, handle or feel and repetitive motions and occasionally requires walking, stooping, kneeling, crouching or crawling and reaching with hands and arms.
• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close, distance and peripheral vision; depth perception; and the ability to adjust focus and distinguish color.
• Acceptable verbal and conversation skills to effectively communicate with others in English.
• Ability to read and write English and interpret documents.
• Acceptable verbal and conversation skills to effectively communicate with others via the phone, at meetings and to greet and assist visitors.
• Frequent use of phone handset and repetitive use of hand & fingers to operate office equipment, use computer keyboard & computer mouse and to perform other office tasks.