GIS Specialist
Harris CountyPosition Description
What you will do at Harris County Precinct 2
The GIS Specialist will be responsible for the development, implementation, and management of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to support the Risk Management and Emergency Management functions within Harris County. This role will involve analyzing spatial data, creating detailed maps, and ensuring that GIS systems are effective, accurate, and used to support critical decision-making processes during emergency events, risk management activities, and long-term planning.
Duties and Responsibilities:- GIS Development & Management
- Design, develop, and maintain GIS systems to support emergency management and risk mitigation.
- Implement GIS data layers for critical infrastructure, medical facilities, fuel stations, and other areas relevant to emergency response.
- Collaborate with department heads and stakeholders to identify GIS data needs for operational and strategic use.
- Integrate GIS systems with other county systems for accurate, real-time emergency and risk assessment information.
- Data Analysis & Mapping
- Analyze spatial data on hazards, risks, and infrastructure to create informative maps and reports.
- Maintain and update GIS databases to ensure accuracy and alignment with current conditions and strategic goals.
- Perform geospatial analysis to aid decision-making and resource allocation in emergency planning and risk management.
- System Support & Maintenance
- Regularly maintain and troubleshoot GIS systems for optimal performance.
- Monitor and update GIS layers to ensure data accuracy and relevance.
- Provide technical support and guidance for GIS users within the department.
- Collaboration & Coordination
- Partner with other county departments (e.g., Engineering, Public Safety, Environmental Services) to ensure GIS alignment with countywide objectives.
- Coordinate with external agencies for compatibility and shared GIS resources.
- Deliver GIS training and guidance to department staff as required.
- Reporting & Documentation
- Prepare reports, maps, and visual presentations for senior leadership and external stakeholders.
- Maintain detailed documentation of GIS systems, processes, and updates for compliance and reference.
Harris County is an Equal Opportunity Employer
https://hrrm.harriscountytx.gov/Pages/EqualEmploymentOpportunityPlan.aspx
If you need special services or accommodations, please call (713) 274-5445 or email ADACoordinator@bmd.hctx.net.
This position is subject to a criminal history check. Only relevant convictions will be considered and, even when considered, may not automatically disqualify the candidate.- GIS Development & Management
Requirements
Education:
- Bachelor’s degree in Geography, GIS, Cartography, Computer Science, or a related field from an accredited college or university
- Minimum of three (3) years of experience working with GIS technology
- Experience with GIS software (e.g., ArcGIS, QGIS) and associated tools for data analysis, visualization, and system management.
- Proficient in MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook)
- Proficient with Human Resources Information Systems (PeopleSoft)
- Excellent communication skills (verbal & written)
- Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships and foster teamwork in a diverse environment
- Ability to maintain confidentiality when dealing with sensitive information
- Ability to work well with the public and staff members
- Must use your personal mobile device for our Multifactor Authentication process
- Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills
- Knowledge of HR, risk management, budgeting, and finance principles
- Ability to manage complex projects and multitask
- Strong proficiency in GIS software and spatial data analysis techniques
- Knowledge of geospatial data formats and conversion processes
- Familiarity with emergency management principles and risk analysis
- Excellent communication skills to work effectively with various teams and stakeholders
- Ability to troubleshoot and resolve technical GIS issues
- Attention to Detail: Ability to maintain high accuracy in mapping and data management tasks
- Problem Solving: Ability to quickly identify and address GIS-related issues, especially in critical or emergency situations
- Project Management: Strong organizational skills to manage GIS projects and meet deadlines
- Collaboration: Ability to work cross-functionally with other departments and external partners
NOTE: Qualifying education, experience, knowledge, and skills must be documented on your job application. You may attach a resume to the application as supporting documentation but ONLY information stated on the application will be used for consideration. "See Resume" will not be accepted for qualifications.
Preferences
Experience:
- Strong preference for applicants who have GIS technology experience in emergency management, risk management, utilities/public works Infrastructure or a related field (preferred)
- Professional licensing such as certified geographic information system professional (GISP) (preferred)
General Information
Position Type and Typical Hours of Work:
Full-time | Monday - Friday | 40 Hours per week.
This may include weekends, holidays, and requirement to work during emergency disasters.
- 1310 Prairie, Houston, TX 77002
Reporting Relationships
- Reports To Position: Manager - Risk Management
- Supervises Positions: None
Work Environment and Physical Demands:- This job operates in a clerical, office setting. This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, filing cabinets and fax machines. Noise level in the work environment is usually average.
- This is largely a sedentary role; however, some filing is required. This would require the ability to lift files of up to 50 lbs, open filling cabinets and bend or stand as necessary.
Employment may be contingent on passing a drug screen and meeting other standards.
Due to a high volume of applications positions may close prior to the advertised closing date or at the discretion of the Hiring Department.