Senior GIS Analyst

Job Summary

Assists the Planning & Resource Management and Transportation Services Divisions in collecting, organizing, and managing data that can be used to analyze business operations, inform long-range plans, and mange physical assets, primarily in the areas of transportation, public works, natural resources, and land management. Performs complex analysis and technical duties necessary for the development and maintenance of the County Geographic Information System (GIS) and related programs. Creates and maintains data and maps, builds GIS applications, and provides guidance to other employees and users. Runs database reports and queries to obtain performance benchmarks and indicators in coordination with the county's Delivering What Matters (DWM) initiative.

Job Description

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

• Develops and maintains GIS applications using programming skills in JavaScript, ASP, ActiveX, Python, and XML within a Visual Studio development environment; develops and maintains Internet and Intranet applications using GIS data; develops and provides GIS integration into other county systems and applications using XML. 

• Leads the development and implementation of a long-term work plan to maintain an integrated, mature, and functional data management culture in the division to support the prioritization of capital and operational programs primarily in the areas of transportation, public works, natural resources, and land management.

• Analyzes and assists in the development, creation, and maintenance of geographic and attribute databases; manages and manipulates geographic and graphic data and related attribute data for use in appropriate GIS applications; coordinates the exchange and conversion of GIS data with other county departments and divisions, outside agencies, and the general public.

• Responsible for GIS computer system administration, including installation and maintenance of GIS software programs and upgrades; evaluates and recommends hardware and software purchases and upgrades; keeps abreast of new developments in trends and technology in GIS for possible usage within the county.

• Meets with and provides business analysis to business units to promote GIS opportunities, strategies, and plans; analyzes databases, data, email, files, and folders of all business units in order to spatially enable and visualize the information. 

• Works with field personnel to design and administer primary data collection systems, methodology, and quality control work processes.

• Creates and runs database reports, maps, and queries to obtain data for the division's key performance benchmarks and indicators in coordination with the county's DWM initiative.

• Make presentations to various groups and departments to promote GIS.

• Provides customer services to the public and internal customers.

• May participate in the IT on-call service that provides after hour service to county-wide critical systems.

• Works the hours and/or shifts assigned and begins and ends work on time.

• Performs other related duties as required or assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Equivalency of a bachelor's degree in GIS, Geography, Computer Science, or related field and three years of progressively responsible experience in geographic information systems and computer operating systems. A reliable form of transportation for the performance of work responsibilities is required.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATION(S)

Preference given for experience with ESRI GIS software.

SUPERVISORY CONTROLS

The employee is under the general supervision of the Planning and Resource Management Director or the Administrative Services Director. Assignments are made orally or in writing and consist of general goals and objectives with an approximate time schedule. An employee in this class independently resolves problems. Work is reviewed upon completion but is periodically spot-checked during progress.

CORE COMPETENCIES AND ABILITIES
Customer Service - Delivers government services in a respectful, responsive, and solution-oriented manner.

Communication - Is always clear about what we're doing and why we're doing it.

Collaboration - Works with partners – communities, schools, faith groups, private business, and non-profit agencies – to see that services are not duplicated but rather are complimentary, aligned, and provided by the partners who can deliver the service most effectively.

Stewardship - Works proactively to make investments, guided by resident input, which will transform lives, communities, and government.

Empowerment - Works with individuals and families to affirm strengths, develop skills, restore hope, and promote self-reliance.

Resiliency - Fosters public preparedness and responds when families and communities face health and safety emergencies.

Innovation - Takes informed risks to deliver services more effectively and learns from successes and failures.

Knowledge – Knowledge in the theory of GIS development and operations.

Knowledge of computer operating systems.

Knowledge of ArcGIS Desktop, ArcGIS Server, ArcSDE, and ArcView GIS software in a Windows environment.

Knowledge and programming skills in application development with JavaScript, ASP, ActiveX, Python, and XML within a Visual Studio development environment.

Knowledge and ability to create and manage applications using GIS software for Internet and Intranet applications.

Knowledge of coordinate systems and projections.

Knowledge of the principles and practices of the US Public Land Survey System in Minnesota.

Abilities – Ability to work with multiple database programs (Access, SQL, etc.).

Ability to work independently without close supervision and manage multiple priorities.

Ability to deal tactfully and efficiently with internal and external customers.

Ability to understand and follow complex oral and written instructions.

 Ability to speak, present, and interact in public arenas with composure, professionalism, and discretion.

Ability to use MS Office software for the performance of essential duties.

Ability to use appropriate discretion in dealing with matters of a confidential nature.

WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS
Typical characteristics of the regular, ongoing work environment of this position requires inside work, typically in an office setting.

Physical activities include sedentary to light work: Reaching, sitting, standing, walking, pushing, lifting, pulling, fingering, grasping, feeling, stooping, talking, hearing, seeing, and repetitive motions. Lifts and/or navigates up to 35 pounds on a routine basis in handling files and equipment necessary for performing the essential duties of the job.    

SELECTION PROCESS

Selection for this position will be based on a minimum qualifications screening and rating of training and experience. Top candidates will be forwarded to hiring manager or supervisor for consideration for interview and/or additional assessments. Final selection will include a background check and approval by the County Board.