GIS Technician

Essential Job Functions  The duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to this class.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the following essential functions:

Under general supervision and direction from the CIO, this position performs routine to moderately difficult technical duties in the operation and use of the City’s Geographic Information System (GIS); maintains and updates layers of the GIS; collects, interprets, verifies and processes Geospatial data; prepares digital and hard copy maps and online services; configures, installs, maintains, and updates GIS related software; works on projects assigned by the CIO supporting technology implementations; assesses user training needs and trains users in effective use of applications as appropriate; and performs other duties as required.

1. Performs routine to moderately difficult GIS data maintenance, manipulation, analysis, extraction and generation assignment.
2. Performs GPS data collection, interpretation, field verification, processing and maintenance duties.
3. Organizes and stores GIS data in geodatabases and arranges for access by other users.
4. Research and input map and attribute data to construct geographic information systems; verify accuracy and correctness of data sources.
5. Prepares, designs, updates, and produces a variety of maps, including online web maps and applications, atlases, and other graphic representations displaying GIS data layers.
6. Develops and maintains spatial and geographical data layers using GIS and cadastral tools and databases
7. Incorporates maps, charts, data, and text into reports.
8. Assists in resolving and troubleshooting GIS-related problems and requests.
9. Prepares training materials and provides training to end users.
10. Manipulate database and map layers to produce customized reports, maps, exhibits, displays and other geographic data for a variety of city-wide requests.
11. Maintain electronic narrative (written) documentation relative to data input procedures, data structures, and work progress.

Any combination of experience and training that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be:

Education College level coursework in Geography, Geographical Information Systems, Computer Information Systems, Computer Science.
Experience  Two years of progressively responsible experience in the use and operations of GIS systems and applications.  Or  Two years of combined GIS Coursework and work experience.
Desirable   Possession of a GIS Certificate. Experience with CAD software. Experience with scripting in Python.
Licenses and Certificates:   Possession of a valid Class C California Driver's License with a safe driving record.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities  

     Knowledge of:

• Geographic information system concepts, practices and techniques, including Georeferencing, Digitizing, Data manipulation and Data analysis.
• Cartographic principles, design language, and the ability to make comprehensible, visually appealing maps.
• GIS software, tools and applications such as ArcMap, ArcGIS Pro or QGIS.
• Relational database concepts, methods and practices.
• Terminology, methods and techniques used in engineering maps and records.
• Data gathering and research skills.
• Use of word processing, spreadsheet and database software.
• Operating system fundamentals and procedures for the use of computer systems and related equipment.
• Troubleshooting, configuration, and installation techniques. 
• General principles of office automation.
• Business letter writing and record keeping principles and procedures.
• Techniques for providing a high level of customer service by effectively interacting with the public, vendors, and City staff.

• Utilize a variety of GIS software, computer-aided drafting, graphics and other applications to carry out assigned responsibilities.
• Independently perform difficult and responsible GIS assignments with initiative and creativity.
• Interpret maps, graphs, satellite and aerial images.
• Recognize and resolve discrepancies in attribute data.
• Prepare accurate GIS cartographic products.
• Communicate clearly and effectively, both orally and in writing.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with City management, staff and others encountered in the course of work.
• Read, interpret, and apply a variety of technical information (e.g. technical manual documentation).
• Install, configure, and troubleshoot software and business application systems. 
• Train staff on software applications and hardware usage. 
• Work with and maintain confidential and sensitive information. 
• Prepare clear and concise reports, correspondence, and other written materials. 
• Interpret, explain, and ensure compliance with City policies and procedures. 
• Establish and maintain a variety of filing, record keeping, and tracking systems. 
• Respond to and effectively prioritize multiple phone calls and other requests for service. 
• Organize and prioritize a variety of projects and multiple tasks in an effective and timely manner; organize own work, set priorities, and meet critical time deadlines. 
• Understand scope of authority in making independent decisions. 
• Review situations accurately and determine appropriate course of action using judgment according to established policies and procedures.
• Establish, maintain, and foster positive and effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
• Understand and carry out oral and written instructions.
• Work well and cooperatively with others.
• Provide excellent customer service. 

• Attention to detail.
• Strong technical, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Customer focus and dedication to customer satisfaction.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Strong initiative, self-motivation, and ability to complete tasks on time.
• Ability to work well in a fast-paced, team environment.
• This job operates in a professional office environment. This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, computer network servers and backup equipment, phones, photocopiers, filing cabinets and fax machines.