Senior GIS and Planning Specialist

$53,435 - $60,362/Yr

MISSOULA COUNTY PLANNING, DEVELOPMENT & SUSTAINABILITY DEPARTMENT - Missoula, MT

Full-time - Mid Level

Missoula, MT

About the position

The Senior GIS and Planning Specialist plays a crucial role in the development, maintenance, and utilization of geographic information systems (GIS) within the Missoula County Planning, Development & Sustainability Department. This position involves technical and professional work in data collection, analysis, and public engagement, ensuring the effective representation and management of geospatial data to support community planning and development initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Develops, updates, and maintains geospatial data using GIS software.
• Consults with department staff, public officials, and the public to identify geospatial data needs.
• Performs complex analyses of spatial and tabular data specific to project demands or requests.
• Creates and documents methodologies for verifying results of analyses.
• Evaluates data to ensure validity, reliability, and appropriateness.
• Develops graphic representations of geospatial data, including maps, charts, and infographics.
• Produces written reports and responds to requests for data and maps from various stakeholders.
• Develops and maintains online map applications and data dashboards for public access.
• Creates online mapping and data applications to support public engagement.
• Attends meetings, makes public presentations, and represents the department.
• Leads or supports project teams in planning and development, providing data analysis and graphic representation.
• Works closely with public officials and agencies to develop and maintain geospatial data.
• Develops geospatial metadata documenting data resources.
• Provides training and support for staff and volunteers on GIS technologies and GPS equipment.
• Researches new technologies and makes recommendations for software acquisition and implementation.
• Collects geospatial data from various sources, including field collections and research.
• Coordinates with other offices to establish geographic information standards and protocols.
• Manages complex projects related to land use capacity, community resource mapping, and demographic analysis.
• Assists in preparing community planning documents and growth policy updates.
• Issues information to the public regarding zoning and land use regulations.
• Coordinates with management to write department policies and procedures.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in geography, cartography, environmental studies, computer science, or GIS.
• Three years of experience in researching, analyzing, and creating graphic representations of geospatial data.
• Experience with Geographic Information Systems and map creation is required.
• Applied GIS experience in planning, parks, and community development fields is preferred.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience with GIS scripting languages such as Python.
• Familiarity with data management and visualization software like Power BI.
• Knowledge of land surveying techniques and GPS technologies.
• Experience with 3D mockup tools such as SketchUp or Revit.
• Proficiency in Adobe applications such as Illustrator, InDesign, and Acrobat.

Benefits

• Competitive salary range of $25.69/hour - $29.02/hour based on qualifications.