GIS Specialist

The purpose of this classification is to collect, produce, and maintain geographic information system (GIS) data in coordination with associated software systems to support the missions of assigned department and/or subject area(s).

The following duties are normal for this classification.  The omission of specific duties does not exclude them from the classification if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment for this classification.  Other duties may be required and assigned.  Specific duties listed may not be required for all positions within this classification, but are determined by the normal requirements for the particular position.

Performs data conversion and processing as needed to support GIS and related functions.  
Ensures that data complies with the needs of the assigned subject area(s) and ensures adherence to data standards as directed by the GIS Manager or assign.

Develops standards for metadata and attribute requirements. 

Ensures that spatial data meets metadata standards.

Performs data entry within GIS and related software/database systems.

Uses quality control measures to ensure that both input and output data are fit for their intended use.

Performs fieldwork related to collection, verification, and ground truthing of GIS data.

Designs and develops systems and databases for publishing geographic data.

Prepares various maps, reports, and other graphical representations using basic cartographic methods.  

Produces and maintains elements of map composition such as Esri map documents and layer definition files.

Coordinates with departments and external agencies to determine data needs, project requirements, and required outputs for assigned subject area(s).

Researches new data sources for use within the City's GIS.  Sources, obtains, formats, stores, and documents these data sets in accordance with GIS policy as set forth by the GIS Manager or assign.

Assists in GIS projects. 

Manages assigned project tasks with minimal supervision.  

Coordinates with internal project teams and external resources such as vendors as required by projects.

Works with customers within and outside of City government by handling data requests from public and private sector data consumers.

Maintains competency in assigned subject area(s). 

Obtains any necessary certifications and clearances, and maintains good standing. 

Trains on software, hardware and other systems related to assigned subject area(s).
 
Prepares and/or receives various forms, reports, correspondence, flow charts, or other documents; reviews, completes, processes, forwards, maintains, and/or takes other action as appropriate.

Provides education, training, information and assistance to users regarding GIS operations, procedures, problems, software functions, and other related issues.

Answers incoming calls; provides information, guidance and assistance; takes and relays messages and/or directs calls to appropriate personnel; returns calls as needed.

Communicates with supervisors, co-workers, users, other departments, and other individuals as needed to identify GIS needs, review options and costs, discuss work in progress, exchange information, resolve problems, and provide operational support.

Acquires a general understanding of the functions, procedures and workflow of City department as they relate to computer operations/support.

Maintains a working knowledge of a variety of operating systems and software programs to operate a computer in an efficient and effective manner.

Maintains an awareness of new products, trends, and advances in the profession; reads professional literature; attends workshops and training sessions as appropriate.

Performs 24-hour service as required; provides assistance to other employees or departments as needed.

Recommends policies and procedures that guide and support the provision of quality services by the department.
 
Incorporates continuous quality improvement principles in day to day activities.
 
Must accomplish the essential functions of the job, with or without reasonable accommodations, in a timely manner.
 
Must meet regular attendance requirements.
 
Performs other related duties as required.
 

High school diploma or GED required; vocational or technical school training in Geographic Information Systems preferred; one (1) year experience in map creation and maintenance and database creation and maintenance; or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience which provides the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities for this job.  Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license.

The following requirements are normal for this classification.  Specific requirements may not apply to all positions within this classification, but are determined by the normal requirements for the particular position.
 
DATA UTILIZATION:  Requires the ability to evaluate, audit, deduce, and/or assess data using established criteria. Includes exercising discretion in determining actual or probable consequences and in referencing such evaluation to identify and select alternatives.
 
HUMAN INTERACTION:  Requires the ability to apply principles of persuasion and/or influence over others in a supervisory capacity.
 
EQUIPMENT, MACHINERY, TOOLS, AND MATERIALS UTILIZATION:  Requires the ability to operate and control the actions of equipment, machinery, tools and/or materials requiring complex and/or rapid adjustments.
 
VERBAL APTITUDE:  Requires the ability to utilize a wide variety of reference, descriptive, and/or advisory data and information.
 
MATHEMATICAL APTITUDE:  Requires the ability to perform addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division; the ability to calculate decimals and percentages; the ability to utilize principles of fractions; and the ability to interpret graphs.
 
FUNCTIONAL REASONING:  Requires the ability to apply principles of rational systems; to interpret instructions furnished in written, oral, diagrammatic, or schedule form; and to exercise independent judgment to adopt or modify methods and standards to meet variations in assigned objectives.
 
SITUATIONAL REASONING:  Requires the ability to exercise judgment, decisiveness and creativity in situations involving evaluation of information against measurable or verifiable criteria.
 
PHYSICAL ABILITY:  Tasks require the ability to exert moderate, though not constant physical effort, typically involving some combination of climbing and balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, and crawling, and which may involve some lifting, carrying, pushing and/or pulling of objects and materials of light to moderate weight.
 
SENSORY REQUIREMENTS:  Some tasks require the ability to perceive and discriminate colors or shades of colors, sounds, odor, texture, and visual cues or signals.  Some tasks require the ability to communicate orally.
 
ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS: Essential functions are regularly performed without exposure to adverse environmental conditions.