IT/GIS Specialist

Job Description

Under the direction of the Director of Information Technology (IT) & Geographic Information Systems (GIS), this position is responsible for the daily administration of IT/GIS operations and office activities.  These responsibilities include, but are not limited to:  managing IT and computer systems; planning, organizing, controlling and evaluating IT and electronic data operation; designing, developing, implementing and coordinating systems, policies and procedures and ensuring security of data.  The incumbent also acts as a system administrator for Linux and Microsoft Windows platforms of the Utility’s computer network and is the main contact for the phone systems at Utility facilities. This position  may also work with GIS related open-source software and programs to create and maintain data and/or maps that can be combined with geographically referenced data. In this role, this position reviews, analyzes and evaluates GIS applications and procedures, makes recommendations, and prepares reports on the overall effectiveness of these operations. 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Installs, modifies, troubleshoots and repairs Utility computer hardware and software.
• Responds to help desk inquiries regarding computer software/hardware operations or “voice over IP” (VOIP) system to ensure user needs are met.
• Develops training materials and procedures; trains users in the proper use of hardware or software.
• Confers with staff, users, and management to establish requirements for new systems or modifications.
• Orders and maintains inventory of computer related supplies and equipment; coordinates repairs as needed.
• Makes recommendations to the Director of IT/GIS on hardware/software upgrades and changes to production methods, equipment performance, or working conditions to increase quality of products and efficiency of work performance.
• Prepares and maintains project schedules and reports as directed; establishes or adjusts work procedures to meet production schedules based on proficiency of staff and capacities of equipment.
• Maintains and monitors cyber security and all backup solutions.
• Maintains and enhances Kenosha Water Utility’s web presence.
• Designs, implements, administers and maintains GIS procedures.
• Creates maps and graphs, using open-source GIS software and related equipment.
• Meets with users to define data needs, project requirements, required outputs, or to develop applications.
• Supervises the database entry of information into computerized systems.
• Gathers, analyzes, and integrates spatial data and determines how the information can be displayed using GIS or how the geographic statistics can be incorporated into documents and reports.
• Compiles geographic data from a variety of sources (i.e., GPS field collection, satellite imagery, aerial photographs, and existing maps) and analyzes geographic relationships among varying types of data.
• Designs and updates open-source database, applying additional knowledge of spatial feature representations.
• Prepares metadata and other documentation.
• Operates and maintains GIS system hardware, software, plotter, color printer, and video camera.
• Ensures systems and networks are functional through observation, monitoring and specific routines.
• Attends meetings and training seminars to keep current with latest IT/GIS computer technology.
• Provides information to the Director of IT/GIS regarding interaction with other departments, agencies, contractors and the general public regarding GIS operations.
• Manages software licenses and maintenance support.
• Manages all mobile cell phones and agreements.
• Performs other related duties as assigned or required.

Required Education and Experience

• Minimum of an Associates Degree in computer science, geography, cartography, engineering technician or closely related field is required, although Bachelor’s Degree is preferred;
• Supplemented by a minimum of 4 years IT experience, preferably in a professional work environment which included GIS operations;
• Or an equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities. 

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Thorough knowledge of the following:
  • Open-source GIS software
  • Linux and Window Operating Systems
  • Programming – Python, SQL, Java, HTML, PHP
  • GPS/GIS hardware and software
• Knowledge of principles and applications of GIS including coordinate systems, aerial photography, videography, geo-referencing methods and satellite image processing.
• Working knowledge of the principles, applications, capabilities and installation of computer systems, database management, computer networking and printing operations.
• Skill in the use of GIS-related hardware and computing requirements and techniques.
• Ability to effectively communicate both orally and in writing.
• Ability to apply principles of logical or scientific thinking to define problems, collect data, establish facts and draw valid conclusions.
• Ability to interpret an extensive variety of technical instructions in mathematical or diagrammatic form.
• Ability to deal with several abstract and concrete variables.
• Ability to plan, assign, supervise and review the work of subordinates.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.
• Ability to maintain records and prepare reports.
• Ability to advise and provide interpretation regarding the application of policies, procedures and standards to specific situations.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, plans and reports.
• Ability to exercise independent judgment, initiative, resourcefulness and creativity in developing approaches and techniques to resolve problems.
• Ability to handle reasonably necessary stress.

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