GIS Specialist

Job Description

Department: Information Technology

Reports To: Information Technology Director
Pay Grade: 15
FLSA Classification: Exempt
Approved by: Human Resources
Revision Date: January 1, 2018

SUMMARY
Under general supervision, the GIS Specialist leads, coordinates, and monitors the City’s Geographic
Information System (GIS) activities; coordinates the development of the GIS systems and database
according to City goals and objectives, and assures the integrity and security of the database.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

 Assures the integrity, security, and effective performance of the GIS Program database(s).
 Develops GIS applications and web apps in ArcGIS in support of City goals; coordinates and prioritizes
GIS development projects with other City departments, alliances and outside agencies; plans
development projects to assure GIS projects meet objectives; evaluates trends, anticipates problems,
and reports on performance and status of GIS projects.
 Generates ad-hoc and custom maps, disaster assessment reports and/or maps for FEMA, as requested
by City departmental staff and the general public.
 Develops and maintains a City-wide training program to further the knowledge base of spatial
information and appropriate outputs.
 Creates and maintains emergency response data, centerline and address point data, emergency 911
schema and data for RRRDC.
 Creates, collects, updates, and maintains GIS databases; development of component layers and
structure of spatial data; acquire, collect, exchange, share and integrate digital data; coordinates the
continuous development, operation and maintenance of the GIS, create geoprocessing models and
python scripts for daily updates, including components of the system database system hardware and
software.
 Serves as subject matter expert on GIS; assures effective communication of GIS system issues; analyzes
problems and recommends solutions to meet standards and guidelines; prepares special and recurring
reports and proposals for work projects, contracts, and GIS development plans.
 Maintains City-wide parcel database; compiles geographic data from a variety of sources; scans,
rectifies, and digitizes data, edits and refines GIS data, and updates database; performs quality control
checks to assure data integrity.
 Oversees the maintenance of the control points used for registering geographic data; determines and
establishes quality control standards for GIS data layers for City departments and other agencies;
develops procedures to reduce system errors and enhance system functionality and stability;
coordinates special projects with City departments.
 Evaluates and recommends new software, hardware and peripheral equipment; develops and monitors
work procedures, policies and plans.
 Supports the relationship between the City and the constituent population by demonstrating courteous
and cooperative behavior when interacting with clients, visitors, and City staff; enthusiastically
promotes the City goals and priorities in compliance with all policies and procedures.
 Maintains absolute confidentiality of work-related issues, client records and City information.
 Works safely, follows safe work practices, and identifies and reports unsafe work conditions.
 Performs other duties as required or assigned.

An individual in this position must be able to successfully perform the essential duties and responsibilities
listed below. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform
the essential functions of this position.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
 Requires education equivalent to a Bachelor’s degree in geography, computer science, planning,
engineering or a closely related field.
 Requires four years of experience in developing and managing a GIS database.
 An equivalent amount of education and/or experience is acceptable.
 Requires a valid driver’s license.
 Requires knowledge of GIS/ESRI software and application programming languages.
 Ability to create and maintain effective working relationships with peers, superiors, other City
departments, vendors, contractors, external government agencies and organizations.
 Strong communication skills, both orally and in writing.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
 Experience within local government or similar agency.
 GIS professional certification.

PHYSICAL AND MENTAL DEMANDS

This position requires the incumbent to work in a fast-paced environment, with the ability to meet frequent
deadlines. While performing the duties of this job, the incumbent must regularly sit and talk or hear. The
incumbent is frequently required to use hands to touch, handle or feel. The incumbent is occasionally
required to stand and walk. The incumbent may be required to occasionally perform a full range of motion
with lifting and/or carrying items weighing up to 25 pounds. The mental and physical requirements
described here are representative of those that must be met by an individual to successfully perform the
essential functions of this position.

WORKING ENVIRONMENT
Work is performed in a standard office environment. The noise level in the work environment is usually
moderate. The incumbent may be required to travel to job sites or locations. The work environment
characteristics described here are representative of those an individual encounters while performing the
essential functions of this position.

I have read and understand the duties, responsibilities, and requirements for this position. *
Employee’s Name (please print) Employee Signature Date

*This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an "at-will"
employment relationship. The City of West Fargo retains the discretion to add duties or change the duties
of this position at any time.