GIS Analyst

Job Description

Job Class: GIS Analyst

FLSA Status: Non Exempt

Effective Date: August 2026

Definition

Performs a variety of professional level work in the analysis, design, programming, testing, and maintenance of the District’s Geographical Information System (GIS); creates and maintains databases; and produces a variety of maps and graphical presentations by manual and automated means.

Distinguishing Characteristics

This is a journey level classification, fully competent to independently perform a variety of specialized technical duties related to the development, planning, designing, organizing and maintenance of the District’s GIS. Incumbents are expected to be familiar with a diverse set of procedures and situations. Employees at this level receive only occasional instruction, assistance or direction as new or unusual situations arise and are fully aware of the District’s operating procedures and policies.

Examples of Essential Duties

The following duties are typical for this classification. Depending upon the assignment, the employee may not perform all of the listed duties and may be required to perform additional or different duties from those below to address business needs and changing business practices. Management retains the right to add, remove, or change duties at any time.

• Oversees the District’s Enterprise GIS platform including maintaining updated water and land facilities; performs quality control on data download processes; and manipulates data from outside sources for use in the GIS.
• Analyzes data and prepares associated reports/maps for use by appropriate department.
• Recommends and assists in the implementation of GIS goals and objectives; works to establish schedules and methods related to the use of AutoCAD and GIS Standards.
• Implements and develops procedures for use of GIS functionalities; prepares related protocols and provides training to a variety of GIS users.
• Plans, prioritizes, assigns, supervises, and ensures accuracy of the work of staff involved in duties supporting the District’s GIS system and mapping functions.
• Manages the GIS division’s budget, including preparation and administration; preparing cost estimates; submitting justifications for staffing, equipment, and supplies; monitors and controls expenditures.
• Participates in the selection of staff; and provides or coordinates staff training in the uses and operations of GIS applications.
• Prepares written protocols for difficult and complex GIS system and database usage, including troubleshooting protocols.
• Coordinates and integrates GIS functions with other departments, other agencies/jurisdictions, engineers, developers and the public.
• Prepares requests for proposals (RFPs) for GIS services and products. Assists with the selection of outside vendors and consultants. Provides oversight and direction to outside vendors and consultants and monitors their performance.
• Analyzes, reviews, modifies, and ensures accuracy of complex mapping and data requests utilizing required spatial and/or GIS tools; performs scripting and/or programming.
• Coordinates with Information Technology (IT) Department to ensure network connections to GIS server; make related recommendations.
• Designs and/or modifies GIS programming as necessary to accommodate the needs of a variety of users; verifies accuracy of digitized data to ensure accuracy and quality of automated information.
• Provides advanced technical support to end users.
• Maintains regular attendance and adheres to prescribed work schedule to conduct job responsibilities.
• Builds and maintains positive working relationships with coworkers, other District employees and the public using principles of good customer service.
• Performs related duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

Knowledge of:

• Basic mapping and civil engineering (reading and interpreting records drawings/plans).
• GIS system concepts and analytical techniques, including computer mapping and digital data conversion, manipulation and analysis
• Basic operating principles, parameters, methods, practices and limitations of computer platforms and networks.
• Principles and practices of systems analysis and design applicable to GIS programs.
• Application development methods, tools and utilities applicable to the GIS system.
• Object-oriented programming languages (e.g., Java scripting, Python).
• CAD principles, techniques, equipment and software.
• Principles and applications of GIS, GPS and other engineering software, including ESRI-based GIS software and its applications and related programming languages.
• Postgres, MS SQL Server and other database applications.
• Modern office methods, procedures, and equipment including common office computer software and database programs, including the Microsoft Suite of Programs (Word, Excel, Outlook, Access, and PowerPoint).

• Principles and practices of supervision, training, and performance evaluation.
• Principles and practices of budget preparation and monitoring.
• Principles and practices of project management and contract administration.
• Principles and practices of good customer service and work safety.
• Techniques and principles of effective interpersonal communication.
• English usage, spelling, grammar and punctuation.

Ability To:

• Plan, prioritize, organize, implement and direct staff assigned to support the District’s GIS system and perform mapping functions.
• Collect, interpret, and integrate geographic and facilities data from multiple sources.
• Read, interpret and analyze record maps, construction drawings, graphs, satellite and aerial images and geographic conditions; perform spatial analysis and other related data used for mapping and design.
• Understand, use and apply relational database management systems, tools, and techniques.
• Diagnose, research, and resolve problems with GIS databases, applications, software and hardware and initiate corrective action; prepare accurate GIS cartographic products and other outputs.
• Perform complex professional work in support of the District’s GIS program, including the preparation of written protocols for complex GIS system/database usage.
• Design, develop, modify and maintain GIS databases and applications.
• Independently perform responsible GIS assignments with initiative and creativity.
• Make neat, accurate drawings and basic arithmetical calculations accurately.
• Present, display and explain complex information and data to a variety of end-users and audiences.
• Understand and follow instructions.
• Interpret legal descriptions, deeds, maps and design drawings.
• Make area computations and related angular calculations.

• Prepare a variety of reports and maintain accurate records/files.
• Develop and recommend policies and procedures related to GIS program.
• Operate a computer for word processing, database, and department specific software.

• Communicate clearly and concisely, both verbally and in writing.
• Supervise, train, and evaluate staff.

• Establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with coworkers, outside agencies, vendors, consultants/contractors and the public.

• Pass pre-employment physical, drug testing, and background check.

Experience and Education:

Experience :

Three (3) years of experience in GIS design, operations, and automated mapping systems with at least two (2) years in a lead position providing technical and functional supervision over assigned staff.

Education :

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in GIS, Cartography, Geography, Information Systems, Systems, Engineering, or related field.

Four (4) years of qualifying experience in addition to the experience requirement identified above may be substituted for the educational requirement.

License and/or Certificates :

• Valid Driver’s License issued by the California Department of Motor Vehicles and proof of good driving record as evidenced by the absence of multiple or serious traffic violations or accidents for at least two (2) years duration. The driving record will not contribute to an increase in the District’s automobile rates. Individuals who do not meet this requirement due to a physical disability will be considered for accommodation on a case-by-case basis.

Working Conditions and Physical Demands

The conditions herein are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential job functions.

• Travels occasionally by automobile in conducting District business.
• Communicates orally with District management, coworkers and the public in face-to-face, one-to-one and group settings.
• Regularly uses a telephone and email for communication.
• Regularly uses office equipment such as computers, copiers, postage and fax machines.
• Sits or stands for extended time periods.
• Ability to carry, reach and lift supplies and equipment weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to push, pull and maneuver supplies and equipment of varying weights and configurations.
• Hearing and vision within normal ranges with or without correction.
• Occasionally may be required to change working hours or work overtime.

The specific statements shown in each section of this class specification are not intended to be all-inclusive. They represent typical elements and criteria necessary to successfully perform the job.