GIS Intern

Door County serves nearly 30,000 year-round residents—along with a vibrant seasonal population—by delivering essential services that support the people, economy, and natural resources of the Door Peninsula. The Register of Deeds Department plays a vital role in maintaining accurate, secure, and accessible land and property records that support property ownership, planning, public safety, and informed decision-making.

We are seeking a Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Intern to support the County’s spatial data and mapping initiatives within the Register of Deeds Department. This position offers hands-on experience in maintaining and improving core GIS datasets, supporting map production and web-based applications, and contributing to data accuracy and integrity efforts that serve both internal departments and the public.

This internship is an excellent opportunity for a student or recent graduate to gain practical experience in public sector GIS operations while contributing to meaningful work that supports transparent, accurate, and efficient local government services.

Job Summary:

The GIS Intern supports the Door County Register of Deeds Office by performing entry-level geographic information systems (GIS) data maintenance, spatial analysis, mapping, and documentation activities. Under the direction and peer review of the GIS/Land Information Coordinator, the Intern updates and maintains spatial datasets, assists in map production, and contributes to the development of GIS workflows and web-based applications. This position provides practical experience in public sector GIS operations while supporting the County’s commitment to accurate land records, data integrity, and transparent public service.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

1. Update building footprint layers using 2025 orthophotography to ensure spatial accuracy and alignment with current parcel data.
2. Edit and relocate site address points to accurately align with building structures within their corresponding parcel boundaries.
3. Review and update zoning boundary layers to reflect current adopted zoning maps and amendments.
4. Evaluate and correct right-of-way (ROW) spatial layers, including identification and repair of topology errors such as gaps or holes.
5. Update shoreline layers using current imagery and available hydrographic data to maintain accurate boundary representation.
6. Review and update hydrographic features including ponds, lakes, rivers, and streams to improve spatial accuracy and attribute completeness.
7. Produce digital and print-ready maps in response to internal departmental requests, ensuring clarity, consistency, and adherence to County cartographic standards.
8. Develop and document GIS workflows, standard operating procedures, and metadata to support continuity, transparency, and long-term data management.
9. Create and configure applications within a cloud-based GIS environment (e.g., ArcGIS Online) to support internal operations and public information access.
10. Assist with updating and maintaining zip code boundary layers and other administrative boundary datasets.
11. Maintain organized records of work completed, including tracking of tasks and hours worked in accordance with County procedures.
12. Participate in onboarding and training activities, including orientation to the L:/Drive (DCAPS1), GIS datasets, ArcGIS Online environment, and departmental communication protocols.
13. Follow established GIS data flow processes, ensuring all edited layers are submitted for review and approval by the Land Information Officer.
14. Perform related duties as assigned consistent with the scope and intent of the position.

Key Competencies & Skills

• Basic knowledge of GIS principles, spatial data structures, and cartographic standards
• Proficiency or coursework experience with ArcGIS Pro
• Ability to interpret aerial imagery and digitize features with spatial accuracy
• Understanding of geodatabase management concepts and layer topology
• Ability to follow established workflows and apply quality control procedures
• Skill in documenting processes clearly and accurately
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to data integrity
• Ability to manage time effectively and meet project deadlines
• Effective written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work independently while receiving technical guidance and peer review

Required Education & Experience

• Current enrollment in or recent completion of an Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree program in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Geography, Planning, Environmental Science, or a closely related field
• Coursework or practical experience using ArcGIS Pro
• Basic understanding of spatial data editing and map production

Preferred Education & Experience

• Experience working with ArcGIS Online or other web-based GIS platforms
• Familiarity with local government GIS operations or land records management
• Experience creating GIS documentation, metadata, or workflow guides
• Prior internship or project-based experience involving spatial data maintenance