Geographic Information Specialist III

Information Technology Services (ITS) in the Geographic Information System (GIS) Division is seeking a talented and motivated Geographic Information Specialist to join our team. As a Geographic Information Specialist, you will be responsible for maintaining the basemap layers in the enterprise geodatabase, updating special map products, creating new feature classes/datasets, and other duties as assigned. You will collaborate with cross-functional teams to create spatially enabled applications, conduct geospatial analysis, and enhance our geospatial data management systems. The ideal candidate will have a background in GIS technologies and a passion for leveraging spatial data to solve complex problems. 

The candidate will also ensure compliance with applicable policies, administrative codes, and statutes; update a permit database; and independently prioritize their assignments. They will perform highly complex (senior-level) geographic information system work. Work involves coordinating the input and manipulation of geographic information to create, maintain, display, update, and produce accurate maps and other data representations.

Work is performed under limited supervision from the GIS Manager & Data Reporting/Data Science Manager, with direction from the GIS Team Lead, and with considerable latitude to exercise initiative and independent judgment. 

• Research discrepancies in the basemap layers.
• Consult with other state agencies and external parties to acquire and validate data.
• Maintain enterprise feature classes/datasets.
• Maintain map templates and project files.
• Create, manage, and edit versions in the enterprise geodatabase.
• Incorporate data from various sources into the versioned basemap layers.
• Edit feature classes using ArcGIS Pro editing tools.
• Verify topology, attribute completeness, and consistency.
• Creates and modifies maps, graphs, or diagrams using geographic information systems (GIS) and related equipment.
• Digitizes and maintains spatial databases of relevant information, documents procedures, validates data for accuracy and completeness, completes approved metadata forms, and produces maps of the resulting information.
• Translate data from outside sources and convert data to assist users.
• Integrate spatial data from various sources and formats, including shapefiles, remote sensing, equipment data results, GPS data, and other external datasets.
• Expand your existing knowledge of GIS data formats, including GeoJSON, personal GeoDatabases, Shapefiles, KML, GeoTIFF, or other Open Standards to store GIS Data.
• Provides administrative and technical assistance related to permitting for the public, agency staff, and government and elected officials; answers questions and explains the impact of GIS datasets on permit regulations; and provides information relevant to permit processing, policies, and procedures.
• May work as a lead worker, providing GIS consulting and direction to others.
• Performs related work as assigned.
• May require some travel.

• Bachelor's degree in computer science, computer information systems, geography, geographic information systems technology, Geomatics, management information systems, or a related field. 
• Professional experience using Environmental Systems Research Institute (ESRI) GIS products including ArcGIS Pro, ArcGIS Online, ArcGIS and Enterprise.
• Progressive experience in creating, managing, and editing versions in an enterprise geodatabase.
• Experience in creating, managing, and editing versions in an enterprise geodatabase.
• Experience in building and maintaining projects in Python v>3.8+.
• Valid Texas Driver's License and good driving record.
• Education and experience may be substituted for one another on a year-by-year basis.

• Master's degree in computer science, computer information systems, geography, geographic information systems technology, management information systems, or a related field.
• Experience in Geodatabase analysis in a cloud environment such as Azure SQL Server. 
• Experience maintaining maps and enterprise feature classes/datasets.
• Working knowledge of GIS-based analytics and machine learning techniques.
• Experience in oil, gas, or pipeline regulatory functions. 
• Knowledge of the Railroad Commission's rules, policies, and procedures. 

• Working knowledge and understanding of locational/spatial data systems. 
• Proficiency in cartographic principles and data visualization techniques.
• Demonstrate understanding and ability to apply GIS concepts, theories, and principles. 
• Ability to write programs and develop user interfaces, menus, and macro-level commands. 
• Ability to effectively communicate regulatory information to a variety of audiences (verbal/written).
• Ability to take initiative and work independently. 
• Ability to work effectively on a team and collaboratively in a team environment. 
• Ability to address issues/concerns in a professional manner. 
• Ability to maintain working relationships and communicate technical concepts to non-technical internal/external stakeholders. 
• Ability to respond to high-pressure situations and meet changing demands and timelines.
• Ability to learn regulations and standards. 
• Proficient in the use of computer systems, utilizing Microsoft Office Suite and database systems. 
• Demonstrate excellent organizational, communication, and writing skills. 
• Knowledge of office practices; of administrative and technical procedures; and of applicable policies, administrative codes, and statutes. 
• Skill in the use of standard office equipment, computers, and computer software. 
• Ability to respond to public inquiries in a timely manner; to implement administrative and technical procedures; to interpret applicable laws, rules, regulations, policies, and procedures; and to communicate effectively.
• Problem-solving mindset and a passion for using GIS technologies to solve real-world challenges.